Transcript Highlights:

• would need the ability to maintain legislative oversight, the ability to monitor implementation, and assess
• cost-neutral way, but getting the details would allow the legislature to oversee some of the more practical
• how well the education system as a whole... ...and more about monitoring and assessing how well the
• I witnessed firsthand how the structural independence of the superintendent's office serves as a practical
• In practice, however, the experience of districts does not reflect this intended role.

Committee: House Education

Keywords: 988, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• . >> And I just don’t think as a prosecutor for practical terms, having the death penalty on the table
• And I just don’t think as a prosecutor for practical terms, having the death penalty on the table in
• for practical terms, having the<00:35:00.000><c> death</c><00:35:00.320><c> penalty</c><00:35:00.640
• Anyway, what district do you practice in?
• an annual fee 17 with Aaliyah may assess an annual fee not<01:16:44.800><c> to</c><01:16:44.960><c>

Committee: House Judiciary

Keywords: 1136, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• </c> And Dan's particular expertise is right at the intersection of clinical practice and technology,
• We just want to keep our people safe mentally and physically and ensure that we are doing best practice
• , evidence-based and doing best practice, evidence-based and doing no<00:35:52.079><c> harm.
• for suicide and uh risk assessments for suicide and early<00:41:16.800><c> diagnosis</c><00:41:17.440
• because again, what something practical because again, what I<01:03:39.119><c> found</c><01:03:39.359

Keywords: 958, all

Summary: The committee met with a quorum, approved the prior meeting minutes, and then heard testimony on the use of artificial intelligence in therapy and mental health settings. Representative Lisa Willner and Brenda Rosen of NASW Kentucky argued for “guard rails” on AI chatbots so they cannot present themselves as licensed therapists or replace school counselors, psychologists, or social workers. They said AI can support licensed professionals, but warned that chatbots cannot reliably recognize nonverbal cues, escalate crises, or provide accountable care, and they cited examples of harmful chatbot interactions, including a suicide case and a chatbot telling a user to “Please die.” The witnesses also raised concerns about data privacy, commercialization of sensitive mental health conversations, and the use of personal clinical content to train AI models. They said minors should require parental consent and suggested transparency about how a chatbot is trained and who created it. They distinguished between unvetted consumer chatbots and AI tools that have been scientifically validated or approved as digital therapeutics, noting that some evidence-based tools may be useful for specific conditions such as depression, anxiety, or eating disorders. Committee members asked whether regulation should be handled by the legislature or by professional boards, and whether a multi-state model would be preferable to 50 different state approaches. The witnesses generally favored expert-led standards and said a board or panel of experts could review and approve mental health chatbots, but members cautioned that boards can become too restrictive and that legislation should preserve flexibility and avoid discouraging children from seeking help. The discussion ended with a request for the witnesses to restate their proposed policy ideas, including privacy protections, bans on commercialization, limits on training AI with clinical content, transparency requirements, and informed consent.

Transcript Highlights:

• A comment first: especially in our practice, we found a huge trigger for relapse was insecure housing
• Four, use evidence-based policies and practices. Let me tell you something.
• Like a lot of harm reduction practices, the ripple effect extends far beyond just recovery.
• I think I'm somewhat familiar with the practices that we currently have in place for harm reduction.
• I'm asking about your Medicaid enrollment specialists and what that looks like in practice.

Committee: House Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment Task Force

Keywords: 959, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Here's the critical part of this: Four, use evidence-based policies and practices.
• Like a lot of harm reduction practices, the ripple effect extends far beyond just recovery.
• So shifting to the question of one thing that I would change about Missouri's policy or practice.
• I'm asking about your Medicaid enrollment specialists and what that looks like in practice.
• Merchandising Practices Act. It functions a lot like a subpoena. It's a mandatory process.

Summary: The task force heard extensive testimony on recovery support, harm reduction, and community-based care. Dan Haniken of Into Action described his own recovery from addiction and incarceration and argued that treatment alone is not enough; he said recovery housing, peer support, employment, accountability, and stable housing are what help people stay sober and avoid relapse. Members asked about funding, housing shortages, transportation, treatment courts, and support for medication-assisted treatment (MAT). Haniken said Into Action relies on a braided mix of federal, state, county, city, foundation, and private funding, and that recovery housing needs longer-term support than many current funding streams provide. He also said Missouri should expand recovery housing, peer recovery support, and recovery community centers, and improve awareness and access to MAT in recovery settings and after incarceration. Matt Cushman, a community paramedic with Raytown Fire Protection District, urged Missouri to expand harm reduction, including syringe service programs and broader access to clean needles and drug-checking tools. He argued that stigma and abstinence-only approaches keep many people from seeking help, and said harm reduction reduces disease transmission, overdose deaths, hospitalizations, and other harms while creating pathways to recovery. He cited naloxone distribution as a successful example and said similar strategies should be decriminalized and expanded. Members asked about naloxone access, community paramedicine funding, and whether safe consumption sites should be considered; Cushman said syringe exchange should be a near-term priority, while safe consumption sites are a longer-term policy question. Representatives from Ozarks Medical Center/COMC and Four Rivers Community Health Center focused on the need to reimburse peer support specialists and community health workers, especially in rural and underserved areas. COMC’s Monet Lehman shared her trauma and recovery story and described her jail reentry work, helping incarcerated people with housing, benefits, IDs, employment, MAT, and community supports before release. Four Rivers said its care coordinators and CHWs provide wraparound services such as transportation, housing help, Medicaid enrollment, clothing, and same-day MAT access. Members and staff discussed confusion over reimbursement rules, noting that CCBHCs can bill for peer services through Medicaid while FQHCs generally cannot, and that CHWs are often funded through grants rather than reimbursement. No votes were taken; the meeting consisted of testimony and member questions, with several requests for follow-up information on funding, transportation, and reimbursement rules.

Transcript Highlights:

• It's not misinformation, but well-informed studies and religious conviction that guide my assessment
• So in practicality, you know, when I hear that it is allowed and not a problem, practicality here in
• standards. ...from providing care consistent with current best practice standards.
• I am a credentialed advanced practice provider in hospitals in two Idaho counties.
• I grew up in Middleton, currently live in Caldwell, and now own a midwifery practice in Nampa.

Summary: The committee first heard House Bill 528, which would codify the ability for patients to use self-donated or directed donor blood under federal testing and collection guidelines. Representative Chris Bruce said the bill was intended to ensure Idaho patients have that option in state law after some hospitals or facilities had denied requests. Supporters testified that the bill protects patient autonomy, religious freedom, and medical choice, and described personal experiences where directed donation was difficult or impossible to arrange in Idaho. Opponents, including representatives from Vitalant and the Red Cross, said directed and autologous donations are already available when medically indicated, that the bill addresses a problem that does not exist, and that it could add cost, complexity, and strain to an already severe blood shortage without improving safety. After debate over terms such as “detrimental” and “gross negligence,” a substitute motion to send the bill to amending order failed 7-9, and the original motion to send HB 528 to the House floor with a do pass recommendation passed 7-6. The committee then approved a rules docket for the Idaho Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired’s Business Enterprise Program, which updates and streamlines rules governing vending and food service facilities operated by blind entrepreneurs. The committee next took up House Bill 550, a midwifery bill updating Idaho’s existing statute to allow licensed midwives to administer additional medications within their training and scope of practice. The sponsor and several midwives, nurses, and other supporters said the changes would modernize outdated law, improve care in rural areas, reduce unnecessary hospital transfers, and better address postpartum hemorrhage and other maternal or neonatal needs. One testifier described a tragic homebirth outcome and urged stronger safety limits, while the Idaho Medical Association said it had worked with the sponsor on compromise language. At the sponsor’s request, HB 550 was held in committee and the related revised RS was moved forward. The committee then approved RS-33-250, which incorporated agreed-upon changes defining a formulary and protocol and clarifying maternal and neonatal care language, sending it to the second reading calendar with a do pass recommendation. The meeting adjourned after completing the agenda.

Transcript Highlights:

• RECENTLY IN TALLAHASSEE A LOCAL FAMILY PREMIUMS AND IN PRACTICE THEY GO BARE.
• PRACTICING BUT WOULD MORE LIKELY RETIRE BECAUSE OF STUFF LIKE THIS. >> Chair: THANK YOU SO MUCH.
• FAMILY PRACTICE, EMERGENCY ROOM PHYSICIANS, ORTHOPEDISTS AND OBSTETRICIANS.
• NOT LONG AGO A SURGEON IN THE AREA WHERE I PRACTICE REMOVED THE LIVER OF A TOURIST WHERE I PRACTICE INTENDING
• PHYSICIANS NEED ONLY HEED TO THE SIGNS TO DO A BETTER JOB IN PRACTICE AND AVOID EGREGIOUS ERRORS.

Keywords: 999, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• This, we believe, will lead to better retention rates and effective instructional practices.
• Effective instructional practices.
• These changes support smarter hiring decisions and better long-term practices for new teachers.
• These changes support smarter hiring decisions and better long-term practices for new teachers.
• This is not just best practice; it's a matter of worker safety.

Bills: HB30 , HB120 , HJR1 , SB210 , SB306

Committee: Senate Senate Education

Keywords: teacher residency, Teacher Residency Act, public schools, teacher preparation, educator pipeline, teacher recruitment, teacher retention, student teachers, apprenticeship, co-teaching, mentor teachers, residency stipend, teacher salary, level one teacher, charter schools, school districts, New Mexico education, teacher workforce, principal stipend, cohort model

Transcript Highlights:

• So that's where in the past an individual is paying to not be able to practice dentistry.
• And so the other question is over on page 432, under 200, the practice standards, and I see that the
• I've been practicing 40 years. And so we've had that standard for at least 35 of them.
• And it's just, you know, it's the standard of practice for our profession, basically. Okay.
• Blair responded that it has been fantastic, that she has had her whole practice in Idaho, that she is

Committee: Senate Health and Welfare

Keywords: 989, all

Transcript Highlights:

• But it is still a break from the usual practice, particularly since the end of the Great Recession.
• Yeah, I mean, I think we share that assessment. Districts are in a...
• This is a little bit more of a return to the state's practice more like 10 years ago.
• I think that criteria is frankly useful for everybody to follow, and we do see that best practice being
• providing direct reading instruction should receive training on the evidence-based instructional practices

Summary: The Assembly Budget Subcommittee on Education Finance met for its annual Proposition 98 overview, with Chair Alvarez outlining the committee’s focus on K-12 funding, student outcomes, and use of one-time funds. Superintendent Tony Thurmond gave an update on education issues, including wildfire recovery support for affected school communities, ongoing concerns about federal threats to education funding and immigration enforcement, progress on literacy and math, dual-language immersion, educator housing, and support for dual enrollment. Members broadly expressed support for these priorities, while also raising concerns about implementation, funding stability, and the need for schools to remain safe places for students. The committee then reviewed the Governor’s Proposition 98 proposal. The Department of Finance said the 2025-26 Proposition 98 guarantee is projected at $118.9 billion, with higher revenues and TK-related rebenching driving the increase. The LAO said the budget adds about $7.5 billion over two years and discussed the volatility of the guarantee, especially in 2024-25, when changes in revenue could have an outsized effect on school funding. Members questioned the proposed $1.6 billion delayed settle-up payment, the legal basis for delaying it, and the impact of possible federal funding freezes. The LAO presented alternatives such as a reserve deposit or delayed disbursement, while Finance said the proposal is intended to manage uncertainty. Members also raised concerns that ethnic studies implementation was not funded in the January budget, and Finance said the administration was not proposing funding for it. The committee next heard on the Proposition 98 rainy day fund and education deferrals. Finance said the reserve would receive a mandatory deposit of about $1.2 billion in 2024-25 and a discretionary deposit of $376 million in 2025-26, leaving a balance of about $1.5 billion. The LAO supported rebuilding the reserve as a way to manage volatility. On deferrals, Finance described the Governor’s plan to eliminate remaining deferrals by 2025-26, and the LAO said paying them off improves cash flow and budget resilience. Members generally supported eliminating deferrals and rebuilding reserves, though some asked about acting earlier if revenues allow. The committee also reviewed the proposed $1.8 billion student support and professional development block grant; Finance said it would fund professional development, recruitment and retention, and dual enrollment, while the LAO recommended clearer language on local discretion and use for one-time costs. Members were divided, with some supporting flexibility and others warning that one-time block grants can create instability and confusion for districts.

Transcript Highlights:

• We're joining other states, and we're also using best practices that other states have gone through.
• It will protect students with disabilities from discriminatory school discipline practices.
• a proper exemption for the use of a cell phone in the classroom environment when it is the only practical
• alternative to accessing the information that it can be used. to be used where there is no practical
• Harry received his Juris Doctor degree from Suffolk University in 1983 and practiced law in Marblehead

Keywords: 995, all

Summary: The Senate first debated and advanced Senate Bill 2561, an act to promote student learning and mental health, centered on a statewide bell-to-bell restriction on student cell phone use in schools. Supporters argued the bill would reduce distraction, improve academic performance and mental health, and encourage social interaction, while preserving flexibility for districts and exceptions for emergencies, special education, health needs, and instructional uses. Several senators emphasized local control and the need for public input, and a number of amendments were considered: some were withdrawn, some were rejected, and others were adopted, including an amendment requiring consistent and necessary exceptions and another requiring public hearings and local public input. The bill was then ordered to a third reading and passed to be engrossed by a roll call vote of 38-2. The Senate also took up a conference committee report on a $259 million FY2025 supplemental appropriations bill. The report funded EMS costs, home care, the Healthy Incentives Program, DTA chip card technology, veterans benefits, the state police crime lab, the SSI state supplement, the Fair Housing Fund, and the National Guard, and included major indigent defense provisions: $40 million for 320 new CPCS staff attorneys, rate increases for private bar advocates, guardrails to reduce future work stoppages, and an independent review of the indigent defense system. Senators questioned the timing of the report, the inclusion of items not previously voted on by either branch, and the funding sources, including use of the transitional escrow fund and excess revenues. The report was accepted, the emergency preamble was adopted, and the supplemental budget was enacted. In addition, the Senate passed other measures, including a bill authorizing the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority to supply water to the Linfield Center Water District and a municipal roads and bridges financing bill, both by roll call vote. The chamber also enacted a health care protections bill, and it concurred in referrals on a governor’s municipal empowerment legislation. The session included a brief memorial tribute and adjournment in memory of Harry C. Christensen.

Transcript Highlights:

• received within 10 days, helping address recent changes in United States Postal Service postmark practices
• State VRAs are powerful, practical, and popular solutions to voting discrimination.
• SB 900 addresses a very real practical issue with how political disclosure requirements are currently
• Its staff routinely assess the impact of legislation, initiatives, and budget proposals, giving them
• Now, what’s the practical reality of that? Precinct-based models have unintended consequences.

Summary: The Senate Committee on Elections and Constitutional Amendments heard several election-related measures. SB 884 by Senator Umberg would expand electioneering buffer zones around polling places and ballot-processing sites, restrict law enforcement activity near voting locations except for crimes against persons or property, expand ballot drop box and vote center access, and extend the vote-by-mail receipt deadline. Supporters said it would protect voters from intimidation and interference; county election officials opposed it as operationally burdensome and difficult to enforce. The committee discussed amendments narrowing some provisions, and the bill was ultimately advanced on a 4-1 vote, with Senator Choi voting no. The committee also heard SB 1164 by Senator Cervantes, part of the California Voting Rights Act of 2026 package, which would codify and expand state voting-rights protections against vote dilution and voter suppression, add preclearance for certain jurisdictions with recent violations, and direct courts to interpret election laws in favor of voter access. Support came from civil rights and voting rights groups, while one city representative raised concerns about effects on pending litigation. Senator Choi questioned the bill’s concepts, but the measure was moved to Judiciary and later recorded as passing 4-1. SB 900 by Senator McNerney would shorten and streamline campaign-ad disclosure language, allow abbreviations, and increase the number of top funders listed on political mailers from three to five. Outdoor advertising and good-government groups supported the bill as improving readability while preserving transparency. It passed to Appropriations on a 5-0 vote. The committee also considered SB 1225 and SCA 3 by Senator Niello, which would shift responsibility for initiative titles and summaries from the Attorney General to the Legislative Analyst’s Office; supporters argued this would improve neutrality, while labor groups opposed the change as unnecessary and less accountable. Both measures were advanced to Appropriations after divided votes. Finally, SB 1360 by Senator Cervantes would expand election language-access requirements beyond current federal thresholds and add a petition process for undercounted language communities. It drew broad support from civil rights and advocacy organizations, with county election officials seeking amendments over implementation details; the bill passed 5-0 after the committee completed roll calls on the absent members.

Transcript Highlights:

• I've worked in private practice.
• My practice...
• My practice is currently focused on advising large entities and boards, including guiding them through
• I encourage districts to consistently implement research-based instructional practices, and I support
• I encourage districts to consistently implement research-based instructional practices, and I support

Bills: S1694

Committee: Senate Appropriations Committee on Higher Education

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

Summary: The Appropriations Committee on Higher Education met with a quorum present and first took up CS for SB 1694, which would require technology-integrated postsecondary general education core courses to include digital literacy and competency instruction, including use of artificial intelligence tools, and encourage high school computer science courses with AI content to teach how AI systems use data, their benefits and limitations, and responsible use in academic and personal contexts. The bill drew support from several speakers who emphasized the need for students to understand AI’s capabilities, limitations, ethics, and risks, while one speaker raised concerns about overreliance on AI and the loss of skills. Senator Davis said the bill was a good step toward preparing the future workforce and suggested earlier instruction might be worth considering later. The bill was reported favorably, and Senator Leek asked to be recorded in the affirmative. The committee then heard a long series of confirmation presentations for trustees at multiple Florida colleges and universities, including Tallahassee State College, USF, UNF, Palm Beach State College, the College of the Florida Keys, Hillsborough College, Miami-Dade College, Florida A&M University, Florida Gulf Coast University, Florida International University, New College of Florida, Florida Polytechnic University, and the University of Florida. The appointees generally emphasized student success, workforce alignment, fiscal responsibility, access and affordability, and institutional growth; several members and senators offered supportive comments, with some asking about specific issues such as Tallahassee State’s NCLEX passage rates and the need for continued improvement. One appointee’s attendance was delayed or skipped for later consideration, but the committee ultimately took a block vote and reported the confirmations favorably to the Ethics and Elections Committee. Finally, Chair Harrell gave a brief overview of the higher education budget, describing a total of $11.9 billion and highlighting increases for workforce education, Florida College System operating funds, workforce development capitalization, the Rural Incentive for Professional Educators program, the USF Center for Nursing, preeminent research universities, UCF’s community school grant program, UF’s Lassinger Center on Learning, the Florida Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment, and campus security through a postsecondary guardian program. Senator Davis asked about a transfer related to the workforce development capitalization and incentive grant fund, and the chair explained it was a transfer of an existing program with new funds being added. There was no public comment on the budget, and the meeting adjourned after Senator Leek requested to be recorded in the affirmative on SB 1694.

Transcript Highlights:

• is a standalone commission under the DFA, and they Have the expertise to be able to do that and to assess
• way to increase the precepting pool that is so necessary to grow our next generation of advanced practice
• critical role in building in-state training pipelines. and encouraging new providers to stay in practice
• I'm a family medicine resident physician practicing here in Santa Fe.
• Again, just common practice, right? Anything that has an impact to the general fund...

Committee: House House Taxation & Revenue

Keywords: 996, all

Transcript Highlights:

• This policy simply codifies current practice and puts those rules and practice into statute.
• This policy simply codifies current practice and puts those rules and practice into statute.
• So currently, in practice, in fact, all institutions have time, place, and manner restrictions now in
• So that’s what content-neutral practices are at institutions of higher education.
• And so codifying current practice and codifying rules and regulations that institutions currently have

Bills: HB2427 , HB2458 , HB2474 , HB2540 , HB2589

Committee: House Postsecondary Education & Workforce

Keywords: ink of hope act, mental health, substance use, rehabilitation, community support, Washington college grant, postsecondary education, nondegree programs, student access, financial aid, consumer protections, school closures, educational programs, student rights, emergency medical services, EMT recertification, healthcare, first responders, public health, encampments

Transcript Highlights:

• to administer my meds, what activities I could and could not participate in, and how to properly assess
• Many of my clients have been turned away from pediatric practices, just like my family has, simply for
• Practices get direct bonuses and enhanced reimbursement rates for me... ...tied to finances.
• Practices get direct bonuses and enhanced reimbursement rates from insurers and programs, often based
• What kind of medicine did you say you practice? I'm a pediatric resident. Well, Mr. Chair, Mr.

Committee: House House Regulatory Oversight Committee of Reference

Summary: The committee met for its first hearing of the session, took roll, introduced members and staff, and reviewed committee rules and amendment deadlines. The chair also announced that video recording would not be allowed in the room and set the order and speaking limits for the day’s bills. The committee heard HB 2248, the Arizona Medical Freedom Act, which would bar governmental entities, businesses, schools, and ticket issuers from denying employment, entry, services, or participation based on whether a person has or has not received a medical intervention. Supporters framed it as protecting bodily autonomy, parental rights, and freedom from medical discrimination. Opponents, including physicians, child care and public health advocates, argued the bill was overly broad and could undermine vaccination policies, school and child care illness controls, and protections for immunocompromised people. The bill passed on a 3-2 vote. The committee then heard HB 2086, which would prohibit governmental entities and businesses from requiring vaccination or masks/face coverings, with limited exceptions for workplace safety and infection control. Supporters said it would prevent government coercion and protect individual liberty and business freedom; opponents warned it would interfere with private business decisions and public health measures. After testimony and debate over the scope of the bill and the relevance of Jacobson v. Massachusetts, the committee approved HB 2086 on a 3-2 vote. Finally, the committee considered HB 2688, which would require the Arizona Department of Administration to identify state budget positions vacant for at least 150 days and direct budget units to eliminate those positions each fiscal year, with some exceptions such as Corrections and DPS. The sponsor said the bill was intended to reduce waste and prevent vacant positions from functioning as slush funds, while critics raised concerns about hard-to-fill specialized roles. The committee passed HB 2688 on a 3-2 vote and then adjourned.

Transcript Highlights:

• to administer my meds, what activities I could and could not participate in, and how to properly assess
• Many of my clients have been turned away from pediatric practices, just like my family has, simply for
• Practices get direct bonuses and enhanced reimbursement rates from insurers and programs, often based
• Practices get direct bonuses and enhanced reimbursement rates from insurers and programs, often based
• What kind of medicine did you say you practice? I'm a pediatric resident. Well, Mr. Chair, Mr.

Bills: HB2086 , HB2248 , HB2688

Committee: House Regulatory Oversight

Keywords: vaccination mandates, mask requirements, public health, government entities, COVID-19, medical freedom, healthcare mandates, employment requirements, government regulation, vacant positions, state budget, government efficiency, employment, full-time equivalent positions, 1182, all

Transcript Highlights:

• I practiced in this area for 32 years.
• </c> know me uh I'm Dr o young uh practiced know me uh I'm Dr o young uh practiced Obi<00:24:05.799><
• </c><00:53:04.480><c> our</c> like me the opportunity to assess our like me the opportunity to assess
• </c><01:45:45.679><c> abortion</c> demonstrate that in practice abortion demonstrate that in practice
• </c> points and a practical points and a practical observation<02:57:08.800><c> um</c><02:57:09.080><

Keywords: 928, house, all

Summary: The House Judiciary Committee opened with procedural remarks, including notice of an overflow room and a brief apology from Representative Andress about returning to his seat after introducing HB 114. The committee then took up HB 476, a proposed 15-week abortion ban. Chairman Lynn explained that a request to withdraw the bill had been filed, but because the bill was already scheduled for hearing, the committee would proceed with testimony and the withdrawal would require later House action. The chair also reminded witnesses to keep remarks to three minutes and asked the audience to remain respectful. Most testimony focused on abortion access, maternal health, and the likely effects of a 15-week limit. Opponents, including Nancy Pariser, Dr. Cynthia Rasmussen, Dr. Young, Bonnie Bruno, and others, argued that abortion restrictions increase maternal mortality, worsen miscarriage care, create “OB deserts,” and can delay emergency treatment in cases such as sepsis or ectopic pregnancy. Several speakers cited experiences from Texas and Georgia and warned that HB 476 contained no exceptions for rape, incest, or maternal health. Supporters of the bill, including Paul Galasso and Lynn Hill, framed abortion as the loss of unborn life and argued that 15 weeks still allows most abortions while saving lives; they also said New Hampshire’s current law is already adequate and that the bill should be strengthened rather than abandoned. Other witnesses emphasized practical and economic concerns, saying unwanted pregnancies can worsen poverty, childcare burdens, housing insecurity, and women’s lifetime earnings. Some speakers urged lawmakers to focus instead on affordable housing, childcare, and family support. No committee vote or final action on HB 476 occurred during the hearing; the meeting consisted of opening remarks and public testimony only.

Transcript Highlights:

• pre-Melissa at DHS, but in the beginning with this model, because when our clients come to us, we do an assessment
• Unsure of how to assess this workforce, 14%, and socially awkward at 10%.
• Unsure of how to assess this workforce, 14%, and socially awkward at 10%. 14% and socially awkward at
• DRTC has remained steadfast in its commitment to providing high-quality services that reflect best practices
• And so there is an assessment that has to happen, and folks with IDD can be determined that they're not

Summary: The meeting focused on integrated employment and related services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, with testimony from several provider agencies and state officials. Robin Arder and Belinda Stevens of ThinkAbility described how their organization supports people through residential services and self-created businesses because community employers often are not ready to hire people with disabilities. They said rigid service rules, difficulty fitting individuals into existing job definitions, and reimbursement requirements can prevent person-centered employment supports. They also reported that, in their experience, employees had not lost benefits when work was coordinated carefully with Social Security and benefits management. Tina Hannah of South Central Industries described a broad business model that includes manufacturing, janitorial and highway contracts, state-use products, a food truck, and an entertainment trailer, along with an adult day program and residential services. She said the organization uses a temp-service style model to make employers more comfortable and noted barriers such as employer concerns about productivity, lack of awareness of tax credits and accessibility resources, and the need for consistent job coaches. Miranda Figueroa of A New Leaf said her agency is moving toward a more person-centered model, including a Transition Academy for young adults that combines independent living instruction, community college classes, internships, and follow-along support; she said the program has an 85% placement rate but is expensive and not eligible for traditional student aid because it is not accredited. She also cited barriers including dual diagnoses, workforce readiness, and low reimbursement rates. Angela Decker and Deborah Copeland of DRTC described their long-running enclave contracts and a new Community Skills and Connection program that uses interest-based cohorts, community exploration, and volunteer experiences to build skills and networks tied to employment. They said the agency is phasing out its 14(c) subminimum wage certificate by the end of the year and is trying to expand community-based opportunities. DRTC and other providers emphasized the need to blend DDS and DRS services more effectively, reduce restrictive rules such as line-of-sight requirements, and better support people in congregate living settings. DRS representatives said the agency does provide school-based transition services, employer accommodations, and job carving support, and noted federal reporting requirements tied to wage outcomes. Members also discussed safety concerns, employer education, data collection, ABLE accounts, and the role of schools in preparing students for work and community life. The co-chairs proposed organizing the task force into three working groups: in-school/transition services, program support and service blending, and community integration/employer engagement. No votes were taken, and the meeting ended with plans for further working-group discussion and follow-up on data and policy ideas.

Transcript Highlights:

• So that kind of post-pandemic surge that we saw ending, combined with federal policies and practices,
• Really, they started to assess population in 2020.
• available on our website, mass.gov/slash a home for everyone, which is the full repository of our needs assessment
• numbers down, but this is also very well described on the Home for Everyone website under the needs assessment
• On the Home for Everyone website, under the needs assessment and future housing demand.

Committee: Senate Senate Committee on the Census

Keywords: 1212, all