Transcript Highlights:

• </c> they are not facing any eminent threat they are not facing any eminent threat nor<01:19:30.719><
• His leadership has been marked by intelligence-driven crime reduction and a collaborative approach to
• The threat to officer safety is clear.
• This bill will shine a light on the threats that law enforcement face, threats that have steeply risen
• Speaker, I yield back. law enforcement face, threats that have law enforcement face, threats that have

Bills: HB2240 , HB2255

Keywords: law enforcement, police, officer safety, officer wellness, violent attacks, ambush attacks, assaults on police, anti-police violence, public safety, Department of Justice, Attorney General, FBI, National Institute of Justice, Uniform Crime Reporting, UCR, NIBRS, Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted Data Collection, LEOKA, bulletproof vests, Patrick Leahy Bulletproof Vest Partnership

Transcript Highlights:

• SB 239, Arreguín, criminal threats, do pass out on an A roll call.
• SB 1106, Cabaldon, artificial and agentic artificial intelligence, holding committee.
• SB 813, McNerney, artificial intelligence standards, due pass as amended to remove contingency language
• SB 813, McNerney, artificial intelligence standards, due pass as amended to remove contingency language

Committee: House Appropriations

Transcript Highlights:

• Moody: about what DPS paid, but I wonder how much it cost police in Illinois after the bomb threat against
• Moody: but what does it cost when it's sent as a threat to someone's home?
• Cole: 17th, costs of the Intelligence Counter Division tip line and OSINT operations which were not directed

Committee: House House Administration

Transcript Highlights:

• And so our threat environment has changed.
• So in 1959 there was no threat like there is now.
• And so our than our current threat.
• </c><00:24:00.240><c> And</c><00:24:00.400><c> one</c> threat environment has changed.
• And one threat environment has changed.

Summary: The committee took up an amended bill, sponsored by Rep. Lily Walsh, aimed at requiring certain foreign principals involved in New Hampshire real estate transactions to file an affidavit electronically with the Department of Justice. Walsh explained that she revised the proposal after the first hearing by limiting it to leases longer than 14 days, removing notarization, allowing electronic filing, shortening notification timelines, and clarifying that lessors or agents would not have to verify the affidavit’s truthfulness. She asked the committee to recommend the bill ought to pass with amendment and also noted a technical correction to use “real estate licensee” rather than “realtor.” The main opposition came from a real estate practitioner on the committee, who argued the bill was burdensome, could create discrimination concerns, and would place real estate professionals in an improper enforcement role. He also questioned the bill’s practical effect and pointed to existing federal CFIUS procedures as a better mechanism for handling foreign investment concerns. Several members echoed concerns about whether the state had authority to regulate in this area, whether the bill would actually stop bad actors, and whether it could be enforced without discriminatory impacts. Representatives from New Boston Space Force Station testified in support, saying the legislation was critical to national security because proximity to the installation could allow adversaries to observe operations or interfere with radio frequency communications. They argued federal processes were too slow or ineffective and that state action could better push hostile actors away from the base. Committee members questioned the technical basis for the 10-mile buffer, whether it would really help, and why federal agencies were not handling the issue. No vote was taken during the exchange shown in the transcript.

Transcript Highlights:

• Senate Bill 5956 relates to artificial intelligence, student discipline, and surveillance in public schools
• Senate Bill 5956 relates to artificial intelligence, student discipline, and surveillance in public schools
• territory here, and I suspect that this is one of many bills that we will be hearing on artificial intelligence
• It doesn't prevent schools from responding to real threats.
• stories like that of Chin and our long history in the state and country, we will continue to be seen as threats

Summary: The committee first heard Senate Bill 5901, which would change the school construction assistance program so that instructional space on military bases is excluded from a district’s available space inventory when calculating state construction aid. Staff explained the bill would also require state assistance to equal approved project cost minus federal funding received. Senator Christian said the measure is intended to prevent military-base facilities from unfairly reducing districts’ ability to modernize or build schools. Testimony in support came from OSPI, Clover Park School District, and Medical Lake School District, which said the current formula penalizes districts serving military families and can leave them unable to secure needed renovation funding. No opposition was heard, and the bill was later described as having an indeterminate fiscal impact. The committee then took up Senate Bill 5860 on school board compensation. The bill would raise director pay from $50 to $100 per day, increase the annual cap, allow child care expenses to be reimbursed, require OFM to periodically adjust compensation, and direct WASDA to develop finance training for school directors. Senator Cortez said the changes are needed to broaden who can serve on school boards and to help working families participate. Supporters from OSPI, WASDA, and South Sound superintendents said compensation could improve diversity and help recruit and retain board members, though WASDA noted concerns about diverting district funds and said its members do not have consensus on mandatory training. Opponents argued the bill would misuse levy funds and that child care and other expenses should not be paid from local education levies. The committee also heard Senate Bill 5956 on artificial intelligence, student discipline, and surveillance in schools, which would bar automated systems from being the sole basis for discipline decisions, prohibit risk scores and biometric surveillance, require OSPI guidance updates, and direct WASDA to create model policy. Senator Nobles and supporters said the bill is needed to protect students from discriminatory and inaccurate AI-driven decisions; no vote was taken in the hearing. Finally, the committee heard a proposed substitute for Senate Bill 5574, which would require districts to include instruction on Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander, Latino American, and Black American history in required social studies courses during the regular curriculum review cycle, with reporting beginning in 2030. Senator Nobles said the bill is meant to address exclusion and bias in history education and to help students see themselves reflected in the curriculum. Testifiers from education, student, parent, and community groups overwhelmingly supported the measure, saying it would improve belonging, reduce bullying, and build on existing curriculum resources without creating a new course or major new cost. The hearing ended without a vote or other formal action on SB 5956 or SB 5574.

Transcript Highlights:

• Rapid advancement of generative artificial intelligence has made it possible to manipulate images, videos
• comments that were made by the resource witnesses, which this bill addresses the use of artificial intelligence
• It's one of the most pressing threats to election integrity today, the use of artificial intelligence
• at least to us in terms of prosecutions, because you cannot imagine how frustrating it is to get a threat

Bills: HB 13 , HB143 , HB144 , HB145 , HB366 , HB470 , HB805 , HB912 , HB13 , HB143 , HB144 , HB145

Committee: House State Affairs

Keywords: emergency communication, infrastructure, first responders, grant program, interoperability, Texas Interoperability Council, local governments, HB 143, Texas Railroad Commission, Public Utility Commission of Texas, Natural Resources Code, oil and gas, well site, surface facility, electrical power line, National Electrical Code, NEC, electrical safety, utility disconnect, service disconnection

Transcript Highlights:

• I like some of the ideas I've heard so far about intelligence, using these intelligent programs, maybe
• I like some of the ideas I've heard so far about intelligence, using these intelligent programs, maybe
• The ITS is intelligent; that is a fascinating option as well.
• There's a lot of focus in Texas, and rightly so, on our homeland security threats, threats to critical
• Of course, I think that poses a threat to public safety.

Committee: Senate Transportation

Summary: The committee first heard opening remarks on its interim charges: rail grade crossing safety, autonomous vehicle deployment, and commercial driver’s license oversight. Members emphasized transportation’s importance to safety, mobility, and the economy, and the chair outlined the plan to take invited testimony first on each charge, followed by public testimony. For the rail grade crossing charge, TxDOT’s Don Franks described implementation of SB 1555, the Texas Off-System Rail Grade Separation Program, including rules, applications, and awards. He said 36 local governments submitted 57 applications requesting about $2.3 billion against the $250 million state program, and TxDOT awarded $160.4 million to five projects in four districts. He also explained that the state set aside remaining funds as federal match, helping Texas secure nearly $756 million in federal FRA funding for 12 projects, bringing the total value of the rail crossing projects to more than $1.2 billion. French Thompson of the Texas Railroad Association supported continuing the program, said the demand far exceeded available funding, and recommended maintaining the $250 million investment while also considering other mitigation tools such as siding relocations and digital traffic-routing solutions. Members asked about how projects were selected, how success should be measured, blocked crossings, maintenance responsibilities, and whether railroads should share costs. Franks said projects were chosen based on safety, economic development, mobility, readiness, community support, and match leverage, and said future success should be measured by reduced crashes and fatalities at treated crossings and by getting projects to construction within about three years. Thompson distinguished between occupied and blocked crossings and said railroads are working on capacity, communication, and alternative solutions. He and Franks explained that railroads maintain crossing equipment, while the public can report malfunctions using the blue ENS sign. Public testimony on rail grade separations included support from the North Houston Association, Bay Area Houston Transportation Partnership, and Texas Rail Advocates for continued and expanded funding, while Rhonda Ward argued taxpayers should not subsidize railroad infrastructure and said railroads should bear more of the cost. The committee then closed testimony on the rail charge. The committee next took up autonomous vehicle deployment under SB 2807. Clint Thompson and Corey Thompson of the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles explained the new authorization system for Level 4 and Level 5 automated motor vehicles used in commercial passenger or freight operations. Clint Thompson described the differences between SAE levels, the requirement for an authorization in addition to title, registration, insurance, and other credentials, and the need for a first responder interaction plan filed with DPS. He said DMV adopted rules, built a web-based application system, and began accepting applications in April, with enforcement beginning after the statutory rulemaking timeline. He reported 16 companies currently hold authorizations, including both passenger and freight operators, and said the department uses existing staff and its motor carrier credentialing system to administer the program. Corey Thompson then showed how law enforcement and the public can verify AV authorizations through the DMV’s truck stop database, which displays company status, vehicle information, and related motor carrier credentials where applicable.

Transcript Highlights:

• With advances in artificial intelligence, it is becoming easier and cheaper to clone voices and fabricate
• That is a threat to justice itself.
• That is a threat to justice itself.
• first responders can safely carry out their responsibilities without interference, harassment, or threats
• with a threat and not just hope and wait for help to show up.

Bills: HB372 , HB414

Committee: Senate Judiciary

Summary: The committee heard several bills focused on public safety, courts, and family law. House Bill 141, with House Amendment 1, would require the Department of Safety and Homeland Security to create a firearm responsibilities notice for firearm purchasers through licensed dealers, covering Delaware gun laws, safe storage, lost/stolen reporting, straw purchases, suicide prevention, and other safety responsibilities. Testimony from the NRA, Delaware State Sportsmen’s Association, Moms Demand Action, the Coalition for Safer Delaware, and Delaware State Police was uniformly supportive, emphasizing education, standardized dealer practices, and potential evidence for straw-purchase prosecutions. No committee questions were raised, and the bill was moved forward after public comment. House Bill 326 would create a new offense for theft by impersonating a family member, aimed at scams involving spoofed calls, texts, or online messages that pressure victims to send money. The sponsor described the bill as a response to increasingly sophisticated fraud enabled by artificial intelligence, and noted that a House amendment removed an original mandatory minimum jail term, leaving sentencing to the courts. No public testimony was offered on the bill. House Substitute 1 for House Bill 150 would prohibit civil arrests inside courthouses and certain Department of Labor proceedings, with the sponsor arguing that such arrests deter people from coming to court or seeking protection; the bill would allow criminal arrests and civil arrests only with advance written notice. No testimony was taken on that measure. Senate Bill 284, the First State Emergency Responders Act, would create a narrowly tailored offense for intentionally approaching within 25 feet of first responders at emergency scenes after crossing a barrier or ignoring warnings, if done to interfere, threaten, or harass. Supporters, including police, fire service, and sportsmen’s groups, said it would protect responders and preserve emergency operations, while the Office of Defense Services opposed it on First Amendment and overbreadth grounds, arguing existing laws already cover much of the conduct. Senate Bill 304 would amend Delaware’s safe school zone law to allow private schools to use trained, vetted sentries or similar security arrangements; supporters said it would give smaller private schools an affordable safety option, while the sponsor said the bill needed more work and should not move forward yet. The committee also heard Senate Substitute 1 for Senate Bill 314, which would clarify how courts handle evidence that a sexual assault complainant previously made a false allegation; DOJ and ODS said the substitute reflects a consensus approach, and YWCA Delaware supported it as a survivor-protective reform. Finally, Senate Bill 343 would expand methods for serving child support respondents in Family Court by authorizing service through certified mail and carriers such as USPS, UPS, and FedEx, addressing cases where people avoid in-person service using doorbell cameras and other technology. The Division of Child Support Services supported the bill as a practical update that would improve timeliness while preserving proof-of-delivery safeguards. At the end of the meeting, a motion was made and seconded, and the chair adjourned the session.

Transcript Highlights:

• and celebrating SB 53 as one of California's leading accomplishments in the area of artificial intelligence
• see, if this is one of California's signature leadership efforts by the governor in artificial intelligence
• Built by state staff for state staff, Poppy acts as an intelligent assistant to automate routine tasks
• Poppy acts as an intelligent assistant to automate routine tasks, support information discovery, and
• To that end, we're requesting $91.1 million to do some things to combat those threats.

Summary: The subcommittee heard May Revision proposals from the Department of Food and Agriculture, the Government Operations Agency, the Department of Technology, and the Franchise Tax Board, with public comment to come later and all items held open. CDFA presented funding for the animal care program implementing Proposition 12, including a one-time $5.2 million General Fund transfer to the Ag Fund and $2.8 million ongoing, and the LAO recommended approval while noting the Legislature should revisit the funding once litigation and federal preemption questions are resolved. CDFA also proposed ending state oversight of industrial hemp and moving to the federal USDA program by January 1, 2028, with an $8.3 million General Fund transfer to cover startup and transition costs; the LAO supported the transition. Additional CDFA items included $204,000 ongoing and one position to preserve agricultural statistics reporting after USDA reorganization, and trailer bill changes to clarify the department’s 5% indirect cost cap; both drew no objections from Finance or LAO. The Government Operations Agency and Cradle to Career items focused on implementing the new federal Workforce Pell program. Finance described trailer bill language establishing state eligibility processes, with the California Student Aid Commission as the authorizing entity in consultation with the Workforce Development Board, and proposed $1.3 million one-time General Fund for Cradle to Career to build data linkages. The LAO urged caution because federal rules were just finalized and said more information was needed on workload, costs, and whether existing data systems could support the work. Senators raised policy concerns about limiting the program to public institutions and about aligning the proposal with broader workforce and labor goals. The committee also briefly discussed SB 53/Cal Compute, with GovOps saying no appropriation had been provided for its consortium work, and Finance saying the administration was not proposing funding at this time. The Department of Technology presented a $30 million operational backstop for the Middle Mile Broadband Initiative, intended to cover any shortfall if expected revenues from the Golden State Net third-party administrator do not materialize in time. The LAO initially recommended rejection over broad spending authority, then suggested amendments with stronger reporting and legislative review; committee members questioned the revenue assumptions, oversight, and whether the request could recur. CDT also sought $1 million for Poppy, the state’s GenAI digital assistant, to expand secure statewide use; the LAO had no concerns, and members asked about data security, model bias, training restrictions, and possible local-government use. Finally, FTB proposed realigning CalFile resources after the federal Direct File program was discontinued, retaining three ongoing positions and returning the rest of the funding and positions to the General Fund; the LAO said the reduced scope was reasonable, and members discussed keeping the free filing system user-friendly and ready for future federal changes. The committee also heard the administration’s digital pre-written software tax proposal, which would extend sales tax to electronically delivered software and SaaS beginning January 1, 2027, generating an estimated $450 million General Fund in 2026-27 and $900 million ongoing, plus local revenue. The LAO supported modernizing the tax base but recommended broadening the proposal to include more digital products while considering a business-use exemption or reduced rate, and flagged a newly added video game exemption as a revenue downside. Senators generally supported the goal of raising revenue and aligning California with other states, but questioned the local revenue distribution and equity effects, and one senator said they would not support expanding the tax to books, music streaming, and similar consumer products. All items were left open without votes.

Transcript Highlights:

• This grant program is created in the Department of Commerce for artificial intelligence technology that
• This grant program is created in the Department of Commerce for Artificial Intelligence Technology that
• They are already, in that circumstance, feel under threat from the federal government.
• What this bill will do is add additional threat. Feel under threat from the federal government.
• What this bill will do is add additional threat from either the Attorney General or from a private right

Summary: The Ways and Means Committee met in executive session on March 2, 2026, and worked through two large groups of bills, hearing staff briefings, caucusing, and then voting each measure out to the Rules Committee. In the first group, the committee advanced bills on state accounts (HB 2675, with an amendment creating an adult day service facilities account), immigrant worker protections (2SHB 2105, after adopting a striker and Amendment 8 while rejecting amendments that would have changed enforcement and private rights of action), voting rights compliance (E3SHB 1710, with all proposed amendments rejected), AI content provenance and notices (E2SHB 1170, with Amendment 19 adopted to exempt state/local/tribal governments and certain video-game and technical uses), public official protections (2SHB 233, with a technical amendment adopted), WOTEC civil service coverage (HB 2249), JLARC work plan changes (HB 2120), LEOFF Plan 1 termination/restatement (E2SHB 2034, with several amendments adopted including creation of a pension surplus holding account and study directives, while proposals to redirect funds to the Climate Commitment Act or provide a lump-sum payment were rejected or withdrawn), supplemental retirement bargaining (HB 1069, with a striker adopted), port employee retirement exclusions (EHB 2179, with a striker adopted), local government revenue flexibility (ESHB 2442, with Amendment 72 adopted to remove a county public utility tax and other amendments rejected), wildfire mitigation funding (SHB 2089), and timberland REET changes (HB 1983). The committee also noted that it would not take action on some items in the packet, including SHB 1833. In the second group, the committee advanced bills on local housing tax remittance programs (ESHB 1717), renewable energy tax incentives and grants (E3SHB 1960, with a striking amendment adopted that adjusted rates, timing, and related provisions), nonprofit fundraising hall property tax relief (HB 2431), food bank sales tax relief (SB 6006), local tax increment financing (E2SHB 2451), temporary staffing services for nonprofit behavioral health entities (SB 6297), school and child care-related sales tax exemptions (SSB 6351, with a substitute adopted and the competing amendment made out of order), behavioral health work group extension and leadership council creation (2SHB 2429), Working Connections Child Care changes (SB 6353, with Amendment 43 adopted), language access guidelines for state agencies (SHB 2475), unpaid wage recovery (2SHB 2479), firearms background check fee authority (HB 2521, briefed but not acted on in the portion provided), public employee information sharing (HB 2091, briefed but not acted on in the portion provided), and Office of Independent Investigations jurisdiction changes (ESHB 2508, briefed but not acted on in the portion provided). Throughout the meeting, members and staff discussed fiscal notes, implementation costs, and whether amendments would increase or reduce state impacts, with several amendments aimed at narrowing scope, delaying implementation, or shifting enforcement and funding responsibilities.

Transcript Highlights:

• So though it's not stated as artificial intelligence, because that's a little bit broad, they definitely
• But if, for the comfort of everyone, we wanted to add artificial intelligence explicitly stated as such
• But if for the comfort of everyone that we wanted to add artificial intelligence explicitly stated as
• That threat becomes intense and the emotion, the response.
• And then when you take that even further, that threat, their response to that threat could be either

Committee: House Children and Families

Transcript Highlights:

• Is that a promise or a threat?” “Yeah. A promise.” “Promise. I promise.” “Okay.
• Is that a promise or a threat?” “Yeah. A promise.” “Members, any questions?
• But anyway, they want to strip you and anybody else of intelligent choice, an intelligent person, in
• I'd be forbidden to put a roof on her house, and the consumer should be able to make intelligent choices
• While bigger companies, to a certain extent, can fight these lawsuits, the mere threat of litigation

Bills: HB2963 , HB3005 , HB3287 , HB3288 , HB3289 , HB3290 , HB3344 , HB3712 , HB3862 , HB3874 , HB4196 , HB4308 , HB4901 , HB4984

Committee: House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development

Keywords: digital equipment, repair rights, manufacturers, maintenance, consumer rights, construction contracts, payment regulations, public works, dispute resolution, audit procedures, construction, trust funds, mechanic's lien, contractor, subcontractor, residential properties, disputes, payment obligations, accountability, payment disputes

Summary: The committee heard testimony on several bills related to technology, construction, economic development, and consumer protection. HB 3862 would restrict minors’ access to certain social media apps and limit smartphone use in classrooms; supporters, including Champions for Childhood, argued that smartphones and social media contribute to addiction, distraction, depression, self-harm, and trafficking risks, and the bill was left pending. HB 3712 would change Texas retainage rules so owners could not withhold payment on specially fabricated construction materials once they are delivered, approved, and warranted; subcontractors and suppliers said current retainage practices delay payment for years and create financial risk, and the bill was left pending. HB 2963, the right-to-repair bill, would require manufacturers to provide parts, tools, and information for independent repair of digital devices, with exemptions for medical devices, vehicles under existing agreements, and trade-secret protections; consumer, environmental, business, and repair advocates supported it, while Safelite asked that automotive manufacturers not be excluded from the bill, and it was left pending. HB 4308 would create county industrial development districts to attract major employers and finance infrastructure through local elections and bonds; Fort Bend County supported it as a tool to add jobs and broaden the tax base, and it was left pending. The committee also heard HB 3344, which would create a licensing system for re-roofing contractors, require insurance and bonding, and establish a public database and complaint process. Supporters said it would help curb storm chasers and protect homeowners after storms, while opponents argued it would add burdens on legitimate small roofers, duplicate existing fraud laws, and potentially restrict consumer choice and contractor pricing flexibility. After extensive testimony and questions, the bill was left pending. HB 4196 would create a task force on modernizing manufacturing through digital integration and automation; Schneider Electric and the Texas Workforce Commission supported it as a way to improve competitiveness and create skilled jobs, and it was left pending. HB 3874 would require contractors to receive copies of incorporated contract documents before signing if requested; subcontractors and construction attorneys said it would improve transparency and prevent parties from being bound by unseen terms, and it was left pending. In pending business, the committee voted out several bills. HB 74, creating the Port Verde Port Authority District, was reported favorably to the full House without amendment. HB 112, relating to a science park in certain counties, was reported favorably as substituted. HB 2214, on floodplain notice requirements for leased dwellings, HB 3016, on rental vehicle damage waivers, HB 3133, on explicit deepfake material on social media, HB 3173, on workforce development program planning and evaluation, HB 3807, on child care waiting list priority for children of certain child care workers, HB 463, on unilateral memoranda of contract for residential property, HB 4115, on shareholder proposals to certain domestic corporations, and HB 5008, on use of the Skills Development Fund by certain entities, were all reported favorably, most without amendment and some as substituted. HB 2652, creating a certified caregiver pilot program in the Borderplex workforce area, was also reported favorably and sent to the Committee on Local and Consent Calendars.

Transcript Highlights:

• I think it's really easy for us, as a society, as Americans, to dismiss the true threat that cyber threats
• Like it's an invisible threat. How do we educate the public?
• Like it's an invisible threat. How do we educate the public?
• It's a great threat. You said it perfectly.
• It's a great threat. You said it perfectly.

Committee: Senate Appropriations Committee on Higher Education

Summary: The committee held its first meeting of the session and received an overview of the Higher Education Appropriations budget from staff director Tim Elwell. He explained the committee’s broad jurisdiction over universities, state colleges, district workforce programs, vocational rehabilitation, blind services, student financial aid, private colleges, and the Board of Governors, and reviewed key budget concepts such as local funds, funds per FTE, performance funding, and the distinction between the total appropriation and the recurring base budget. He noted that higher education is funded largely through state and local sources, with substantial flexibility compared with other state budgets, and that the base budget is heavily weighted toward lump-sum allocations to the public systems. The committee then heard a presentation from the University of South Florida’s Florida Center for Cybersecurity (Cyber Florida), led by retired Marine Gen. Frank McKenzie and USF representative Mark Walsh. They described Cyber Florida as a statewide cybersecurity platform created by the Legislature in 2014 to support education, research, workforce development, public policy, and community engagement. McKenzie emphasized the growing cyber threat environment, Florida’s leadership role, and several funded initiatives, including K-12 outreach, workforce training, a cyber range for county governments, critical infrastructure assessments, grant development, and public conferences and outreach. Members asked about public cyber awareness, the lack of a national cyber defense strategy, school district participation in Cyber Launch, and which counties are most at risk; McKenzie said smaller counties with limited cybersecurity staffing are generally more vulnerable and offered to provide follow-up information. Finally, the committee heard from the Florida Center for Students with Unique Abilities at the University of Central Florida, led by Dr. Drew Andrews, along with program and parent representatives from participating institutions. Andrews explained the center’s role in coordinating Florida’s postsecondary comprehensive transition programs for students with intellectual disabilities, supporting program development, distributing grants and scholarships, and monitoring outcomes. He reported that the state now has 33 approved programs at 35 institutions, including universities, state colleges, and technical colleges, and that scholarship and grant funding has grown significantly. He said student retention is about 88 percent, many graduates are employed, and median hourly earnings have increased over time. A representative from Southeastern University described how the center’s support helped build and sustain SEU Link, including a new third-year employment-focused option for students.

Transcript Highlights:

• This is a report for the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence. Thank you.
• This is a report for the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence.
• They have documented military and intelligence ties.
• So certainly front of mind for a lot of people as a real threat. Thank you.
• So, certainly front of mind for a lot of people is a real threat. Thank you. Mr. Chair.

Committee: House House Federalism, Military Affairs & Elections Committee of Reference

Summary: The committee heard an extended presentation and discussion on Arizona higher education research security, focused heavily on Arizona State University’s foreign funding, international partnerships, and alleged ties to Chinese military-affiliated institutions. The presenter argued that ASU and the Arizona Board of Regents had not been transparent about foreign gifts, contracts, and research collaborations, especially those involving the Chinese “Seven Sons” universities, and said the committee would pursue a congressional referral and other federal review. A strike-everything amendment to SB 1060 was described but then withdrawn; the underlying SB 1327 was then taken up as a companion measure requiring ABOR to adopt university research security policies and submit annual reports on those policies and on foreign contributions over $250,000. The committee heard testimony in support from Marina Macklin, who said the bill would help protect dual-use and defense-relevant research from being funneled to China’s military ecosystem, and she answered questions about biosecurity, semiconductors, AI model theft, and election systems. After debate, SB 1327 was approved on a 4-2 vote, with Delos Santos and Marquez voting no and Colloden, Powell, and the chair voting yes; the chair stated his support was to keep missile, armor, guidance, and other technology safe from the Chinese government. The committee then heard SB 1803, a veterans’ consumer-protection bill regulating private companies that help veterans file disability claims. The bill would prohibit unaccredited persons from preparing, presenting, or prosecuting veterans’ benefits matters, require service agreements to be filed with the Attorney General, cap compensation, ban certain practices such as overseas call centers and in-house doctors, and create consumer-fraud enforcement authority. Sponsor Sen. Gallin said the measure was intended to add guardrails for veterans and prevent bad actors from taking excessive fees or misleading claimants. Testimony from Veterans Guardian representatives supported the bill as a way to create transparency and preserve veterans’ choice while regulating the industry; they said many veterans seek private help after unsuccessful attempts with free services and that the bill would not eliminate competition. Opponents and skeptical members questioned whether the bill would effectively legalize one business model while restricting others, whether the contingent-fee structure was consumer-friendly, and whether the companies were engaging in the unauthorized practice of law. The discussion also referenced prior federal and state litigation involving similar laws and the possibility of future federal accreditation reform. The transcript ends during continued questioning on SB 1803, before a final vote is shown.

Transcript Highlights:

• As my position with working for the Financial Crimes Intelligence Center, it should be neutral.
• H.B. 1871 focuses on this threat and will provide a stronger deterrent to those willing to take the lives
• H.B. 1871 focuses on this threat and will provide a stronger deterrent to those willing to take the lives
• Every day law enforcement faces deadly threats from individuals who wish to end their life for no other

Summary: The Subcommittee on New Offenses and Changed Penalties met with a quorum present and first handled witness-registration corrections for House Bill 2461, changing one witness from support to neutral and deleting another registration; HB 2461 was left pending. The subcommittee then heard House Bill 3507, which would create a tiered penalty structure for repeat theft offenders by increasing penalties for those with five or more prior theft convictions. Representative Wharton and Walker County District Attorney Will Durham testified in support, arguing current law treats chronic shoplifters the same regardless of how many prior convictions they have. No opposition was presented, and HB 3507 was left pending. The committee next heard House Bill 1871, which would increase penalties for attempted capital murder of a peace officer, raise the minimum sentence to 25 years, and deny parole and mandatory supervision for those convicted. Representative Dyson, Brazos County District Attorney Jarvis Parsons, Lieutenant Ed Ramirez, and Chief Deputy Constable Calder Lively testified in support, describing attacks on officers and arguing the bill would provide stronger deterrence and truth in sentencing. No questions or opposition were recorded, and HB 1871 was left pending. House Bill 4911 followed, updating child exploitation laws to address AI-generated and deepfake child sexual abuse material by expanding definitions and criminalizing knowing possession or viewing of fake or computer-generated images depicting minors. Representative Fairly and Harris County DA’s Office division chief Steven Driver supported the bill, saying technology had outpaced existing law and that the measure would help protect children. A committee member raised concerns about broad affirmative defenses in the bill, and Representative Fairly said the office would work on an amendment. HB 4911 was left pending. Finally, on HB 795, Representative Bowers moved that the subcommittee report completion of deliberations and recommend the bill for full committee consideration; the motion passed 3-2, and the meeting adjourned.

Transcript Highlights:

• Now artificial intelligence and tech advancements allow them to not only track worker movements, but
• Now artificial intelligence and tech advancements allow them to not only track worker movements, but
• Artificial intelligence systems sold to employers are no longer just simple chatbots or search engines
• them in compliance with this notice, with 11 required provisions and everything else, the potential threat
• You know, in the coming decades, we're going to have to grapple with artificial intelligence and the

Committee: House Labor and Employment

Transcript Highlights:

• And just for numbers and context, we open approximately 200 investigations annually into threats, threat
• And so they're determining what's a threat. And so they're determining what's a threat.
• In University City, there have been numerous anti-Jew protests and threats.
• In University City, there had been numerous anti-Jew protests and threats.
• Well, that's what's the threat. And as few R.A. Well, that's what's the threat.

Committees: House Emerging Issues , House Emerging Issues and Professional Registration

Transcript Highlights:

• Four, to render aid during a natural disaster, a declared emergency, or to prevent a serious threat to
• Like, I have the utmost faith that our law enforcement is intelligent and have the tools to be able to
• I had the overwhelming feeling that I couldn't protect myself or others from threat.
• He is intelligent, hardworking, hilarious, and kind.

Committee: Senate Judiciary and Rules

Transcript Highlights:

• So I see a lot of intelligent thought... ...that.
• So I see a lot of intelligent thought into this bill and to people who would opt in to this process.
• affordable housing at the center rather than at the margins, and dismiss it as though it's somehow a threat
• to the community. ...rather than at the margins and dismiss it as though it's somehow a threat to Florida's

Summary: The Intergovernmental Affairs Subcommittee heard a full agenda of local and policy bills, with most measures receiving favorable reports. Early in the meeting, the committee approved HB 4019, capping Lake County inmate health care and emergency transport reimbursements at percentages tied to Medicare; HB 97, allowing small counties to opt back into transportation concurrency; HB 267, expanding SHIP/local housing assistance eligibility to mobile home owners paying lot rent; HB 351, creating a framework for concurrent state jurisdiction over certain matters involving military installations, with an amendment changing the bill to say the state “may accept” jurisdiction; HB 4013, revising and merging fire district boundaries in Lee County; HB 481, increasing public nuisance fines and strengthening nuisance abatement and foreclosure procedures; HB 4025, conveying state land to the Village of Tequesta for continued park use; and HB 4017, repealing an obsolete Nassau County recreation and water control district, as amended. The most extensive discussion centered on HB 299, the “Blue Ribbon Projects” bill, which would create a voluntary framework for very large developments that dedicate 60% of land to conservation while allowing compact, walkable development and affordable housing on the remainder. The sponsor argued it would balance growth, conservation, and housing affordability without new bureaucracy, while opponents from Audubon Florida, county groups, and local governments warned the bill could weaken local planning, lack enforceable conservation safeguards, and allow nonconservation uses within reserved areas. Supporters said it could preserve large tracts of land at no taxpayer cost and improve long-range planning. The committee adopted an amendment clarifying reserve areas, allowing use of the state’s Rural and Family Lands Protection Program, requiring easements be provided without charge, and aligning affordability definitions with existing programs. The bill then passed favorably as amended, with some members voting no. The committee also approved HB 4023, a local bill adjusting the boundaries of the Ave Maria Stewardship Community District in Collier County, with no change to the district’s powers and duties. Several bills drew supportive testimony from local officials, industry groups, or affected residents, and some had amendments adopted without objection. At the end of the meeting, the chair noted it was the last interim committee week meeting, thanked members and staff, and encouraged continued stakeholder engagement ahead of session.

Transcript Highlights:

• They didn't need tax policy to be an impetus to invest in artificial intelligence, and the goal of that
• We have seen many times in the state legislature the threat of jobs being relocated hung over the head
• They didn't need tax policy to be an impetus to invest in artificial intelligence, and the goal of that
• We have seen many times in the state legislature the threat of jobs being relocated hung over the head

Summary: State Rep. Shaun Scott and supporters held a press event promoting the proposed Well Washington Fund, a new dedicated account intended to raise about $3 billion annually through a corporate payroll tax on wages above $125,000. Scott said the fund would help Washington respond to federal austerity policies and protect programs at risk from H.R. 1 and related Trump administration cuts, especially in housing, health care, higher education, cash assistance, and wildfire response. He also referenced related revenue ideas, including restoring wildfire mitigation funding by ending a bank tax break and allowing counties to raise corporate taxes. Several speakers testified in support of the proposal. Michelle Thomas of the Washington Low Income Housing Alliance warned that federal housing policy changes could put more than 5,000 people at risk of losing housing and said the state needs progressive revenue to address evictions and homelessness. Christina Savitsky, a disabled veteran, described how Medicaid, food assistance, and housing cuts would affect her family and said recertification and work requirements would be difficult to meet. University of Washington faculty representatives said federal cuts are threatening teaching, research, nursing and public health workforce training, and hospital funding. Fatima Boxwala of Tech for Taxes and Mikey Stramskis of the Washington Federation of State Employees argued that large corporations and wealthy residents should pay more to support public services. In a question-and-answer session, Scott said the bill’s urgency could justify an emergency clause and argued that voters had already endorsed taxing the wealthy in the 2024 capital gains referendum. He rejected concerns that the tax would drive jobs away, saying corporations already shed jobs and invest in automation, while public services and affordability are what attract residents and businesses. He said he had held encouraging conversations with some lawmakers and a credit union lobbyist, but not with major corporate interests, and urged passage of the bill in the 2026 session.