Video & Transcript Research : 'cursive writing'
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TX
Transcript Highlights:
- She also writes for Press Club in Washington, D.C.
- Depto reduced to writing and placed in the journal. Members, you've heard the motion.
- Johnson's motion to reduce the dialogue to writing and place it in the journal.
- I move to reduce the writing and place in the journal the discussion on SB 2420. Thank you.
- To write the law differently for similar actions doesn't make sense. That's bad drafting.
Bills:
SB17, SB1569, SB2420, HB5138, HJR161, HB1937, HB3334, HB5444, HB5137, HB361, HB321, HB5447, HB464, HB678, HB2294, HB4172, HB3225, HB1769, HB5394, HB1837, HB1787, HB2271, HB2440, HB5134, HB5149, HB2151, HB2073, HB2186, HB2025, HB1936, HB1777, HB1663, HB 1306, HB 1290, HB1527, HB4802, HB3462, HB2963, HB2462, HB2560, HB644, HB2725, HB2621, HB2588, HB1443, HB1403, HB3032, HB1557, HB1664, HB2811, HB2088, HB2598, HB3062, HB3134, HB3940, HB4027, HB4097, HB4862, HB4170, HB4157, HB4205, HB4279, HB4377, HB4838, HB5424, HB5294, HB4870, HB4763, HB5639, HB4112, HB2275, HB1677, HB5014, HB3848, HB3797, HB3727, HB3709, HB3177, HB3057, HB4176, HB4202, HB2180, HB3528, HB3658, HCR76, HCR127
Keywords:
foreign ownership, real property, national security, criminal penalties, civil penalties, personal information, higher education, privacy protection, governing board, institutional security, software applications, mobile devices, age verification, parental consent, data protection, app store regulation, HJR 161, Texas constitutional amendment, voting rights, non-citizen voting
Summary:
The House convened with a quorum, received the invocation and pledges, and heard several announcements and recognitions before moving into floor action. Members honored the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley chess team for winning a share of the 2025 President’s Cup, recognized educator Jessica Lopez, and paid memorial tribute to Jennifer Maddenly, along with recognitions for Jeanette Valdez Duran’s food pantry work, TAMACC’s 50th anniversary, and Bernardine Steptoe’s retirement from WFAA. The House also granted permission for committees to meet while the House was in session, set a local consent calendar, and suspended posting rules for a Public Health Committee hearing on SB 2721.
The chamber then considered a long series of Senate and House bills, with many passing on record votes. Measures addressed local law enforcement authority (SB 906), veterans highway designation (SB 1229), foster care medical billing (SB 855), massage therapy trafficking safeguards (SB 703), tax ballot language (SB 1025), occupational licensing for people with convictions (SB 1080), lien deadlines (SB 929), liquor sales complaints (SB 1355), higher education application fee waivers (SB 2231), utility data access (SB 1877), pediatric preceptorships (SB 1998), and several House bills on bond forfeiture notice, health workforce coordination, indigent civil commitment representation, consumer transaction cancellations, bird dispersal rules, theft venue for digital property, military grant applications, AI cancer-detection grants, cybersecurity contract language, in-state tuition for military-related programs, utility capital recovery, energy waste advisory oversight, gas utility rate recovery, psychedelic therapy study, teacher retirement funding transparency, pension changes, tax payment plans, and voter registration security. Some measures drew notable debate or amendments, including HB 5247, where a ratepayer-credit amendment failed, and HB 2298, HB 4014, HB 510, HB 561, HB 1128, HB 1904, HB 30, HB 200, HB 3045, and HB 5111, which all passed after recorded votes with varying margins.
A major point of contention was SB 2420, the app store age-verification bill, which prompted extended debate over whether the bill should also require app developers to verify users’ ages. Representative Bryant offered an amendment to preserve developer verification obligations, arguing the bill would otherwise shift responsibility away from app makers; the author opposed it, saying the bill’s approach was more workable and raised concerns about First Amendment issues. Multiple points of order were raised and withdrawn during the debate, and the amendment discussion remained unresolved in the excerpt. The House also postponed further consideration of SB 17, SB 552, and SB 2420 at different points, and recessed for lunch after completing a large block of third-reading votes.
NH
New Hampshire 2025 Regular Session
House Judiciary (04/23/2025)
Transcript Highlights:
- So, I'll write the majority, and Representative Burch will write the minority.
- by good deed uh good deeds by writing by good deed uh good deeds by writing something<02:22:23.439
- And anybody planning to write a minority report? Yes. All right.
- <02:34:53.760>
And to write the report? Yes. All right. And to write the report? Yes. - >
a <02:34:56.319>minority anybody planning to write a minority anybody planning to write
Summary:
The Judiciary Committee first took up Senate Bill 268, a bill related to biological sex and related classifications. Members opposing the bill argued it was unnecessary, poorly drafted, and a personal attack on a small group of people, while supporters said it was needed to protect girls and women and to avoid repeated floor debate on a measure they viewed as proper. Several members also discussed the bill’s definition of biological sex, the lack of guidance on what information could be required to make determinations, and concerns about unintended consequences. The committee voted on a motion to retain the bill and approved it by a 10-8 roll call vote, with the bill retained.
The committee then moved to Senate Bill 189, described by supporters as a housekeeping measure requested by the Secretary of State and the Department of Health and Human Services concerning fetal death records. Supporters said the bill was narrow, time-sensitive, and ready to pass, while opponents argued it needed further work and that the committee should not use retention to reopen the bill for broader changes. Some members said they wanted to add or explore additional provisions related to fetal death reporting, while others objected that such changes were outside the bill’s scope and poor procedure. After debate, the committee voted to retain Senate Bill 189 as well.
NH
New Hampshire 2026 Regular Session
House Children and Family Law (02/17/2026)
Children and Family Law
Transcript Highlights:
- He writes a blog using sort of typing, one letter at a time on a keyboard.
- just write a letter, they both sign it. just write a letter, they both sign it.
- With this bill, a parent can write a piece of paper and bypass the judge.
- <03:45:25.760>
up schedule not something that G writes up schedule not something that G writes - They'll take it and write it down, but then there's never any charges.
NH
New Hampshire 2025 Regular Session
House Labor, Industrial and Rehabilitative Services (02/18/2025)
Labor, Industrial and Rehabilitative Services
Transcript Highlights:
- Every insurance company that writes workers' comp in New Hampshire writes it in at least two or three
- other states, and most of them write nationwide.
- Now, I did err here because I did write to my good friend Mr.
- Now, I did err here because I did write to my good friend Mr.
- Now, I did err here because I did write to my good friend Mr.
OR
Transcript Highlights:
- My dad voted against allowing this because he felt it was not wise to extend traffic ticket-writing authority
- I felt it was not wise to extend traffic ticket-writing authority to school buses.
- They're going to write rules that become and have the veracity of laws, and so these are very important
- organizational session, the Senate, the adoption, amendment, or rescission of rules shall be proposed in writing
Summary:
The Senate convened with the Pledge of Allegiance and an invocation by Senator Starr, followed by several courtesies recognizing Pride Month, a staff birthday, and later a retirement and a community celebration. Senator Robinson then used remonstrances to warn against expanding surveillance through school bus camera systems, arguing that leaked plans from a vendor could create commercial databases of drivers’ movements and erode privacy.
The main business was confirmation of numerous gubernatorial appointments and reappointments to boards and commissions. Senators debated the process at length, with several minority members objecting that the volume of nominees, limited hearing time, and lack of transparency made meaningful advice-and-consent review difficult. Supporters responded that the nominees were qualified public servants and that the Senate should work with the Governor’s office on reforms. The Senate first confirmed a large block of appointments, then confirmed two Sustainability Board appointees, and later confirmed three Quality Education Commission appointees after extended debate.
The Quality Education Commission nominations drew the most substantive policy discussion. Opponents argued the commission needs more technical research expertise and broader representation, while supporters emphasized the nominees’ education experience and direct knowledge of Oregon schools. Several senators described Oregon’s education system as in crisis, citing low reading and math proficiency, chronic absenteeism, and the need for urgent reform of the Quality Education Model and school funding. The Senate also received a proposed rule amendment creating an official Senate seal, which was distributed and held on the table, and the chamber adjourned without further action.
LA
Transcript Highlights:
- marketplace for PBMs, which enables a state to conduct a competitive market process whereby the state writes
- Jess Nicholson, the chief of staff, writes the following: The state of Iowa conducted a pharmacy benefit
- Jess Nicholson, the Chief of Staff writes the following.
- Jess Nicholson, the Chief of Staff, writes the following.
Summary:
The Senate Insurance Committee met on May 13, 2026, adopted the May 6 minutes, and then took up several bills dealing with pharmacy benefit managers, prescription access, behavioral health coverage, and Citizens Property Insurance. HB 938, as amended, was the main PBM reform measure. After the committee adopted a large amendment set that narrowed the bill, members heard extensive testimony in support from Mark Bloom, Justin Joseph of Capital Rx, and Kathy Ue of Pontchartrain Cancer Center, all emphasizing transparency, pass-through pricing, reverse auctions, and patient access. Supporters described savings from reverse auctions and administrative models, while the cancer center testified that PBM-owned specialty pharmacy requirements can delay cancer medications and create financial hardship. The committee reported HB 938 favorably with amendments.
The committee also heard HB 1154, which prohibits prior authorization for certain generic medications prescribed by qualified physicians, with a $250 cap discussed as a safeguard against higher-cost generics. The bill was supported by representatives from Ochsner Health and the Louisiana State Medical Society and was reported favorably. HB 909, which requires commercial coverage for behavioral health crisis services, was amended to clarify the insurers covered and then reported favorably with support from the Office of Behavioral Health and several outside groups. Testimony on HB 909 focused on reducing emergency room and law enforcement burdens and expanding crisis response capacity across the state.
HB 1187, dealing with excess emergency assessment funds from Louisiana Citizens Property Insurance Corporation, was explained by the Insurance Commissioner as a way to transfer remaining Katrina-era assessment funds to the Fortified Roof Program. The committee reported the bill favorably. Finally, SB 511 and SB 512 were deferred and converted into a study resolution approach because there was not yet consensus on the underlying issue. The meeting then adjourned.
AZ
Transcript Highlights:
- Thomas Jefferson was highly respected and was given the task from the Continental Congress to write the
- Thomas Jefferson remained deeply grateful for the honor of writing the Declaration of Independence.
- Thomas Jefferson was highly respected and was given the task from the Continental Congress to write the
- Thomas Jefferson remained deeply grateful for honor of writing the Declaration of Independence.
Summary:
The Senate opened with prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, roll call, approval of the journal, and a recess for a performance honoring the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Members then introduced guests and proclamations, including Hispanic Leadership Institute Day at the Capitol and a Children’s Health Day advocacy group focused on immunizations. Additional personal privileges recognized the doctor of the day, a senator’s husband on an upcoming anniversary, and other visitors and community groups.
The main legislative item was SCR 1032, a referral to the voters concerning school district budgets and classroom spending. After a Government Committee amendment and a floor amendment were adopted, the measure would require larger school districts to spend at least 60% of operational spending on direct instructional expenses, with penalties that phase in reductions to classroom site fund allocations for noncompliance. Supporters argued the measure would push more money into classrooms and teacher pay and give voters a say in how district funds are used; opponents said it would micromanage local school boards, cut funding for important services such as nurses, counselors, transportation, and maintenance, and unfairly target district schools while excluding charters. SCR 1032 passed the Senate 16-12, with two not voting, and was transmitted to the House.
The Senate also passed SB 1071 by a vote of 17-11, with two not voting. Discussion centered on an amendment related to the Arizona Rangers; supporters said the bill was not a full repeal but would create external oversight, improve background checks, and require better training documentation and accountability. The chamber also announced upcoming caucus and committee meetings before adjourning until the next day.
AL
Alabama 2026 1st Special Session
Alabama Senate County and Municipal Government Committee Mar 10th, 2026
County and Municipal Government
Transcript Highlights:
- And HB 273 seeks to write that wrong. >> And if I'd read your bill a little further, it has some protections
- And HB273 seeks<00:24:06.640>
to <00:24:06.799>write <00:24:06.960>that <00:24:07.200 - seeks to write that wrong. seeks to write that wrong.
Keywords:
education oversight, subpoena authority, investigation, State Superintendent, school misconduct, ad valorem tax, road funding, local government, referendum, Choctaw County, HB141, Alabama, state employees, salary deductions, payroll deduction, State Comptroller, membership dues, voluntary contributions, insurance premiums, financial instruments
OK
Transcript Highlights:
- And then number four is you write the oath that says that you're not a felon.
- current law that you have for somebody that's switching their registration that they have to accurately write
- What is the consequence for writing that long? Is it a felony?
- Write that I do not believe so.
Bills:
SB1450, SB1458, SB1232, SB1238, SB1325, SB1209, SB1362, SB2072, SB1451, SB1540, SB1581, SB1535, SB1266, SB1927, SB1460, SB2084, SB2182
Keywords:
criminal court costs, court fees, fines, assessments, waiver, ability to pay, indigent defendants, post-release relief, probation compliance, parole, deferred sentence, suspended sentence, restitution, child support, municipal court, district court, criminal justice reform, court debt, legal financial obligations, fee waiver
CO
Colorado 2026 Regular Session
Colorado House 2026 Legislative Day 007 Jan 21st, 2026
Colorado House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- Um, also, if you would like to write a check, it's to NWSS for the Junior Livestock Sale.
- Um, also if you would like<00:39:54.079>
to <00:39:54.240>write <00:39:54.400>a < check, <00:39:54.960>it's <00:39:55.200>to <00:39:55.520>NWSS like to write- a check, it's to NWSS like to write a check, it's to NWSS for<00:39:57.440>
the <00:39:57.599>
Summary:
The House convened, established a quorum, and approved the journal from the prior day. Members then adopted House Joint Resolution 1001, which set the officers, employees, and positions for the second regular session of the 75th General Assembly, and House Resolution 1001, which solidified House staff titles and positions. After that, House staff were invited to the well and sworn in, with members offering thanks and applause.
The chamber also adopted House Joint Resolution 1003, recognizing January as National Blood Donor Month in Colorado. The resolution highlighted the need for blood donations, especially during winter shortages, and urged citizens, businesses, and organizations to support blood drives. Floor remarks from both majority and minority leaders emphasized the importance of donating blood, including the special need for type O and O-negative donors, and noted a blood drive taking place that day with a friendly House-Senate competition.
Members then confirmed Assistant Majority Leader Bacon’s appointment to the Legislative Audit Committee by recorded vote. The House also laid over the balance of the calendar until the next day and made several announcements, including upcoming Judiciary and Transportation SMART Act presentations, recognition of visiting schoolchildren, birthday celebrations for Representatives Suckla and Michael Carter, and reminders about the National Western Stock Show and related fundraising. The House ultimately recessed for the day.
CA
California 2025-2026 Regular Session
Assembly Floor Session Jan 16th, 2026
California House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- We have come a long way since the early '60s, when his voice and his writings called us to judge one
- I support ACR 116 and the hope that has come out of all those writings and those teachings that's in
- front of us today, and we need to move forward Of all those writings and those teachings that's in front
- rebuild lives after war, Korean entrepreneurs, artists, scientists, and community leaders have helped write
Summary:
The Assembly convened after an initial quorum call, then proceeded with prayer, the pledge, and routine motions. Members approved several procedural requests, including moving AB 362 to the inactive file and allowing the Natural Resources Committee to hear AB 34 on January 16. The chamber also recognized guests and paid tribute to retiring Republican caucus consultant Daryl Thomas, with remarks from multiple members praising his long service and legal analysis work.
The main floor action centered on ACR 116, a resolution honoring Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Members from several caucuses and both parties spoke in support, emphasizing King’s legacy of civil rights, economic justice, nonviolence, and unfinished work. After opening the roll for coauthors, the resolution received 67 coauthors and was adopted by voice vote. The Assembly then took up ACR 118, recognizing Korean American Day; members highlighted Korean American history, community contributions, solidarity with other communities, and the significance of Koreatown and Korean American civic life. That resolution also received 67 coauthors and was adopted by voice vote.
The consent calendar was then adopted on a 64-0 vote, including ACR 115 on National Blood Donor Month. The chamber also held an adjournment in memory for former legislator David Kelly, with a tribute to his military service, agricultural background, and legislative work on water conservation and sustainable agriculture. The Assembly announced the upcoming Martin Luther King Day recess and adjourned until Tuesday, January 20 at 1 p.m.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Thank you, but I'd like to hear because you helped write the write it, would your perspective on that
- about what to change in the bill to alleviate her concerns about disabled children, but you helped write
- As hard as it is to teach a kid to read and write, it's exponentially harder to teach them that they
Keywords:
hemp, consumable hemp products, hemp-derived cannabinoids, CBD, cannabidiol, CBG, cannabigerol, Texas hemp law, hemp regulation, cannabinoid products, delta-9 THC, intoxicating hemp, hemp gummies, hemp vape, retail registration, product registration, QR code labeling, child-resistant packaging, youth access, minor sales
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- substitute, and that committee substitute would remove all authority for the DSHS commissioner to write
- Motion in writing. Let's receive a motion that writing, I voted against Senate Bill 1832.
- as well as reading comprehension of complex protocols and math skills for medication dosages. and writing
Keywords:
pediatrics, medical education, subsidiary, preceptorship, medical training, student programs, mental health, loan repayment, education funding, mental health professionals, healthcare access, Texas Success Initiative, exemption, public officers, employees, higher education, Capitol view, Austin, urban planning, construction
MN
Minnesota 2025 1st Special Session
Advancing Education in Minnesota – Senator Julia Coleman Apr 7th, 2025
Minnesota Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- So talk me through what inspired you to write that.
- :02.759>
to so talk me through what inspired you to so talk me through what inspired you to write - 04.960>
one <00:05:05.120>of <00:05:05.360>those <00:05:05.600>meetings write - that it was one of those meetings write that it was one of those meetings I<00:05:06.440>
just
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- all of the testimony in writing on our Dropbox. If not, can we somehow?
- how allow witnesses to submit their testimony in writing to the committee.
- I have thought a lot about what to say. say to you, and I didn't write a speech to read, but I brought
- engaging learning activities, keeping up with parent communication, trying to convince 15-year-olds to write
Keywords:
public education, teacher compensation, certification, funding, school finance, educator rights, education funding, charter schools, staff compensation, state aid, retention allotment, disaster preparedness, emergency management, flooding, mass fatality, mass casualty, fatality tracking, body recovery, autopsy, justice of the peace
KY
Kentucky 2025 Regular Session
Senate Standing Committee on Licensing and Occupations (3-4-25)
Transcript Highlights:
- oversight, and we want to make sure that, um, they're able to follow the law, and we don't want to write
- c><00:04:13.120>
to follow the law and we don't want to follow the law and we don't want to write - 00:04:14.040>
a <00:04:14.200>way <00:04:14.560>that <00:04:14.760>that write - the law in such a way that that write the law in such a way that that it's<00:04:15.000>
uneasy
Summary:
The Senate Standing Committee on Licensing and Occupations met on March 4, 2025, with a quorum present and several members absent or marked not voting during roll calls. The committee first heard Senate Bill 133, sponsored by Senator David Yates, which makes a small wording change to clarify sanctioning bodies for boxing and wrestling exhibitions. Yates said the bill is intended to close a legal gap affecting amateur boxing and wrestling clubs, especially those not affiliated with schools, and to ensure charitable and exhibition events remain properly sanctioned and safe for youth participants. The bill received a favorable recommendation after a roll-call vote.
The committee then considered Senate Bill 190, sponsored by Senator Mike Nemes, on charitable gaming. Nemes explained that the bill would allow certain groups to run three bingo sessions per week instead of two and increase volunteer participation limits from four to six times per week; he emphasized that the measure does not involve horses or casinos. The committee approved the bill favorably after a brief question from Senator Berg about why volunteer limits exist.
Finally, the committee took up House Bills 261 and 262, both related to certified public accountants. HB 261 would allow retired CPAs to provide certain uncompensated public or nonprofit services, provided they complete a retirement-based continuing education waiver; members asked for clarification that the authority applies after retirement, not while active. HB 262 would let a CPA firm keep its name when the last remaining owner is left after another owner’s death or retirement, rather than requiring a name change; Senator Meredith asked about protections if an estate objects or if the prior name is associated with misconduct, and the board representative said remedies remain available and there is no time limit on enforcement. Both bills passed with favorable expression, and the committee then adjourned.
NH
New Hampshire 2026 Regular Session
House Municipal and County Government (01/27/2026)
Municipal and County Government
Transcript Highlights:
- I mean, writing, having things in writing, is just so important when you have something that could lead
- I mean, writing, having things in writing, is just so important when you have something that could lead
- having things in that I mean writing having things in writing<01:01:05.599>
is <01:01:05.760>< - So this no they won't put it in writing.
- wanted in terms of how you would write wanted in terms of how you would write up<02:34:42.960>
MN
Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session
Fraud Committee Meeting - 2026-05-13
Fraud Prevention and State Agency Oversight Policy
Transcript Highlights:
- And the ownership can start with writing your minority report.
- And the ownership can start with writing your minority report.
- And the ownership can start with writing your minority report.
- And the ownership can start with writing your minority report.
- And the ownership can start with writing your minority report.
AZ
Arizona 2026 Regular Session
01/28/2026 - House Transportation & Infrastructure
Transportation & Infrastructure
Transcript Highlights:
- Is it like a writing? I would imagine they have to get on the road.
- By opposing a stricter state-specific exam that includes writing and listening, Arizona risks creating
- By opposing a stricter state-specific exam that includes writing and listening, Arizona risks creating
- So, you know, he didn't really know how to write, and people were pretty shocked by that.
- So I think about people like my dad where he could pass a verbal English test, but if he had to write
Bills:
HB2003, HB2057, HB2109, HB2111, HB2112, HB2114, HB2256, HB2259, HB2317, HB2323, HB2398, HB2443, HB2446, HB2574
Keywords:
driver education, instruction permit, underage drivers, motorcycle licenses, traffic regulations, special plates, centennial, Arizona Department of Transportation, vehicle registration, commercial discounts, Arizona Centennial, distracted driving, portable wireless communication devices, motorcycles, traffic safety, civil penalties, driver license, examinations, motorcycle awareness, public safety
Summary:
The committee heard a presentation from New Core Steel on its Arizona operations, emphasizing its Kingman facility, recycled-scrap steel production, high-paying jobs, safety improvements, veteran hiring, community investments, and support for infrastructure projects. Members asked about safety gains, expansion plans, scrap sources, and average pay. The company said it has invested heavily in Arizona and asked legislators to consider local steel and manufacturing when funding transportation and infrastructure projects.
The committee then took up several bills. HB 2574 would delay ADOT enforcement of a traffic judgment while an appeal is pending; the sponsor and a witness said it would close a due-process gap, and it passed 7-0. HB 2057 would lower the fee for Arizona Centennial special plates for fleet vehicles to encourage more purchases supporting the Arizona Mining, Mineral, Natural Resource Education Museum; it also passed 7-0 after discussion about possibly expanding the concept to other specialty plates.
HB 2109 would raise penalties for repeat distracted-driving violations and add an enhanced penalty when a violation results in a motorcycle crash. The sponsor and motorcycle advocates argued stronger fines are needed, but several members also wanted an education component; the committee agreed to work on a COW amendment and the bill passed 7-0. HB 2317, which would bar local governments from prohibiting cruising, drew strong testimony both for and against: supporters framed cruising as cultural and historical, while opponents from neighborhoods and law enforcement described congestion, blocked streets, sanitation issues, and safety concerns. The chair held the bill for further work. The committee also heard HB 2003, which would lower the age to get an instruction permit to 15 and extend permit periods and supervised-driving requirements; the sponsor and a motorcycle advocate said more supervised time would improve teen safety, while some members expressed concern about lowering the age and wanted to discuss changes before moving it forward.
NH
New Hampshire 2025 Regular Session
House Finance Division I (02/21/2025)
Transcript Highlights:
- That is calculated out as a pro share of the total written premium that they write in New Hampshire.
- <00:03:51.879>
in total written premium that they write in total written premium that they - write in New<00:03:52.239>
Hampshire <00:03:52.680>so <00:03:52.879>obviously <00 - states but are authorized to write states but are authorized to write business<00:15:42.880>
- It's whatever they write down.
Summary:
The committee heard testimony from Insurance Commissioner DJ Bettencourt on the New Hampshire Insurance Department budget. He said the department is self-funded through assessments on insurers based on New Hampshire premium volume, with about $8 billion in premiums written in the state and a department budget of roughly $15.5 million. He explained that the department has 88 authorized positions, eight vacancies, and that three full-time positions were unfunded after the governor’s requested 4% reduction exercise. He also said the department is trying to balance staffing needs with not overburdening carriers during a hard insurance market.
A major topic was the department’s $2.6 million rebate to industry from the prior fiscal year, which Bettencourt described as a credit against the next assessment rather than a direct cash payment. Members questioned why that credit was not reflected as a reduction in the upcoming budget, and Bettencourt and staff explained that the budget assumes full staffing and full spending, with any year-end surplus returned to insurers. The commissioner said the department had added staff in recent years for succession planning and to preserve institutional expertise, and that the rebate reflects careful budgeting rather than excess spending.
Members also asked about staffing changes by division, including positions unfunded in fraud, property and casualty examinations, life and health examinations, and tax. Bettencourt said fraud investigations remain strong and that the department can use outside contractors for examinations, with those costs billed to the company being examined. He also described the department’s examination process, including periodic financial exams and targeted market conduct reviews triggered by consumer complaints or trends. Additional questions covered OIT transfers, the department’s oversight of fully insured health coverage, the insurance premium tax and fines going to the general fund, and the department’s limited role in auto repair reimbursement disputes, where he said complaints have recently declined.