Transcript Highlights:

• /c><00:02:09.920><c> subf</c><00:02:10.479><c> I</c><00:02:10.560><c> need</c><00:02:10.759><c> to</c
• ><00:02:11.120><c> is</c><00:02:11.319><c> there</c><00:02:11.480><c> a</c> 6810 sub1 subf I need to
• c><00:02:12.720><c> the</c><00:02:12.840><c> commission</c><00:02:13.200><c> go</c><00:02:13.400><c>
• 14.239><c> session</c><00:02:14.920><c> to</c><00:02:15.160><c> discuss</c><00:02:15.560><c> personel
• :19.720><c> second</c><00:02:20.480><c> motion</c><00:02:20.800><c> made</c><00:02:21.040><c> and</c>

Summary: The meeting briefly returned to open session to clarify the record, with a statement that all discussions in closed session were limited to confidential complaints and that no final agency action was taken during that closed session. The body then considered a motion to enter closed/executive session under KRS 61.810(1)(f) to discuss personnel matters. A motion was made and seconded to go into executive session for personnel issues, and the chair called for an aye vote. The transcript ends shortly after the motion was presented, with no further substantive discussion or final action captured in the excerpt.

Transcript Highlights:

• </c><00:02:02.079><c> Uh</c><00:02:02.320><c> we</c><00:02:02.560><c> serve</c><00:02:02.880><c> a</c
• </c><00:02:06.159><c> It</c><00:02:06.320><c> is</c><00:02:06.399><c> who</c><00:02:06.560><c> we</c>
• 00:02:08.080><c> very</c><00:02:08.239><c> proud</c><00:02:08.479><c> of</c><00:02:08.640><c> that.
• </c><00:02:32.560><c> And</c><00:02:32.720><c> so,</c><00:02:32.879><c> we</c><00:02:33.120><c> are</
• And so, we are we are<00:02:33.680><c> glad</c><00:02:33.840><c> to</c><00:02:34.000><c> be</c><00:02

Summary: The House Budget Review Subcommittee on Postsecondary Education met to begin hearing budget requests from Kentucky universities. Eastern Kentucky University President David McFaden highlighted EKU’s enrollment growth, its large population of Pell-eligible and first-generation students, and its role in producing graduates for Kentucky’s workforce, especially in health care, public safety, manufacturing, engineering, and aviation. He said EKU is seeking support for a Center for Health Innovation, including a doctor of osteopathic medicine program, with a $50 million accreditation escrow and startup funding that would be returned to the state after accreditation. He also described EKU’s health programs, which have strong pass rates and high in-state employment outcomes, and said the university wants continued asset preservation funding, inflationary operating support, and other recurring budget items. McFaden also outlined EKU’s aviation request, including $10 million for new aircraft and support for an enhanced air traffic control program created in response to a legislative study. He said the program would enroll cohorts of about 30 students, likely attract out-of-state students, and require a $5 million startup investment plus $1.5 million in annual recurring support. He added that EKU’s lab school is seeking a revised funding model tied to enrollment rather than a flat mandated amount. Committee members asked follow-up questions about the medical school escrow, aircraft needs, and program capacity, and McFaden clarified that the escrow would remain intact until accreditation and then be returned to the general fund. Kentucky State University President Kakpo then reviewed prior capital support that helped repair a dorm and several leaking roofs, and said the university is still addressing campus infrastructure problems. He said KSU’s main request is a new health sciences building to house its growing nursing program and language program, along with $40 million for additional dorm renovations and a carve-out for its aquaculture program. Kakpo said the aquaculture PhD proposal would be federally funded and could bring in more revenue, while the new building would help relieve overcrowding and support KSU’s research role. In response to questions, he said KSU’s campus housing capacity would be about 1,334 beds if all dorms were repaired, and that the university is rotating students through renovated buildings while trying to keep them on campus. Committee members also raised safety concerns about the December campus shooting at KSU. Kakpo said the incident was isolated, expressed sympathy for the families affected, and said the university has reviewed campus procedures, added police and security positions, and is strengthening safety processes. The meeting did not include any votes or formal actions; it was a budget presentation and question-and-answer session.

Transcript Highlights:

• Been<00:02:02.120><c> flying</c><00:02:02.520><c> for</c><00:02:02.640><c> about</c><00:02:02.920><c>
• 25</c><00:02:03.520><c> years</c><00:02:04.000><c> and</c><00:02:04.360><c> I</c><00:02:04.479><c> can
• ><c> that</c><00:02:05.400><c> as</c><00:02:05.640><c> of</c><00:02:05.760><c> today</c><00:02:06.120
• </c><00:02:16.640><c> getting</c><00:02:16.880><c> to</c><00:02:17.000><c> know</c><00:02:17.200><c>
• they have<00:02:20.760><c> on</c><00:02:21.120><c> on</c><00:02:21.280><c> the</c><00:02:21.400><c>

Summary: The task force was called to order with a quorum present, and Commissioner Mark Carter of the Kentucky Department of Aviation gave the first presentation. He outlined the state’s airport system, noting 58 public-use airports, the department’s small staff, and its funding structure through a jet fuel tax that generates about $23 million annually, leaving roughly $15 million for airport investment after required deductions. Carter highlighted recent projects at airports including Bardstown, Madisonville, Central Kentucky Regional, Paducah, Sparta, Danville, and Henderson, and said the department has also expanded data collection on airport activity, hangars, schools, and training programs. He emphasized that the department recently completed the first statewide economic impact study of general aviation airports and is developing a five-year airport needs plan. Carter said several things are working well, including stronger communication with airports, the public, the legislature, and especially the FAA’s Memphis district office, which now involves the state more in project selection. He said the department is reasonably staffed overall, but identified workforce development and advanced air mobility as major gaps. In response to questions from Senator Nunn and Representative York, he said he did not have specific workforce shortage numbers on hand, but cited Boeing reports showing large national and global shortages of pilots and mechanics, and explained that instructor shortages and low wages limit training capacity. He also said air traffic control is an FAA function, though EKU has shown interest in developing a training program. Carter identified several needs for improvement: more workforce investment, more aviation education in high schools, more scholarships for pilot and mechanic training, more attention to advanced air mobility, and more frequent, institutionalized data collection. He also pointed to major pending capital needs at airports such as Elizabethtown, Owensboro, Harlan, Leitchfield-Grayson County, and Whitesburg-Letcher County, all of which would require FAA and state support. He urged airports to do a better job marketing their economic value and said the state should continue updating aviation studies so lawmakers have current information for policy decisions. The task force then heard from Lexington Blue Grass Airport Director Eric Frankl, who welcomed the new CVG director and thanked the legislature for creating the task force and supporting aviation infrastructure. Frankl said Blue Grass Airport has rebounded from the pandemic and now exceeds pre-pandemic passenger levels, while serving a mix of private aviation, pilot training, corporate aviation, and commercial airline activity. He described ongoing terminal-area planning, parking technology upgrades, and a major parking lot expansion expected to finish by early spring 2026, and said the airport is planning for future technologies such as vertiports and electric aerial vehicles. Frankl estimated that a broader terminal modernization program will cost roughly $500 million to $700 million over the next 5 to 10 years and said the airport needs continued state support to close funding gaps and remain competitive with other states investing in aviation.

Transcript Highlights:

• Members, The Chaplain for today is Pastor Noah Mooney from Eagle Brook Church in Maplewood, Minnesota
• There being no quorum under the Constitution of the State of Minnesota, the House is adjourned until

Transcript Highlights:

• :11.959><c> say</c><00:02:12.280><c> the</c><00:02:12.440><c> say</c><00:02:12.640><c> the</c><00:02:
• 00:02:14.080><c> thinking</c><00:02:14.360><c> of</c><00:02:14.599><c> so</c><00:02:15.080><c> that</
• c><00:02:25.040><c> mind</c><00:02:25.400><c> go</c><00:02:25.560><c> ahead</c><00:02:26.160><c> and<
• 35.160><c> yep</c><00:02:35.319><c> there</c><00:02:35.440><c> you</c><00:02:35.560><c> go</c><00:02:
• </c><00:02:37.360><c> the</c><00:02:37.440><c> commissioner</c><00:02:37.879><c> for</c><00:02:38.040

Summary: The Budget Review Subcommittee on Health and Family Services held its first meeting and received an overview from the Department for Medicaid Services on Medicaid’s behavioral health and substance use disorder services. Commissioner Lisa Lee and CFO Steve Beal said Kentucky Medicaid serves about 1.4 million members, including over half of Kentucky children, with 485,000 expansion members, more than 69,000 enrolled providers, and total fiscal year 2024 expenditures of $18.5 billion. They said Kentucky covers a broad range of behavioral health services, and behavioral health provider enrollment has grown from a little over 4,500 in 2019 to nearly 8,000 in 2024. They also described how Medicaid spending and utilization are tracked through claims and encounter data, with most members served through managed care organizations. Members focused on sharp increases in certain behavioral health billing codes, especially peer-to-peer services, and asked about reimbursement, utilization review, and whether the growth reflected increased need or expanded coverage. DMS said the rise was partly tied to combining facility and nonfacility behavioral health fee schedules in 2023, choosing the higher reimbursement rate to avoid cuts, and that the department has seen an uptick in peer-to-peer services. In response to concerns about overutilization, DMS said it mailed a letter to behavioral health providers, is considering limits and prior authorizations for some services, and plans to create a standardized monthly behavioral health report to monitor trends consistently and identify when controls may be needed. Lawmakers also asked whether the provider network is sufficient and whether access is adequate, especially for children. DMS said provider enrollment has expanded because behavioral health services were added to Medicaid in 2014 and because demand increased after COVID, but acknowledged studies showing children have less access than adults and said that would be an area of focus. The department said managed care organizations are required to ensure access to needed services and that current trends indicate access is available, though one member disagreed and said workforce shortages remain a major concern. Another member asked about non-emergency medical transportation spending, and DMS explained that it is handled through a capitated arrangement administered by the Transportation Cabinet rather than directly by the managed care organizations.

Transcript Highlights:

• Karen<00:02:13.240><c> Knudsen,</c><00:02:13.840><c> for</c><00:02:14.000><c> four</c><00:02:14.200><
• ><c> at</c><00:02:19.160><c> the</c><00:02:19.320><c> East-West</c><00:02:19.840><c> Center,</c><00:02
• Upon<00:02:27.400><c> Upon</c><00:02:27.720><c> her</c><00:02:27.840><c> retirement</c><00:02:28.440>
• </c><00:02:31.440><c> uh</c><00:02:31.640><c> served</c><00:02:32.000><c> as</c><00:02:32.160><c> an<
• </c><00:02:53.200><c> Is</c><00:02:53.280><c> there</c><00:02:53.400><c> anyone</c><00:02:53.640><c>

Committee: Senate Water, Land, Culture and the Arts

Summary: The committee heard several gubernatorial nominations for confirmation, beginning with GM 788 for Karen Knudsen to the Hawaii Sister State and International Partnerships Commission. DBEDT strongly supported her nomination, describing her decades of Asia-Pacific and East-West Center experience. Senators asked about the new commission structure, confirming that the old committee was abolished and replaced by a five-voting-member commission with two governor appointees before the Senate, other ex officio and legislative appointees, and one OHA vacancy still pending. Knudsen said the commission would help review new sister-state and international partnership proposals, while existing relationships would remain in place. Members also discussed the commission’s lack of a separate budget and its use of DBEDT international relations funding. The committee then moved to GM 789 for Wesley Fong to the same commission; DBEDT supported him based on his military, legal, and international trade background. A concern was raised that he also served on the State Ethics Commission, and Fong stated he had resigned from that post effective the 20th of the month to avoid a conflict. Senators questioned his reasons for leaving ethics, and he explained that his term was ending and he wanted to continue public service in a role aligned with his background in international agreements, education, and Indo-Pacific relations. No votes were taken in the portion provided. The committee next considered GM 769 for Patrick Branco to the State Foundation on Culture and the Arts. The foundation and the Hawaii Regional Council of Carpenters both testified in strong support. Branco appeared by Zoom and said he was currently on temporary military orders on the East Coast, but had prior experience in public diplomacy as cultural attaché in Caracas and had worked on Fulbright and cultural exchange efforts. The committee then took up GM 770 for Makanani Salā to the same board. The State Foundation on Culture and the Arts supported her nomination, and Noe Wong-Wilson testified in person, citing Salā’s work at Windward Community College and her role in organizing the Best Fest festival, saying she would bring Hawaiian cultural perspective to the foundation. Salā said her county experience included arts, culture, and sister-city work, and that she would emphasize public-private partnerships and helping other agencies use the foundation’s expertise. Members briefly discussed FESTPAC and its rotating international location. Finally, the committee heard GM 767 for Miles Miyatso to the Land Use Commission. The Land Use Commission and the Hawaii Regional Council of Carpenters both supported the nomination, and Avalon Development Company was listed but did not appear on Zoom. The discussion in the provided transcript ended during this item, with no vote or final action shown for the nominations covered.

Transcript Highlights:

• We should try<00:02:20.000><c> to</c><00:02:20.080><c> help</c><00:02:20.320><c> our</c><00:02:20.440
• </c><00:02:22.959><c> Any</c><00:02:23.160><c> other</c><00:02:23.880><c> comments</c><00:02:24.160><
• Uh<00:02:27.360><c> for</c><00:02:27.480><c> JDC</c><00:02:27.920><c> on</c><00:02:28.080><c> SB</c><
• Recommendation<00:02:32.120><c> to</c><00:02:32.160><c> pass</c><00:02:32.440><c> on</c><00:02:32.520
• Recommendation<00:02:46.240><c> is</c><00:02:46.360><c> to</c><00:02:46.440><c> pass</c><00:02:46.720

Summary: The committees met in decision-making sessions and considered a long list of Senate bills, with no oral testimony taken. Several measures were advanced unamended, including SB 2178 on industrial hemp, SB 2277 on hospital price transparency, SB 2387 on digital financial asset transaction kiosks, SB 2688 on compassionate release, SB 3132 on syndromic surveillance data reporting, SB 3219 on housing infrastructure growth bonds, and others. Many bills were also advanced with technical or substantive amendments, including SB 2114 on collective bargaining grievance rights, SB 2601 on procurement penalties, SB 2698 on cruise ships/transportation, SB 2757 on digital asset charters, SB 2948 on insurance fraud, SB 2002 on water governance, SB 2022 on state water code penalties, SB 2190 on inclusionary zoning, SB 3294 on wrongful imprisonment compensation, and SB 17, SB 2407, SB 2811, SB 2907, SB 2930, SB 3084, SB 3103, and SB 2808 in the later agenda segment. The committee also discussed SB 2080, relating to the psychology interjurisdictional compact, where one senator objected to interstate compacts as opening local jobs to out-of-state professionals; despite that objection, the measure was adopted. SB 3133 on preventive medicine drew amendment discussion to remove unnecessary language about committee members not being state employees and to delete an immunity subsection, while preserving ethics-code coverage and provider immunity. SB 3000 on insurance was amended to remove a savings clause, and SB 2921 on fund transfers received extensive amendments removing or revising numerous special funds and revolving accounts across agencies. Most votes were unanimous or near-unanimous, often with members present voting aye or with reservations. A few measures drew recorded no votes or reservations, including SB 2080, SB 3133, SB 2921, and SB 2401, where one member voted with reservations and the committee report was to reflect the Attorney General’s comments. In each case, the committee adopted the recommendation and moved the bills forward.

Transcript Highlights:

• :14.280><c> got</c><00:02:14.599><c> attacked</c><00:02:15.239><c> by</c><00:02:15.440><c> two</c><00
• <00:02:16.599><c> on</c><00:02:16.920><c> my</c><00:02:17.599><c> property</c><00:02:18.920><c> personally
• </c><00:02:24.840><c> that</c><00:02:25.000><c> I</c><00:02:25.239><c> also</c><00:02:25.760><c> have
• going<00:02:48.200><c> on</c><00:02:48.680><c> hbd</c><00:02:49.480><c> gave</c><00:02:50.200><c> the
• ><c> knowing</c><00:02:54.480><c> it</c><00:02:54.720><c> attacked</c><00:02:55.280><c> a</c><00:02:55.519

Committee: Senate Agriculture and Environment

Summary: The committee heard two measures relating to dogs and coconut trees. On SB 301 SD1, which would add penalties for dog owners whose dogs destroy property on land zoned for a use, testimony was overwhelmingly supportive. Ranchers, farmers, and other testifiers described dogs attacking livestock, trespassing on property, and in some cases injuring people and killing goats or chickens. Several speakers urged stronger penalties, owner accountability, and in some cases insurance requirements. The Hawaii Farm Bureau also supported the bill, saying it would strengthen existing law and help protect agricultural producers. The committee noted there were 13 testimonies in support, none opposed, and no comments. The committee then heard SB 1582, which recognizes the coconut palm as an official sustainable staple food source in the state. Testimony was uniformly supportive from DLNR, the Hawaii Farm Bureau, Niu Now, and individual speakers who described the cultural, spiritual, and practical importance of niu/coconut in Hawaiian life, as well as its value as a food source and the need to protect it from the coconut rhinoceros beetle. Several speakers also emphasized biosecurity and continued funding for invasive species control. The committee stated there were 20 testimonies in support, none opposed, and no comments. In decision making, the committee recommended both measures be passed as is. SB 301 SD1 was adopted with four votes in favor and one no vote. SB 1582 was adopted unanimously, with five votes in favor.

Transcript Highlights:

• amendment recommended<00:02:02.360><c> by</c><00:02:02.560><c> the</c><00:02:02.680><c> Committee</c
• by the Committee on Commerce and<00:02:04.000><c> Economic</c><00:02:04.520><c> Development</c><00:02
• Please listen to<00:02:15.720><c> the</c><00:02:15.840><c> second</c><00:02:16.200><c> reading</c><00
• :02:16.440><c> of</c><00:02:16.560><c> the</c><00:02:16.640><c> bill.
• </c> &gt;&gt; Thank<00:02:30.480><c> you,</c><00:02:30.560><c> Madam</c><00:02:30.800><c> Speaker.

Transcript Highlights:

• our<00:02:09.879><c> older</c><00:02:10.200><c> American</c><00:02:10.520><c> act</c><00:02:10.840><
• c> use</c><00:02:12.760><c> the</c><00:02:12.959><c> same</c><00:02:13.640><c> factors</c><00:02:14.040
• :02:18.239><c> a</c><00:02:18.440><c> fair</c><00:02:18.800><c> and</c><00:02:19.000><c> Equitable</c
• c> and</c><00:02:20.720><c> there's</c><00:02:21.080><c> three</c><00:02:21.440><c> minimum</c><00:02
• c><00:02:24.360><c> to</c><00:02:24.560><c> look</c><00:02:24.760><c> at</c><00:02:25.400><c> the</c>

Summary: The Committee on Health and Human Services held an informational briefing on Kupuna Care funding, distribution, utilization, and the status of program rules. The Office of Aging explained that state Kupuna Care funds are distributed using the same federally approved interstate funding formula used for Older Americans Act funds, with eight weighted factors tailored to Hawaii’s conditions: older adults, greatest economic need, low-income minority status, disability, language barriers, geographic isolation, inverse population density, and older adults living alone in poverty. The department said the formula is based on census and American Community Survey data, with current county shares listed as Kauai 7.45%, Honolulu 69.61%, Maui 11.7%, and Hawaii County 17.88%. Officials said the formula is being reviewed with current data and will need federal approval and then public hearing before final adoption. Members questioned how the program works in practice, noting that the statute and eligibility language can sound like direct individual benefits even though services are delivered through area agencies on aging, ADRCs, and contracted providers such as meal and adult day care programs. The Office of Aging said ADRCs determine eligibility and then refer clients to authorized providers, who must meet service standards in their contracts. The chair pressed repeatedly for long-delayed rules, saying the Legislature had expected them years earlier and that clear rules are needed to ensure funds are spent properly and to avoid conflicts of interest. The department acknowledged the delay, said draft rules were written in 2023 after earlier commitments to finish sooner, and said it paused while federal Older Americans Act rules were being updated; it now expects to send the rules to the Deputy Attorney General, then out for public hearing, with a goal of completion in 2025. The department also reported utilization data for the last two fiscal years. In 2023, it expended about 93% of its allocation and served 5,473 older adults at an average annual cost of $1,358; in 2024, it expended about 97% and served 5,520 older adults, with the average cost down by about $200, which officials said may indicate fewer services per person. Eligibility was described as age 60 or older, U.S. citizen or qualified alien, with cognitive impairment or disability and functional deficits, and the statewide profile showed many participants were homebound, living alone, or below poverty. The most-used services were transportation, case management, and home-delivered meals. The chair also asked about the former Kupuna caregiver program; officials said the programs are now combined under Kupuna Care, with most funding going to adult day care to provide respite for working caregivers. County representatives then described local conditions, especially on Hawaii Island. Hawaii County officials said the county covers about 5,000 square miles, has about 208,000 residents, and roughly 24% are age 65 or older. They identified three main challenges: staffing shortages and retention problems among providers, shortages within the county department itself, and the loss of adult day care capacity, with only one center remaining on the island and none on the west side. They said these constraints limit service delivery even as demand grows. At the same time, they highlighted successes such as serving people in the community before they need higher levels of care, providing caregiver counseling and training through adult day care, serving 467 individuals locally, and ensuring the Resource Center answers calls from caregivers seeking help.

Transcript Highlights:

• It<00:02:00.120><c> does</c><00:02:00.240><c> not</c><00:02:00.520><c> count</c><00:02:00.760><c> as<
• /c><00:02:00.840><c> a</c><00:02:00.880><c> missed</c><00:02:01.200><c> vote</c><00:02:01.520><c> if<
• </c><00:02:02.480><c> It</c><00:02:02.560><c> is</c><00:02:02.680><c> not</c><00:02:02.840><c> a</c><
• </c><00:02:07.360><c> So,</c><00:02:07.640><c> we</c><00:02:07.760><c> tried</c><00:02:08.039><c> to<
• 00:02:08.880><c> stuff</c><00:02:09.160><c> off</c><00:02:09.360><c> that</c><00:02:09.479><c> was</c

Summary: The Senate first outlined its plan to clear pending concurrence items, focusing on Senate bills with House amendments and not taking up unamended House bills. Members then approved several motions not to concur with House amendments, including Senate Bills 514, 626, and 866, with the clerk reading the formal Senate messages in each case. The chamber also addressed an excused-vote question, with the presiding officer explaining that excused votes do not count as missed votes. The Senate then concurred in House amendments and passed a series of Senate bills, including SB 11 on campaign finance reporting and the Fair Campaign Financing Fund, SB 164 on the Pamela J. Kelly Tree Maryland program, SB 266 on local regulation of invasive trees, SB 509 on workforce Pell Grant implementation, SB 553 reestablishing the lithium-ion battery safety commission, SB 581 on statewide technology master plan reporting, SB 670 on polling-place authority, SB 848 on municipal election reporting, and SB 940 on water quality testing. Most of these House amendments were described as technical, clarifying, or conforming changes, and each bill received the required constitutional majority on final passage. The chamber also took up House Bill 862, a rail safety bill requiring certain freight trains to have crews of at least two under specified interstate conditions. After questions from the minority leader about the bill’s trigger conditions and effect on an Eastern Shore rail line, a senator explained support for the measure and the bill passed with 33 affirmative votes. Additional special-order House bills passed as well, including HB 497 on protective order durations, HB 552 establishing a commission on the House of Reformation and Instruction for Colored Children, and HB 573 on fair housing and discriminatory effect standards. Later, the Senate continued with more concurrence items from Finance, including SB 22 on Department of Disabilities housing programs, SB 412 on forensic review boards and community forensic aftercare, SB 413 on morticians and funeral directors board operations, SB 496 on Medicaid coverage for obesity treatment, SB 555 on dementia services and brain health resources, and SB 579 on no-cost preventive cancer screening for retired volunteer firefighters. These bills were generally amended in the House with clarifying or conforming changes, and the Senate adopted the amendments and passed the bills by constitutional majority.

Transcript Highlights:

• :02:17.960><c> issue</c><01:02:18.880><c> to</c><01:02:19.079><c> move</c><01:02:19.319><c> forward</
• </c><01:02:23.839><c> and</c><01:02:24.119><c> strong</c><01:02:24.319><c> support</c><01:02:24.839><
• <01:02:29.599><c> a</c><01:02:29.799><c> scope</c><01:02:30.119><c> of</c><01:02:30.400><c> practice<
• to practice<01:02:34.920><c> to</c><01:02:35.079><c> the</c><01:02:35.319><c> full</c><01:02:35.920>
• drugs to do diagnosis<01:02:45.559><c> um</c><01:02:46.000><c> to</c><01:02:47.000><c> um</c><01:02:

Transcript Highlights:

• </c><00:02:06.439><c> fiscal</c><00:02:06.920><c> year</c><00:02:07.680><c> 26</c><00:02:08.239><c> 27
• 00:02:13.400><c> office</c><00:02:13.920><c> uh</c><00:02:14.080><c> one</c><00:02:14.280><c> and</c>
• ><c> uh</c><00:02:22.760><c> is</c><00:02:22.840><c> it</c><00:02:23.000><c> an</c><00:02:23.200><c>
• of<00:02:30.400><c> fact</c><00:02:30.640><c> I</c><00:02:30.760><c> think</c><00:02:30.959><c> we</
• ><c> the</c><00:02:32.959><c> existing</c><00:02:33.519><c> offices</c><00:02:34.040><c> we</c><00:02

Summary: The joint hearing covered three measures on the 1 p.m. agenda. SB 817, relating to out-of-state offices, drew support from DBEDT and several community groups, with questions focused on the requested funding, staffing level, whether the office would expand broadly, and whether the Philippines was being singled out. SB 1578, relating to international affairs, received support from DBEDT and the Attorney General, with the chair noting the bill was intended to help DBEDT analyze Hawaii’s international partnerships and plan next steps. SB 1639, establishing Hawaii Beach Day, had limited testimony and was moved along without substantive debate. SB 582, relating to DBEDT, was also heard with support from state agencies and a few individuals, and was described as a vehicle for organizational and funding changes affecting the State Foundation on Culture and the Arts, including moving some positions and programming to general funds and narrowing the works-of-art special fund's uses. The committees then took up recommendations. All three measures were advanced with amendments: SB 817 was amended to include technical changes and a defective effective date of July 1, 2025; SB 1578 was amended to address the Attorney General’s concerns, make the commission subject to Senate confirmation, and add technical changes and a defective date; and SB 582 was amended to incorporate provisions from SB 1577, clarify SFCA authority over performing arts, shift SFCA positions and programming to general funds, restrict the works-of-art special fund, and add a defective date. Each committee voted to adopt the chair’s recommendations, with no reservations or no votes noted in the Transportation and Culture and the Arts committee and only Senator Dela Cruz voting no on SB 817 there; in the Economic Development and Tourism committee, SB 817 passed with Senator Kim in reservation and Senator Awa voting no, while SB 1578 and SB 582 passed with Senator Awa voting no. The later 10:00 a.m. agenda hearing focused on SB 1589, relating to the stadium development special fund, and SB 1629, relating to taxation. On SB 1589, the Attorney General asked for clarification of section 3, particularly the proviso about remaining monies lapsing to the general fund if the New Aloha Stadium Entertainment District is terminated before completion; the interim stadium manager explained the bill would allow spending of $49.5 million already in the special fund for consultant, construction management, quality assurance, and contingency costs. On SB 1629, testimony was sharply divided: supporters, including film industry and business representatives, said the measure would support local film production, restore prior GET treatment, and help attract studio development; opponents argued the bill was vague, overly favorable to a specific project, and lacked oversight and accountability. The hearing ended with extensive questioning about whether the bill was effectively tailored to a particular studio project and how it related to other film tax credit measures, but no final committee action on SB 1589 or SB 1629 was included in the transcript excerpt.

Transcript Highlights:

• 02:12.720><c> of</c><00:02:12.840><c> Havi</c><00:02:13.319><c> Water</c><00:02:13.640><c> Resources<
• ><c> Center</c><00:02:15.560><c> and</c><00:02:15.720><c> this</c><00:02:15.920><c> will</c><00:02:16.080
• ><00:02:33.239><c> so</c><00:02:33.440><c> our</c><00:02:33.640><c> first</c><00:02:34.280><c> testifier
• ><c> we</c><00:02:35.959><c> have</c><00:02:36.360><c> two</c><00:02:36.760><c> four</c><00:02:37.239
• </c><00:02:58.440><c> of</c><00:02:58.560><c> the</c><00:02:58.640><c> Department</c><00:02:58.959><c

Summary: The committee heard testimony on Senate Bill 1232, which would create a three-year wastewater technology testing pilot program at the University of Hawaiʻi Water Resources Research Center and coordinate testing with state and county agencies. The Department of Health, the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands, and University of Hawaiʻi representatives supported the bill, saying it would help certify new wastewater technologies, lower costs for cesspool conversions, and provide data to the Department of Health. Testifiers said the prior testing effort ended after the departure of Dr. Roger Babcock, and that the new program would use National Sanitation Foundation standards, graduate students, and local wastewater facilities such as Wahiawa. Committee members asked about the $750,000 total cost, the scope of existing research, prior test sites, and whether the program would be tied to individuals or a permanent program. One member raised concerns about the fairness and data basis for sewer conversion decisions in local communities, and the University said it would follow national standards and share results openly. The committee then took up Senate Bill 686, relating to a short-term management initiative for coconut rhinoceros beetle response and related appropriations. The Department of Agriculture and the University of Hawaiʻi testified in support, while a county representative and other advocates urged broader statewide coverage, including Kauaʻi, and asked that appropriated funds be usable on any island. Testimony emphasized the need for immediate action, outreach, tree-trimmer training, canopy treatments, K-9 inspections, container fumigation, and biocontrol research. A member summarized the bill’s funding components, including amounts for training, residential palm treatments, response teams, inspections, fumigation, and research, and noted the importance of directing money toward on-the-ground response. Committee questions focused on how much funding remained available, how the agencies would coordinate with DOA, whether the department was prepared to manage all the bill’s functions, and how infestations were being communicated to the public. Finally, the committee began hearing Senate Bill 657, which would appropriate funds for the University of Hawaiʻi School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology’s Center for Climate Resilient Development. The Department of Land and Natural Resources testified in strong support, and the Department of Health also supported the measure, noting that it relies on the center’s data to inform decisions and recommendations on projects. The discussion on this item was brief in the portion provided, with no vote or final action shown.

Transcript Highlights:

• </c><00:02:05.120><c> Um</c><00:02:05.400><c> that</c><00:02:05.720><c> group</c><00:02:06.080><c> has
• :02:07.920><c> times</c><00:02:08.600><c> where</c><00:02:08.840><c> we</c><00:02:09.080><c> have</c>
• :02:24.600><c> and</c><00:02:24.760><c> then</c><00:02:24.959><c> last</c><00:02:25.360><c> week</c><
• We're also um scoped<00:02:30.240><c> to</c><00:02:30.440><c> talk</c><00:02:30.800><c> to</c><00:02:
• :02:32.560><c> coming</c><00:02:32.959><c> weeks</c><00:02:33.480><c> to</c><00:02:33.600><c> be</c><

Committee: Joint Technology

Transcript Highlights:

• </c><00:02:13.680><c> And</c><00:02:14.080><c> uh</c><00:02:14.560><c> as</c><00:02:14.879><c> I'm</c
• ><00:02:15.040><c> going</c><00:02:15.120><c> to</c><00:02:15.280><c> show</c><00:02:15.440><c> you</
• </c><00:02:20.239><c> And</c><00:02:20.720><c> uh</c><00:02:21.680><c> um</c><00:02:22.239><c> I</c><
• ><00:02:24.720><c> that</c><00:02:25.040><c> you</c><00:02:25.280><c> all</c><00:02:25.599><c> have</
• :43.280><c> Jud</c><00:02:43.599><c> as</c><00:02:43.760><c> you</c><00:02:43.920><c> know</c><00:02:

Summary: The Budget Subcommittee on Economic Development, Tourism, and Environmental Protection received a detailed update from Kentucky State Parks Commissioner Meyer on capital projects funded through HJR 76, HJR 56, and House Bill 6. He said the department is making steady progress on a large portfolio of park improvements, with regular quarterly reporting to the legislature and ongoing coordination with the Finance Cabinet, the Energy and Environment Cabinet, the Commonwealth Office of Technology, and local utilities and governments. He emphasized that ADA accessibility is a priority across projects and noted that many completed items, including campground bathhouse renovations, broadband upgrades, life safety improvements, playground replacements, and some furniture and mattress upgrades, are already drawing positive feedback. The presentation focused heavily on campground, utility, and infrastructure work. Meyer described $40 million in campground upgrades split between western and eastern Kentucky, including projects at Ken Lake, Carter Caves, My Old Kentucky Home, Cumberland Falls, and others. He also outlined $20 million in utility improvements, including a federal matching grant for grid resiliency at Ken Lake and Kentucky Dam Village, plus wastewater and electrical infrastructure work at parks such as Dale Hollow, Blue Licks, Natural Bridge, and Cumberland Falls. Additional categories included building systems, life safety, structural repairs, accommodations and hospitality upgrades, pool and beach work, dam safety, playgrounds, and golf course improvements. Members asked about the status of Lake Barkley utilities, the possibility of transferring upgraded utility infrastructure to local providers after repairs, and how park repair priorities are set. Meyer said park managers report issues through regional directors and that projects are prioritized through a running capital list, similar to a long-range transportation plan. He said the department has already spent the current $20 million allocation and is requesting $40 million in the next budget cycle, adding that the department believes it could spend and complete projects if that amount is appropriated. The commissioner also said the department is managing 284 additional capital projects outside the main funding streams, totaling nearly $70 million.

Transcript Highlights:

• </c><00:02:41.200><c> and</c><00:02:41.519><c> Alana</c><00:02:42.000><c> Lee,</c><00:02:42.400><c> the
• president<00:02:43.599><c> of</c><00:02:43.840><c> the</c><00:02:44.160><c> Federation</c><00:02:44.640
• On behalf of myself, Delegate<00:02:49.280><c> Mark</c><00:02:49.599><c> Chang,</c><00:02:50.000><c>
• Mark Chang, and the AAPI caucus,<00:02:52.080><c> uh,</c><00:02:52.319><c> please</c><00:02:52.879><
• c> uh,</c><00:02:53.040><c> welcome</c><00:02:53.280><c> them</c><00:02:53.519><c> to</c> caucus, uh,

Transcript Highlights:

• &gt;&gt; And<00:02:02.960><c> on</c><00:02:03.200><c> that</c><00:02:03.360><c> note,</c><00:02:04.000
• &gt;&gt; Glad<00:02:27.360><c> to</c><00:02:27.520><c> have</c><00:02:27.599><c> her</c><00:02:27.760
• Um, let's<00:02:29.920><c> open</c><00:02:29.996><c> [clears throat]</c><00:02:30.160><c> up</c><00:02
• Our<00:02:36.080><c> dear</c><00:02:36.319><c> heavenly</c><00:02:36.720><c> father,</c><00:02:37.280
• c><00:02:46.480><c> would</c><00:02:46.640><c> help</c><00:02:46.879><c> us</c><00:02:47.040><c> to</

Committee: House County and Municipal Government

Transcript Highlights:

• <01:02:18.960><c> I'm</c><01:02:19.200><c> not</c><01:02:19.359><c> sure</c><01:02:19.520><c> what</c
• I'm<01:02:22.400><c> also</c><01:02:22.720><c> not</c><01:02:22.880><c> sure</c><01:02:23.040><c> why
• ><c> I</c><01:02:25.040><c> I</c><01:02:25.200><c> think</c><01:02:25.760><c> to</c><01:02:25.920><c>
• :02:29.280><c> someone</c><01:02:29.520><c> came</c><01:02:29.680><c> with</c><01:02:29.760><c> a</c>
• </c><01:02:39.040><c> We</c><01:02:39.200><c> had</c><01:02:39.280><c> a</c><01:02:39.520><c> second.

Committee: Senate Judiciary

Transcript Highlights:

• From Delano, Minnesota. Pledge of Allegiance.
• that you will support the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the state of Minnesota