Transcript Highlights:

• everybody, we're going to call to order this meeting of the Rural Development, Land Grants and Cultural Affairs
• You know, I took some of the inspiration from the IPCC, the Indian Pebble Cultural Center, which, you
• And we have an appropriation for $450,000 in the general fund to the Cultural Affairs Department for
• I'm Eli Gine, the state librarian here on behalf of the Department of Cultural Affairs, and we stand

Keywords: 996, all

Transcript Highlights:

• As part of broader planning, As part of broader planning under the GMA, a federally recognized Indian
• As you may remember, I came before you last year explaining the situation within the American Indian
• In Washington State, American Indians suffer the highest fatality rates, six times higher than anyone
• As you may remember, I came before you last year explaining the situation within the American Indian
• Jason Hudson, government affairs director for IBEW Local 77.

Bills: SB6132

Keywords: indebtedness limits, inland port districts, federal funding, infrastructure improvements, economic development, 904, all

Transcript Highlights:

• a member of the Board of Trustees, the governing body of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian
• Two, consultation should involve a structured engagement model to ensure federally recognized Indian
• It's a good day to be here, and my Indian name is Bhaneshet. And I come from the Big River.
• I'm Daniel Heimbaugh, government affairs program manager with Energy Northwest.
• I'm Steve Taylor, Director of Regulatory and Regional Affairs for Cowlitz PUD.

Bills: SB5821, SB6004, SB6010, SB5941

Keywords: nuclear energy, energy strategy, advanced technology, sustainability, state policy, renewable energy, public entities, electric generation, contracting, SB 6010, Washington energy siting, EFSEC, Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council, tribal consultation, government-to-government consultation, federally recognized tribes, energy facility siting, RCW, clean energy, alternative energy

Summary: The committee heard Senate Bill 5821, which would direct the Department of Commerce, if funded through gifts or grants, to develop a nuclear power strategic framework to supplement the state energy strategy. The bill sponsor and supporters said Washington needs to keep all clean energy options on the table, including advanced nuclear, to address rising electricity demand, reliability, affordability, workforce needs, and potential economic benefits. Opponents, including the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, Sierra Club, Columbia Riverkeeper, and others, argued the bill moves too quickly toward nuclear development, relies on private funding that could bias the process, and does not adequately address tribal consultation, waste, safety, or Hanford-related concerns. Supporters included Energy Northwest, Cowlitz PUD, Yakima County, and several nuclear advocates who said the bill is only a planning framework and that advanced nuclear could help meet future energy needs. No vote was taken on the bill in the transcript. The committee then held a work session with the Washington State Institute for Public Policy on its recent review of state policies supporting small modular reactors. WSIPP described 79 policies in 35 states and grouped them into categories such as feasibility studies, siting, workforce development, permitting, power purchase arrangements, and financial support. Members asked about water use, waste, land footprint, and how the report treated fission versus fusion; WSIPP said the assignment focused on fission and that some issues like waste and environmental impacts were not the main focus of the review. Senators also discussed the need to compare nuclear with other energy technologies over their full life cycle. The committee next heard Senate Bill 5941, which would exempt certain self-generation requirements from the state energy code for some commercial buildings. Supporters, including Vista and the Association of Washington Business, said the code requirement should not be imposed in all cases and that customers should not be forced into self-generation where it does not make sense. IBEW Local 46 opposed the bill, saying the state should protect and expand energy efficiency strategies instead of adding exemptions. The hearing then moved to Senate Bill 6010, which would change EFSEC tribal consultation rules by exempting most government-to-government consultations from the Open Public Meetings Act when there is no deliberation, requiring all EFSEC members to participate in consultation, and giving tribes a chance to review and correct the consultation summary before it goes to the governor. Yakama Nation, Washington Conservation Action, and Renewable Northwest supported the bill as a way to strengthen confidential, meaningful tribal consultation, while the Association of Washington Business opposed it as a possible source of delay unless timelines are added. The committee then heard Senate Bill 6004, which would update contracting statutes so cities, PUDs, and joint operating agencies can contract for renewable or non-emitting resources under CETA definitions rather than older qualified alternative resource definitions. Energy Northwest and the Washington PUD Association supported the bill as a modernization measure, while Sierra Club, ratepayer advocates, and others opposed it, warning it could shift financial risk to customers and encourage speculative nuclear projects. The meeting ended after the committee finished the remaining testimony on SB 5821, with supporters and opponents repeating their arguments about nuclear energy, costs, safety, waste, climate goals, and ratepayer risk.

Transcript Highlights:

• He went after White, Black, Asian, Indian. It didn't matter.
• I'm government and affairs manager for the city of Kent, and I want to speak in strong support of HB
• I sit here before you after coming down here last year to report back to you on the state of affairs
• Indian Health Board stands in strong support of passing this particular piece of legislation.
• I started work at the Seattle Indian Health Board nine years ago.

Summary: The House Community Safety Committee held public hearings on several bills. House Bill 2209 would add 12- or 24-month sentencing enhancements for theft-related offenses when the value of stolen, possessed, or trafficked property exceeds $20,000 or $50,000, respectively. Rep. Mari Leavitt said the bill targets organized retail theft and related violence, emphasizing business losses, worker safety, and links to broader criminal activity. Supporters included prosecutors, retailers, law enforcement, and city officials who described organized retail crime as coordinated, underreported, and harmful to employees and communities. Opponents argued theft trends are declining, existing penalties are sufficient, and sentencing enhancements would worsen incarceration and racial disparities. The hearing on HB 2209 was left open for additional testimony. House Bill 2403 would revise penalties for failure to register as a sex offender or kidnapping offender, including lowering the seriousness level for second and subsequent offenses from level 2 to level 1 in the proposed substitute. Testimony was overwhelmingly supportive or neutral. Proponents from the Sex Offender Policy Board, sentencing commission, public defenders, prosecutors, and sheriffs’ representatives said the bill reflects long-negotiated recommendations, better matches the offense’s administrative nature, and may improve compliance by pairing shorter prison terms with community custody and supervision. The committee then closed the public hearing on HB 2403. House Bill 1591, in a proposed substitute, would create a sentencing alternative, resentencing option, and conviction-vacation process for defendants who are verified survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, or human trafficking, where abuse was the primary and proximate cause of the offense. Supporters, including survivor advocates, prosecutors involved in diversion programs, and researchers, said many incarcerated women are survivors and current law often fails to account for coercion and trauma. Some witnesses urged broader eligibility and less reliance on formal documentation. Prosecutors and sheriffs’ representatives expressed concerns about discretion, potential public-safety impacts, and whether existing sentencing factors already address these cases. The committee also heard extensive testimony on House Bill 2526, which would rename patronizing a prostitute as commercial sexual exploitation, expand the offense to include providing anything of value, elevate it from a misdemeanor to a Class C felony, and increase associated fees. Supporters framed it as a response to trafficking, exploitation, and violence against women and children, while opponents—many of them sex workers or survivors—argued it would criminalize consensual adult sex work, push the industry further underground, and reduce safety and income for vulnerable people.

Transcript Highlights:

• . ...continuation of our efforts to update the California Indian Child Welfare Act, or Cal-ICWA.
• Also, Dorothy Altar of California Indian Legal Service.
• For example, we have the remains of an Indian boarding school right at Morongo.
• Joining me today is Vice Chairman Mike Lopez of the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians.
• Indian Association.

Summary: The Senate Judiciary Committee met without a quorum and proceeded as a subcommittee while hearing a long consent calendar and several Assembly bills. Early testimony focused on AB 1744, which would prohibit sunscreen products marketed as “reef safe” or similar from containing chemical UV filters; the author and student supporters said the bill is a truth-in-labeling measure to protect marine ecosystems, and there was no opposition. Committee members praised the student witnesses and the author asked for an aye vote, but no vote was taken because of the lack of quorum. The committee then heard AB 713, which would allow undocumented students at UC, CSU, and community colleges to access campus jobs. Supporters, including a UCLA law professor and a large coalition of student, labor, immigrant-rights, and education groups, argued the bill would reduce exploitation and improve affordability and retention; opponents argued it would conflict with federal law. Members expressed strong support, and the author closed by emphasizing that students simply want the chance to work, but again no vote occurred due to the subcommittee status. The committee also heard AB 1359, allowing people age 80 and older to opt out of jury service without a doctor’s note, with support from the Alzheimer’s Association and LeadingAge California and no opposition. Additional measures included AB 2563, which would standardize California’s definition of sex discrimination across state codes to align with equal-rights principles; it drew strong support from women’s rights and labor groups and strong opposition from anti-trans advocates. AB 1705 would require websites to verify consent before hosting sexually explicit images of people, with supporters framing it as a response to nonconsensual pornography and opponents warning it could sweep in sites that prohibit such content. AB 1940 would explicitly name menopause in workplace protections, with supporters citing workforce equity and opponents saying existing accommodation law already covers it. The committee also heard AB 1824 and AB 2115 on Native American child welfare and a formal legislative apology for historic harms, both backed by tribal representatives and allies, as well as AB 2076 on nitrous oxide sales to minors and AB 2783 on court reporter licensing and remote reporting; all drew support and no recorded opposition. Several members praised the bills and indicated they would move them when a quorum was available.

Transcript Highlights:

• This bill tasks the Commission on Indian Affairs with identifying Native mascots and working with DESE
• The National Congress of American Indians, the nation's oldest and largest organization representing
• I'm the Western Massachusetts Commissioner on Indian Affairs, and I'm here to testify in favor of H-525
• I helped facilitate the change High School Warriors and the Turner's Falls Indians.
• Indians.

Keywords: 995, all

Summary: The committee opened a public hearing on 41 bills related to school climate and safety, with chairs Jason Lewis and Ken Gordon outlining procedures and noting more than 125 witnesses. The first major topic was the “Study Act” on cell phones in schools and related social media restrictions (House 666/Senate 335). Secretary of Education Pat Tutwiler and Attorney General Andrea Campbell testified in strong support, arguing that bell-to-bell phone-free policies would improve student focus, reduce anxiety and distraction, and support mental health. Several legislators also supported the approach, though Representative Jeff Turco and Senator John Keenan emphasized narrower bills focused only on school-day phone restrictions rather than broader social media regulation. Senator John Velis likewise backed a comprehensive school-hours restriction, citing student distraction and mental health concerns. Representative Tarsky described successful implementation of a Yondr pouch system in a school where he served as principal, saying it improved engagement and reduced bullying and discipline issues. The committee then heard testimony on a bill to prohibit Native American mascots in public schools (Senate 312/House 575). Senator Joe Comerford, Brittany Wally, and Rhonda Anderson all urged passage, saying Native mascots are dehumanizing, harmful to Native youth, and inconsistent with civil rights and educational values. They described support from tribal nations and noted that many Massachusetts schools have already changed mascots, but some still resist. The hearing also included testimony on school start times (House 647/Senate 360), where middle school students Caroline Duffy and Emery Jarvis described exhaustion and survey data showing widespread sleep deprivation. Former educator Telia Jacobs, former principal Rep. Tarsky, and others argued that later start times would improve health, learning, and student well-being, while acknowledging transportation and scheduling challenges. Zoriana Petrosian, who helped write one of the bills as a student, said the state already has enough research to act now. Additional bills drew testimony on related school issues. Dr. Raul Fernandez supported a bill promoting racially integrated schools (Senate 324), citing a recent advisory council report showing large disparities in segregated schools and urging DESE to develop a statewide integration strategy. On safe firearm storage education (House 548/Senate 397), multiple witnesses from Grassroots for Gun Violence Prevention and school communities supported annual school-based education about secure storage, saying it would help prevent child access to unsecured firearms and build on local resolutions already adopted in some districts. The committee also heard testimony on bills to expand career and academic plans (House 533/Senate 438), with speakers saying more structured planning would help students make informed college and career choices. Later, testimony on child sexual abuse prevention and survivor support bills described the prevalence of abuse, the need for training in schools and youth-serving organizations, and the importance of extending compensation and prevention measures. Throughout the hearing, chairs repeatedly closed bills with no witnesses and moved the agenda forward, but no votes were taken in the portion of the transcript provided.

Transcript Highlights:

• passed Senate Tax, Business, and Transportation Committee substitute for Senate Health and Public Affairs
• Senate Tax, Business, and Transportation Committee substitute for Senate Health and Public Affairs Committee
• Your House State Government, Elections and Indian Affairs Committee will meet tomorrow morning at 8:30
• Speaker, your Consumer and Public Affairs Committee will meet at about 5:30, as soon as we can get off
• House Labor, Veterans, and Military Affairs will meet around 5:30, or as soon as you can get there, in

Bills: HB111, HB108, HB145, HB164, HB291, HJR6, HR1, HB63, HB64, HB165, HB184, HB200, HB4, HB7, HB20, HB65, HB66, HB80, HB88, HB96, HB166, HB285, HB295, HB306, SB29, SB37, HJM2, HJM3, HJM1, HM7, HM17, HM4, HM22, HM23, HM24, HM26, HM2, HM16, HM32, HM13, HM47, HM20, HM51, HM1, HM31, HM35, HM36, HM46, HM53, HM54, HM11, HM14, HM21, HM34, HM50

Keywords: water law, state engineer, civil penalty, compliance order, water rights, overdiversion, illegal diversion, groundwater storage and recovery, well license, permit violation, water enforcement, New Mexico water code, irrigation district, conservancy district, water diversion, unauthorized water sales, measuring device, district court appeal, water resources, water compliance

Transcript Highlights:

• passed Senate Tax, Business and Transportation Committee substitute for Senate Health and Public Affairs
• Your House State Government, Elections and Indian Affairs Committee will meet tomorrow morning at 8:30
• Speaker, your Consumer and Public Affairs Committee... I'm a little blind on this side. Mr.
• Speaker, your Consumer and Public Affairs Committee will meet at 5:30-ish, as soon as we can get off
• House Labor, Veterans, and Military Affairs will meet around 5:30 or as soon as you can get there in

Bills: HB111, HB108, HB145, HB164, HB291, HJR6, HR1, HB63, HB64, HB165, HB184, HB200, HB4, HB7, HB20, HB65, HB66, HB80, HB88, HB96, HB166, HB285, HB295, HB306, SB29, SB37, HJM2, HJM3, HJM1, HM7, HM17, HM4, HM22, HM23, HM24, HM26, HM2, HM16, HM32, HM13, HM47, HM20, HM51, HM1, HM31, HM35, HM36, HM46, HM53, HM54, HM11, HM14, HM21, HM34, HM50

Keywords: water law, state engineer, civil penalty, compliance order, water rights, overdiversion, illegal diversion, groundwater storage and recovery, well license, permit violation, water enforcement, New Mexico water code, irrigation district, conservancy district, water diversion, unauthorized water sales, measuring device, district court appeal, water resources, water compliance

Summary: The House resumed third reading after a brief evacuation caused by a fire alarm, which members later said was triggered by a faulty sensor in the print shop. The chamber then completed final passage on three bills. House Bill 111 passed 51-3 after debate in which a member from Lee objected that the bill’s language shifted the burden onto landowners and water right owners to prove innocence. House Bill 96, as amended, passed 61-0 after a friendly floor amendment added minority leader appointments to the proposed space commission working group and set the working group to dissolve on December 31, 2026. House Bill 108, as amended, passed 63-1; it made technical changes to soil and water conservation districts, including clarifying district definitions, director appointment procedures, and tax procedures.

Transcript Highlights:

• Health and Human Services, having under consideration Senate Bill 1611, relating to the American Indian
• Health and Human Services, having under consideration Senate Bill 1611, relating to the American Indian
• Health and Human Services, having under consideration Senate Bill 1611, relating to the American Indian
• to thank the sponsor of SB, And then I also want to thank the sponsor of SB 1611 for the American Indian
• With the Senate President's permission, Regulatory Affairs and Government Efficiency will be meeting

Keywords: 1182, all

Transcript Highlights:

• work in the Indian Child Welfare space.
• I, Kui, CEO of the California Rural Indian Health Board and a member of the York Tribe...
• Aikui, CEO of the California Rural Indian Health Board and a member of the York Tribe, in support of
• And we're so proud of you on behalf of AIM, American Indian Movement of the And we're so proud of you
• On behalf of AIM, American Indian Movement of the Bay Area, we show our support.

Summary: The Senate Committee on Rules established quorum and approved several routine items on the agenda, including governor’s appointments not required to appear: Courtney Welsh to the California Housing Partnership Corporation Board, Janessa Goldbeck to the California Veterans Board, and Tom Huntington to the State Parks and Recreation Commission, each by 3-0 vote. The committee also approved reference of bills to committees, the 2026 committee chair/member assignments, the 2026 session schedule, the 2026 holiday schedule, and floor acknowledgments, all by unanimous votes. The committee noted that some 2026 committee changes would take effect February 1, 2026, and that new committees would depend on adoption of a Senate resolution. The committee then heard from Dr. Hernando Garson, nominated as chief medical officer of the Emergency Medical Services Authority. He described his background in emergency medicine, disaster response, and EMS leadership, and members questioned him about EMSA’s strategic plan, data integration, statewide standards versus local flexibility, ambulance patient offload time regulations, stakeholder engagement, and emergency response coordination. Dr. Garson emphasized data-driven decision-making, technical assistance to local agencies, collaboration with hospitals and EMS stakeholders, and the need for safer alternatives to routine ambulance transport such as community paramedicine, telehealth, and nurse triage. He also discussed disaster preparedness for vulnerable and rural communities and the use of regional and state assets, including ambulance strike teams, during fires and floods. The committee approved his appointment 4-0. The final item was Stephanie Weldon’s nomination as Deputy Director of the Office of Health Equity at the Department of Public Health. Weldon, who identified as Yurok-Tolowa and Karuk, spoke about her tribal, county, nonprofit, and state experience, her role as the first Native American woman in the position, and her commitment to health equity, rural communities, and culturally responsive public health work. Senators asked about how the office sets priorities, measures outcomes, addresses behavioral health, tribal consultation, youth mental health, and how it responds to political pressure around DEI language; Weldon said the office focuses on community-driven, data-informed work and transparency. Public commenters strongly supported her confirmation, citing her leadership on the California Reducing Disparities Project and related equity efforts. The committee approved her appointment 4-0, sending it to the full Senate for confirmation.

Transcript Highlights:

• work in the Indian Child Welfare space.
• I, Kui, CEO of the California Rural Indian Health Board and a member of the York Tribe, Aikui, CEO of
• the California Rural Indian Health Board and a member of the York Tribe, in support of Ms.
• Good afternoon, Heather Hossler, Executive Director of California Indian Legal Services, citizen of the
• Good afternoon, Heather Hossler, Executive Director of California Indian Legal Services, citizen of the

Summary: The Senate Committee on Rules convened, established quorum, and first approved several governor’s appointments not required to appear: Courtney Welsh to the California Housing Partnership Corporation Board, Janessa Goldbeck to the California Veterans Board, and Tom Huntington to the State Parks and Recreation Commission, each by 3-0 vote. The committee also approved reference of bills to committees, the 2026 committee chair/member assignments, the 2026 session schedule, the 2026 holiday schedule, and floor acknowledgments, all by unanimous votes. The committee then heard and advanced two appointments requiring testimony. Dr. Hernando Garzon, nominated as chief medical officer for the Emergency Medical Services Authority, discussed his background in emergency medicine, disaster response, EMS data modernization, local flexibility within statewide standards, ambulance offload time regulations, stakeholder engagement, and alternatives to emergency transport such as community paramedicine and telehealth. Members pressed him on strategic planning, rural and climate-related disaster response, ambulance rate reporting, and how EMSA can better protect vulnerable people during evacuations; his appointment was approved 4-0 and sent to the Senate floor. Stephanie Weldon, nominated as Deputy Director of the Office of Health Equity at the Department of Public Health, described her tribal background, prior public service, and focus on health equity, behavioral health, tribal consultation, data, and community-led programs. Senators asked about measuring outcomes, serving rural communities, balancing equity work amid federal DEI opposition, youth mental health, and preventing fraud or waste through transparency. Public commenters, including tribal, health, and community advocates, strongly supported her nomination. Her appointment was also approved 4-0 and forwarded to the full Senate.

Transcript Highlights:

• Affairs are not California peace officers.
• Law enforcement officers of the Federal Bureau of Indian Affairs are not California peace officers, but
• Now, also, tribes, 12 of them to my knowledge, have agreements with the Bureau of Indian Affairs for
• federal agents to provide public safety on Indian reservations.
• Indian reservations.

Summary: The committee heard several bills, though no final votes were taken because a quorum had not yet been established. SB 493 by Senator Becker would add war or armed conflict to California’s price-gouging emergency triggers, with the author and supporters arguing it would protect consumers from gas-price spikes tied to international conflict. Opponents, including business and housing groups, warned the bill could over-trigger emergency powers and create broad, ongoing price controls. The chair indicated support for an aye-as-amended recommendation once quorum was reached. SB 1056 by Senator Grayson would require protective orders for disclosure of sexually explicit material involving adult victims in specified criminal cases. Denise Huskins-Quinn and Aaron Quinn testified in support, describing how sensitive evidence in their case was copied and handled without adequate safeguards; supporters said the bill would extend privacy protections similar to those already used for child sexual abuse material. Criminal defense attorneys supported the goal but raised concerns about notice procedures and how the bill would apply when material is in the public domain. The chair said the bill filled a gap in existing law and would receive an aye recommendation. SB 1208 by Senator Grayson would let law enforcement seize and return crypto assets used in scams and fraud to victims. The Attorney General’s office and law enforcement groups supported the bill as a tool to recover losses from transnational crypto fraud, while the ACLU and public defenders argued it lowered the burden of proof, raised constitutional concerns, and could be misused against unbanked or low-level defendants. The chair nevertheless said the bill aligned with existing law for stolen property and would be recommended aye. SB 874 by Senator Weber-Pearson would strengthen oversight of Medi-Cal behavioral health treatment services, including requiring background checks for employees of providers and convening a stakeholder workgroup; it drew support from the California Association for Behavior Analysis and no opposition was heard. Later, SB 1266 by Senator Stern would change how the value of stolen copper and related infrastructure damage is calculated, aiming to address copper theft and its costs to cities and utilities. Supporters said the bill would better capture the real harm from thefts that disrupt streetlights, telecom, and emergency services, while opponents argued it would inflate charges, turn many misdemeanors into felonies, and increase court and incarceration costs. The author said he would continue discussions and accept the amendments. Senator Cervantes presented SB 1379, which would separate the Riverside County sheriff and coroner offices and create an independent medical examiner; supporters cited in-custody death concerns and conflicts of interest, while opponents said the problem was not unique to Riverside and that the bill would override local control. Cervantes also presented SB 1418 to extend ballot-custody protections to other election records and equipment after a Riverside County ballot seizure, with support from the Attorney General’s office. Finally, Senator Blakespear began presenting SB 936 on nitrous oxide misuse, describing public health, impaired-driving, and disposal concerns, but the transcript cuts off before the bill’s testimony concluded.

Transcript Highlights:

• So we sit at the University of Hawaii system office under the vice president for academic affairs. >>

Bills: SB2901, SB2902, SB2903, SB2904, SB2905, SB2906, SB2907, SB2908, SB2909, SB2910, SB2911, SB2912, SB2913, SB2914, SB2915, SB2916, SB2917, SB2918, SB2919, SB2920, SB2921, SB2922, SB2923, SB2924, SB2925, SB2926, SB2927, SB2928, SB2929, SB2930, SB2931, SB2932, SB2933, SB2934, SB2935, SB2936, SB2937, SB2938, SB2939, SB2940, SB2941, SB2942, SB2943, SB2944, SB2945, SB2946, SB2947, SB2948, SB2949, SB2950, SB2951, SB2952, SB2953, SB2954, SB2955, SB2956, SB2957, SB2958, SB2959, SB2960, SB2961, SB2962, SB2963, SB2964, SB2965, SB2966, SB2967, SB2968, SB2969, SB2970, SB2971, SB2972, SB2973, SB2974, SB2975, SB2976, SB2977, SB2978, SB2979, SB2980, SB2981, SB2982, SB2983, SB2984, SB2985, SB2986, SB2987, SB2988, SB2989, SB2990, SB2991, SB2992, SB2993, SB2994, SB2995, SB2996, SB2997, SB2998, SB2999, SB3000

Keywords: geological subsurface characterization, groundwater, geothermal resources, environmental review, Hawaii groundwater and geothermal resources center, scientific research, non-extractive, public trust doctrine, clean energy, greenhouse gas, carbon sequestration, climate change, energy policy, Hawaii state energy office, emissions reduction, sustainable development, fare-free transportation, greenhouse gas emissions, public transit, tax on petroleum

Bills: SB2901, SB2902, SB2903, SB2904, SB2905, SB2906, SB2907, SB2908, SB2909, SB2910, SB2911, SB2912, SB2913, SB2914, SB2915, SB2916, SB2917, SB2918, SB2919, SB2920, SB2921, SB2922, SB2923, SB2924, SB2925, SB2926, SB2927, SB2928, SB2929, SB2930, SB2931, SB2932, SB2933, SB2934, SB2935, SB2936, SB2937, SB2938, SB2939, SB2940, SB2941, SB2942, SB2943, SB2944, SB2945, SB2946, SB2947, SB2948, SB2949, SB2950, SB2951, SB2952, SB2953, SB2954, SB2955, SB2956, SB2957, SB2958, SB2959, SB2960, SB2961, SB2962, SB2963, SB2964, SB2965, SB2966, SB2967, SB2968, SB2969, SB2970, SB2971, SB2972, SB2973, SB2974, SB2975, SB2976, SB2977, SB2978, SB2979, SB2980, SB2981, SB2982, SB2983, SB2984, SB2985, SB2986, SB2987, SB2988, SB2989, SB2990, SB2991, SB2992, SB2993, SB2994, SB2995, SB2996, SB2997, SB2998, SB2999, SB3000

Keywords: geological subsurface characterization, groundwater, geothermal resources, environmental review, Hawaii groundwater and geothermal resources center, scientific research, non-extractive, public trust doctrine, clean energy, greenhouse gas, carbon sequestration, climate change, energy policy, Hawaii state energy office, emissions reduction, sustainable development, fare-free transportation, greenhouse gas emissions, public transit, tax on petroleum

Transcript Highlights:

• We all know and love Don Mullins as the assistant vice president of health affairs and government relations
• successfully defended his dissertation and has been awarded his PhD in politics and international affairs
• It requires that the Office of Public and Professional Guardians within the Department of Elder Affairs
• A bill to be entitled an act relating to compensation for health care services for inmates in Indian
• She's a freshman at Tallahassee State College studying political science and international affairs.

Keywords: 998, house, all

Summary: The Senate convened with a quorum, opening prayer, Pledge of Allegiance, and a series of introductions recognizing guests, interns, public safety officials, and a doctor of the day. The chamber then moved to the special order calendar and took up several bills, with some measures temporarily postponed and others substituted with House companions before final passage. No committee reports, governor messages, or House messages were on the desk at the start of the regular order of business. The first major bill passed was CS/CS/HB 355 on health care patient protection, which requires hospitals with emergency departments to have evidence-based pediatric emergency care policies, training, pediatric equipment, a designated pediatric emergency care coordinator, and participation in the National Pediatric Readiness Assessment. Senators also passed CS/CS/HB 1113 on public records, clarifying confidentiality protections for victims and for law enforcement officers who become victims in the course of duty, though that bill drew questions about access to information in misconduct cases and received four no votes. The Senate then passed CS/CS/HB 1085 on local government cybersecurity, creating a Florida Digital Service-administered program to help local governments obtain cybersecurity services and grants, with amendments shifting the grant-award deadline and rejecting House differences such as locating the program at USF and adding a sunset date. The chamber also passed CS/CS/HB 925 on clerks of court, allowing clerks to retain all revenue above Article V projections and revising related fee distributions, despite concerns from some senators and municipalities about revenue shifts. Additional bills passed included CS/CS/HB 679 modernizing trademark registration, and CS/CS/CS/HB 589 on septic system permits, which addresses long permit delays and clarifies liability if construction begins before a permit is issued. Several other bills were taken up, including elections legislation (SB 1334/HB 991) that generated extensive debate and multiple failed amendments on voter ID, citizenship verification, student and senior IDs, and implementation timing; the transcript ends while that bill is still under consideration, after the Senate adopted one amendment and rejected several others.

Transcript Highlights:

• I have Bailey Hovland from Standpoint and Brandon Alkire from the Minnesota Indian Affairs Council that
• I have Bailey Hovland from Standpoint and Brandon Alkire from the Minnesota Indian Affairs Council that
• I have Bailey Hovland from Standpoint and Brandon Alkire from the Minnesota Indian Affairs Council that
• I have Bailey Hovland from Standpoint and Brandon Alkire from the Minnesota Indian Affairs Council that
• I'm the executive director for the Minnesota Indian Affairs Council.

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Welcome to the Interim Joint Committee on Veterans, Military Affairs, and Public Protection.
• Over the course of his Indian oceans.
• Uh, it is a partnership that we have with the Department of Military Affairs to operate what you can
• Sometimes our own words can the Indians.
• I'm the executive director of government affairs for the Kentucky State Pipe Trades Association.

Keywords: 958, all

Transcript Highlights:

• I know there are folks in Indian lands that live in remote areas.
• Page 201, the Indian Affairs Department, the language on how the money is allocated is new to me, and
• Chair, we are reappropriating some of the money from Indian Affairs to higher ed, and then there's also
• Chair, we are reappropriating some of the money from Indian Affairs to higher ed, and then there's also

Summary: The committee first heard Senate Bill 152, which would create a low-income telecommunications assistance program and continue support for rural broadband operations and maintenance through the State Rural Universal Service Fund. Senator Padilla and Office of Broadband Access and Expansion Director Jeff Lopez said the bill responds to the loss of federal affordability support and would help low-income households pay for broadband, while also preserving funding for rural carriers and maintenance. Supporters included the Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce, the New Mexico Exchange Carrier Group, tribal telecom representatives, and several rural providers, who said affordability is the main barrier to service and that the bill would help families, students, and rural communities. A few witnesses opposed parts of the bill, arguing that the ARS funding should be redirected entirely to broadband affordability and that legacy POTS-line support should sunset. Committee members asked about ETC requirements, satellite and wireless options, rural density, and the sunset provision; the sponsor said the sunset on ARS would be removed and that stakeholder discussions would continue in the interim. The committee voted due pass on the Senate Finance Committee substitute for SB 152. The committee then took up Senate Rules Committee substitute for Senate Bill 132, which would add software planning and replacement to the state’s equipment replacement fund. The sponsor and expert said state agencies now rely heavily on software for core services and that planning for software alongside hardware would improve efficiency, security, and long-term sustainability. There was no opposition, and the committee voted due pass on the substitute. The meeting then shifted to a lengthy discussion of Senate changes to House Bill 2, the budget bill. Senate Finance staff described roughly 300 changes, including additional funding for fire response, early childhood, housing, health care, quantum initiatives, public safety, courts, transportation, education, and several social service programs. Members questioned cuts or reallocations affecting state employee pay, public school capital outlay, the state fair redevelopment, CARA, personal care services, the Office of Child Advocate, and other items. The presenters repeatedly defended the Senate’s use of funds as a way to preserve reserves while prioritizing health care, housing, education, and other recurring needs, and said reserves would remain above the target level even with the changes discussed.

Transcript Highlights:

• I represent APAPA, Asian Pacific American Public Affairs, and I support this bill.
• Andrew Governor on behalf of the Morongo Band of Mission Indians in support.
• Andrew Governor, on behalf of the Morongo Band of Mission Indians, in support.
• James May, on behalf of the California Nations Indian Gaming Association, in support.
• Terry Nicole Baca, Vice President of Legislative Affairs for AT&T.

Summary: The committee first heard AB 470, which would change California’s carrier-of-last-resort rules and allow a phased transition away from copper landlines in areas deemed well served by alternative phone options. The author and AT&T argued the bill would protect consumers, preserve 911 access, require public notice and CPUC review, and direct investment toward modern fiber and emergency communications. Supporters included a wide range of business, civic, tribal, and community groups, while opponents from TURN, rural counties, labor, digital equity organizations, and local governments warned the bill could let AT&T shed service obligations too quickly, weaken protections for rural and underserved households, and harm workers. After extensive member discussion about CPUC authority, rural carveouts, labor impacts, and reinvestment, AB 470 was passed do pass as amended to Appropriations, with one no vote and one not voting, and the roll left open. The committee then took up AB 1532, a committee omnibus bill extending funding and surcharge authority for the Deaf and Disabled Telecommunications Program and the TNC Access for All program, while also adding CPUC accountability provisions. Chair Boerner Horvath explained the bill would not raise consumer costs and would require the CPUC to appear at hearings when requested and adopt rules for commissioner attendance. There was no opposition testimony, and the bill was moved do pass and re-refer to Utilities and Energy, though the roll was left open because it had not yet reached the threshold for immediate transmission. Finally, the committee heard AB 353, the Affordable Home Internet Act of 2025, which would establish an affordability floor for home broadband for low-income Californians after the expiration of the federal Affordable Connectivity Program. Supporters said broadband costs remain too high and that families, students, and vulnerable communities need a state solution now; opponents from the wireless industry and rural county representatives argued the bill would amount to an artificial price mandate and could complicate existing rural broadband buildouts. Members generally supported the goal but raised concerns about impacts on small ISPs and rural areas, and the bill was moved forward with a motion and second while discussion continued about possible exemptions and amendments.

Transcript Highlights:

• Affairs, GOIA, as many of you may have heard, as a permanent cabinet-level agency.
• Affairs and renamed the Governor's Office of Indian Affairs.
• Affairs, Goya, as many of you may have heard, as a permanent cabinet-level agency.
• And in 1979, the Council is reorganized to the Assistant of Indian Affairs and renamed the Governor's
• Office of Indian Affairs.

Summary: The committee heard public testimony on Substitute Senate Bill 5828, which would restore and adjust Washington College Grant and College Bound Scholarship award levels for students attending private, not-for-profit four-year institutions. Staff explained the bill would set the awards at 90 percent of the regional and state college rate rather than 50 percent of the research rate, with an estimated fiscal impact of $3.3 million in fiscal year 2027 and $18.6 million over four years. Testimony was largely in support from private college presidents, students, and school counselors, who said the bill would help low-income and first-generation students and preserve access and enrollment choices; some public college student representatives said they did not oppose the bill but argued that cuts to public-school aid should be restored first. The committee also heard Substitute Senate Bill 5911, which would prohibit DCYF from using benefits or funds of youth in extended foster care as reimbursement for their cost of care beginning in 2027, while requiring support for benefit management and payee arrangements and allowing protected accounts such as ABLE accounts. Staff estimated a net fiscal impact of $608,000 in fiscal year 2027 and $2.2 million per biennium thereafter. Testimony in support said the bill would end the practice of withholding SSI and other benefits from youth in care and better support disabled youth transitioning to adulthood. Members asked questions about fiduciary responsibility and representative payee arrangements. In executive session, the committee adopted amendments and advanced several bills. It adopted Amendment Clark 350 to House Bill 2689, raising the required provider response rate for the child care market rate survey to 65 percent, and then reported the bill out with a due pass recommendation by a vote of 18-11, with two excused. It adopted Amendment H-3743.1 to Engrossed Second Substitute Senate Bill 5395 on retrospective prior authorization denials and reported that bill out unanimously. It also adopted Amendment Pool 272 to Senate Bill 5420 and reported that bill out unanimously. For Engrossed Second Substitute Senate Bill 5496, the committee adopted several amendments clarifying scope and penalties but rejected amendments that would have delayed the bill or replaced it with a study; the bill was then reported out with a due pass recommendation. The committee also heard amendment briefings on other bills, including 5981, 6026, 6160, 6184, and 6211, but deferred action on some items heard that morning.