Transcript Highlights:

• Connect the dots, then attack, delegitimize, and discredit.
• 'Connect the dots, then attack, delegitimize, and discredit.
• caveat that this is not my area of expertise, you just asked for a template, and I happen to be connected
• drink, and just to hear their story and to hear what's important to them and how we can help them connect
• And that doesn't create a culture of hostility toward people who have any kind of connection to the State

Keywords: 995, all

Summary: The Special Commission on Anti-Semitism met for its 11th meeting and approved the minutes from its August 7 meeting. Co-chairs said the commission had recently completed preliminary K-12 recommendations and would continue work on higher education, with additional topics such as workplace issues, the medical sector, and the arts to be addressed before the November 30 reporting deadline. They also said another public comment meeting would be held this fall. The first testimony came from Dr. Mark Posnansky of Harvard Medical School, who described anti-Semitism affecting STEM, research, and higher education. He said Jewish and Israeli students and faculty reported ostracism, gaslighting, intimidation, discrimination, and hiding Jewish identity, and he urged clear leadership statements, mandatory anti-Semitism education, and stronger reporting and discipline procedures. Commissioners asked about Harvard training, spillover into teaching hospitals, and whether anti-Semitic climates were causing students to leave; he said some students had turned down opportunities because of the environment and that concerns also affected healthcare settings. Lindsey Gabbo, a Harvard Law student and mother, testified that campus discourse after October 7 had made Jewish and Zionist students feel isolated and unwelcome, with protests, defaced hostage posters, and a student council BDS vote contributing to the climate. She said Harvard had sent some emails acknowledging anti-Semitism but that she had not seen meaningful steps to restore dialogue, and she argued the school needed more structured venues for conversation. Commissioners also asked about campus security, the effect on students’ mental health, and the impact of chants and protests that she said many Jewish students understood as calls to violence. A panel of concerned Jewish faculty and staff then offered contrasting views. Professor Jeremy Menchick argued the commission should use data carefully, include non-Zionist Jews in its analysis, and avoid reinforcing divisions within the Jewish community. Professor Hilary Lustick described restorative-practice approaches and said structured dialogue could address conflict without immediate punishment. Professor Jonathan Feingold warned that anti-Semitism was being weaponized by the Trump administration and right-wing groups to attack universities and DEI, and he urged the commission not to adopt approaches that could be used to undermine civil rights institutions. Commissioners pushed back on claims that the problem was being exaggerated or reduced to a “problem” rather than a “crisis,” and the discussion ended with continued debate over data, context, and how to balance anti-Semitism concerns with broader civil-rights protections.

Transcript Highlights:

• It also supports first-mile and last-mile connections to the MBTA and to regional transit authorities
• But that's a busy road that connects 128.
• They're linear parks but also they're an important transportation connection.
• It's an easy thing to remember, and it connects there.
• . ...and community connection.

Keywords: 995, all

Summary: The Joint Committee on Transportation held a hybrid hearing on the governor’s Ride Safe Act, S. 3077, and related micromobility bills. Chairs and administration officials described the bill as a statewide, speed-based framework for e-bikes, scooters, mopeds, and similar devices, intended to replace outdated device categories with clearer rules for age limits, helmets, equipment, operating locations, registration, insurance for higher-speed devices, and restrictions on tampering. They also emphasized improved crash-data collection, a working group for future updates, and battery safety standards such as UL certification to reduce fire risk. Committee members asked about enforcement, shared-use paths, commuter rail accommodations, battery storage, and how the bill would apply to other vehicles like quads; the administration said some issues would need further study or follow-up. Testimony from advocates, municipal officials, and commission members was mixed but generally supportive of clearer statewide rules. Transportation and safety advocates backed the speed-based tier system but urged additional measures, including a default speed limit on shared-use paths, automated enforcement, and more funding for Complete Streets and Shared Streets programs. Bike shop and police representatives said current laws are confusing for riders and law enforcement and that better definitions and data reporting are needed. Several speakers stressed that enforcement and education will be critical, and that local patchwork rules are difficult to apply consistently. Medical testimony strongly supported tighter protections for young riders. Pediatric emergency and trauma doctors described a sharp rise in serious injuries and deaths involving e-bikes and scooters, including severe pediatric cases, and urged amendments adding a minimum age for faster devices and a universal helmet requirement. They argued that the force and weight of these devices make crashes more dangerous than conventional bicycles and pointed to past Massachusetts safety laws as evidence that age and equipment restrictions can reduce injuries. Some public testimony opposed the bill as written, especially from moped commuters who argued that gas-powered mopeds are being treated differently from comparable electric devices and should be included in the framework. They called for clearer rules on bike-lane access, insurance, parking, and statewide standards for mopeds as vulnerable road users. No votes were taken during the hearing; the committee heard testimony and questions only.

Transcript Highlights:

• So connecting with them in schools, bringing the service there, making it accessible is so important.
• c> in<00:42:28.000> schools, So connecting with them in schools, So connecting with them in
• social worker and get them connected social worker and get them connected somewhere
• There's another study done when they just do a referral out: only 13% connect.
• So it's so important for that one-on-one connection.

Keywords: 1183, house

Transcript Highlights:

• Please know the House is not responsible for internet connections.
• Please know the House is not responsible for internet connections.
• <00:38:12.960> in responsible for internet connections in responsible for internet connections
• drivers with riders and we don't connect drivers with riders and we don't own<01:15:16.239> our
• We also have Uber Eats, Uber Connect, and Uber Direct.

Keywords: 910, house, all

Summary: The joint hearing covered HB 1484 on transit-oriented development and HB 157 on transportation. For HB 1484, testimony included a request from the Hoi Community Development Authority to be removed from the measure while offering to assist if the transit-oriented development law is implemented, along with testimony in opposition and support from several individuals. The committees later recommended HB 1484 be passed with amendments, including an HD1, a defective date, deletion of a reference to section 225 on page 11, adoption of H-CDA’s proposed amendment, and related committee report changes. The vote was adopted in both committees, with Representatives Cochran and Lee excused and Representative Mora voting with reservations. HB 157 concerned the transfer and acceptance of roads in the Villages of Kapolei. HHFDC supported the bill’s intent and explained that the roads were originally self-permitted, the city had not accepted dedication, and HHFDC has been maintaining and upgrading the roads under an MOA that requires improvements to city standards before transfer. Testimony from the Villages of Kapolei Association and others described ongoing problems with non-emergency police services, illegal parking, abandoned vehicles, and the need for city enforcement on roads that are open to the public. Committee members asked about the current holdup, the possibility of transferring roads in segments, and whether a cash settlement could resolve the issue; HHFDC said it was working in segments and that the city had mentioned a $60 million figure. The committees then recommended HB 157 pass with amendments, noting they were awaiting an Attorney General opinion on authority to compel the transfer and that the matter would continue to the Committee on Water and Land. The Transportation Committee also heard several additional bills. HB 1083, concerning vessels in state commercial harbors, drew support from the Department of Transportation and some industry groups and opposition from charter operators; HB 1159, which would require compliance with harbor master evacuation orders and increase penalties, drew DOT support and opposition from multiple vessel operators, who argued the bill was too broad and should define emergencies more clearly and use tiered penalties. HB 58, limiting civil liability for firefighting at commercial harbors, received DOT and Maritime Group support. HB 1165, on county disposal of ocean-bordering property and state highway acquisition, received DOT support. HB 938, a broad motor vehicle franchise and EV-related bill, drew support from the Hawaii Automobile Dealers Association and the Motor Vehicle Industry Licensing Board, but strong opposition from the Alliance for Automotive Innovation, Tesla, Rivian, Scout Motors, and others; opponents argued it would restrict direct-to-consumer EV sales and innovation, while dealers said the bill was too broad and needed further stakeholder work. No final votes were taken on the Transportation Committee’s remaining measures in the portion provided, and the joint hearing was adjourned after decision-making on HB 1484 and HB 157.

Transcript Highlights:

• Folks that are homebound, this is their connection. Ampers played a uh per year. Uh so uh per year.
• Um folks that are homebound, this is<00:43:43.680> their<00:43:44.000> connection.
• A space to connect, to belong, and to be inspired.
• , help us build a more connected, help us build a more connected, inspiring,<01:20:00.880> and
• For us, all three areas are connected for a healthy and economically vibrant community.

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• and through storytelling on our blog, working to narrow the disconnect so consumers can be more connected
• The problem with that is that it does not have any connective tissue, neurological tissue, or, you know
• There's no connection to industry funding at all. I'm sorry, to that point, Mr. Chair, if I may...
• But it's philanthropically funded, not connected to industry. Mr. Chair, go ahead.
• But we hope to absolutely connect before Floor.

Bills: HB2155, HB2156, HB2162, HB2762, HB2791

Keywords: Arizona Beef Council, agriculture, market development, beef products, terminating council, livestock, compensation, funding, ranching, game and fish commission, wildlife, appointment, commission membership, Arizona Revised Statutes, food labeling, cultivated cells, cell-cultured products, consumer information, food safety, cell-cultured protein

Summary: The House Committee on Land, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs met for its first session, with members and staff introducing themselves before taking up committee-of-reference business and several bills. The committee first heard a presentation from the Arizona Beef Council, which described its checkoff-funded promotion, education, and research work for Arizona beef producers, including classroom materials, nutrition outreach, and ranch tours. After questions about how the program is funded and whether the state would lose its Arizona-retained share if the council were not continued, the committee voted to recommend continuing the council for eight years, until July 1, 2034. The committee then considered HB 2155, which also continued the Arizona Beef Council for eight years, and advanced it on a 7-1 vote. HB 2156, which appropriates money to the livestock compensation fund for wolf depredation losses, was amended to set the appropriation at $250,000 from the general fund in fiscal year 2027 and then passed 5-2, with supporters emphasizing rancher compensation and opponents questioning use of general funds and noting unused prior funding. HB 2162, which would require at least one Arizona Game and Fish Commission member to be a cattleman or rancher, drew testimony for and against but was ultimately held by the chair after discussion about representation, existing appointment structures, and rural interests. The committee also advanced two cell-cultured protein bills. HB 2762 would require a disclaimer on packaging for food derived from cultivated cells; supporters argued for consumer transparency and opponents said federal labeling rules already apply and state-specific requirements could create confusion. It passed 5-3. HB 2791 would prohibit the sale of cell-cultured protein for human consumption and make violations a felony; supporters raised safety, innovation, and agricultural concerns, while opponents argued it would criminalize federally approved products and restrict consumer choice. That bill also passed 5-3. The committee adjourned after completing its agenda.

Transcript Highlights:

• Pit's connection to strawberries dates back to 1911.
• just where memories are made, it's where friendships are formed, and it's where communities stay connected
• House Bill 4320 will establish the Texas Bicentennial Trail as a hike and bike network to connect the
• committee to put forward a bill that takes the Great Springs Project a step further by not only connecting
• It's an honorable undertaking made even greater by connecting it to the Texas Bicentennial celebration

Bills: HCR6

Keywords: Meals on Wheels, senior services, nutrition, community support, volunteerism

Transcript Highlights:

• Um, so I see it as a connection to sort of that next step in the regulation modernization process, uh
• Um, so I see it as a connection to sort of that next step in the regulation modernization process, uh
• Um, so I see it as a connection to sort of that next step in the regulation modernization process, uh
• This would create that direct connection to background checks.
• this would create that direct connection this would create that direct connection to<00:23:17.840

Keywords: 919, house, all

Summary: The committee took up House File 2617, and first adopted a DE1 amendment. The bill, as amended, was presented as a major child care licensing reform that would narrow licensing to core health and safety requirements, reduce what supporters described as punitive or overly technical citations, and shift quality standards toward accreditation and professional organizations. The author also described the bill as a response to long-standing problems in the current licensing structure and county oversight of family child care. Public testimony was uniformly supportive. Child care providers and directors from Duluth, Rochester, and Esko said the current system penalizes minor clerical or cosmetic issues, creates inconsistent interpretations, and contributes to provider burnout and the child care shortage. They argued the bill would separate health-and-safety licensing from quality measures, which they said are better addressed through accreditation, coaching, and national standards. One testifier also said the bill would help with background study delays by creating a liaison to improve visibility into the process. Members asked about the difference between licensing and accreditation, how other states handle similar models, and how the bill would interact with the department’s licensing modernization work. The bill’s supporters said licensing would remain focused on foundational health and safety items such as ratios, background checks, hygiene, and facilities, while quality standards would be left to national organizations like NAEYC or the National Family Child Care Association. They cited Connecticut, Indiana, and Florida as examples of states using national standards in some form. The committee closed public testimony, took member questions, and the author renewed his motion to lay over House File 2617 as amended.

Transcript Highlights:

• It's with a connection to what's also happening in that community.
• And that's really connected to Florida Housing in the sense that we may fund those.
• And that's really connected to Florida Housing in the sense that we may fund those.
• There's connections made for those referrals. So that's really exciting too.
• There's connections made for those referrals. So that's really exciting too.

Summary: The Committee on Community Affairs held its first meeting and heard presentations focused on affordable housing implementation under the Live Local Act. Florida Housing Finance Corporation described its role in administering rental and homeownership programs, including SAIL, SHIP, the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit program, disaster recovery efforts, supportive housing, and the Live Local funding and tax incentives. Officials said the first year’s $150 million Live Local rental allocation was fully committed to 23 developments producing 3,171 units with mixed-income set-asides, and they outlined how projects were selected through competitive solicitations tied to statutory priorities such as mixed-use development, publicly owned land, foster youth, rural areas of opportunity, redevelopment, and housing near military installations. They also discussed the tax credit contribution program, the missing-middle property tax exemption, sales tax rebates, and the year-one ad valorem exemption for qualifying affordable projects. Members asked detailed questions about the data and program design, including the use of area median income figures, per-unit subsidy levels, county targeting, tenant relocation during redevelopment, and whether the programs were helping lower-income households. Florida Housing said it uses competitive scoring and data from the Schimberg Center and that redevelopment projects are supposed to include tenant relocation plans. The homeownership portion of the presentation covered the Hometown Heroes program, which provides down payment and closing cost assistance to first-time homebuyers, with exceptions for active-duty military and veterans. Staff said the program has assisted more than 21,000 families and leveraged over $6.5 billion in first mortgages, and members asked about repayment rates, credit scores, and whether participants were staying in homes long enough to show the program was serving intended buyers. The committee then heard from OPAGA on two required Live Local evaluations: affordable housing strategies in other states and affordable housing policies in Florida. OPAGA reported that Florida has a high share of cost-burdened households, with 1.5 million households cost burdened and 1.4 million severely cost burdened, and that Florida’s counties and municipalities reported more than $1.4 billion in affordable housing expenditures in fiscal year 2023-24. The report identified 13 innovative out-of-state programs, with three considered high-potential for Florida implementation, and summarized Florida local government practices such as SHIP-funded homeownership and rental assistance, expedited permitting, mixed-income zoning, rehabilitation programs, and interlocal cooperation. No votes were taken, and the meeting adjourned after the presentations and questions.

Transcript Highlights:

• volunteering allows people to connect volunteering allows people to connect with<00:22:28.640>
• Connections Act. Connections Act.
• Congressman Mike Kerry on the connect Congressman Mike Kerry on the connect act.<03:01:26.479>
• create meaningful connections with adults and build a lifelong support network as a core purpose of
• The Chafee Opportunity for New and Existing Connections Trust Act, or the Connect Act, clarifies the

Keywords: U.S. House of Representatives Floor Proceedings on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, 1012, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• So a lot of different locations we have to be connecting with people.
• So a lot of different locations we have to be connecting with people.
• So a lot of different locations we have to be connecting with people.
• So a lot of different locations we have to be connecting with people.
• So a lot of different locations we have to be connecting with people.

Keywords: 919, house, all

Summary: The committee first took up House File 3939, a bill to support a Helping Paws service-dog litter named in honor of Gilbert and the Hortman family. Testimony from Helping Paws and service-dog graduate Angie Foley described the organization’s work, the significance of the “Guided by Gilbert” litter, and how the funding would help train dogs that provide independence and support to people with disabilities, veterans, and others. Members from both parties spoke warmly about Speaker Hortman’s connection to the organization and Gilbert, and the bill was laid over for possible inclusion. The committee then considered House File 3769, the Department of Corrections’ technical omnibus bill, with an A1 amendment adopted to clarify tuberculosis testing language. The bill updates TB screening procedures in correctional facilities, including how refusals are handled, and adds Quantiferon Gold Plus testing as an option alongside existing methods. Members discussed whether the bill would create costs for counties and jails, with some noting added testing and segregation costs and others arguing the changes would improve accuracy and reduce time in restrictive housing. The bill, as amended, was recommended to the general register. House File 3978 was next, a technical cleanup bill for a provider wellness program created last year. The bill expands eligibility and confidentiality protections from physicians to all health care providers, while supporters said the program is meant to address burnout and mental health strain in the workforce and does not require new money. Some members questioned whether the change was redundant or would broaden the program without additional funding, but the Minnesota Medical Association testified that the program is separate from insurance and was intended to serve all providers. The bill was recommended to the general register. Finally, the committee began House File 3476, which Rep. Liebling described as a cleanup bill related to Minnesota’s Medicaid managed care system and public program oversight. She argued that the state spends billions through managed care organizations and that the system has never been proven better than direct payment, setting up a broader discussion of the bill’s purpose and the state’s oversight of public health care spending.

Transcript Highlights:

• And then the last forecast I plan to present in public assistance is Working Connections.
• DCYF, Eric presented about the working connections caseload.
• So again, just connecting to that prior slide.
• So again, just connecting to that prior slide.
• Again, connected to the prior slide, $4.3 billion at the end of fiscal year 29.

Summary: The Ways and Means Committee held a work session covering the state revenue outlook, caseload forecasts, wildfire costs, budget balance, tort liability, water supply, and pension policy. The Economic and Revenue Forecast Council reported modest near-term U.S. growth, no near-term Washington employment growth in 2026, continued personal income growth, and elevated inflation, with tariffs and federal policy cited as major risks. Revenue forecasts were slightly improved for the current biennium by about $105 million but down about $185 million for the next biennium. Members asked about income inequality and housing permits; staff said personal income is an aggregate measure and housing production remains below long-term needs. The Caseload Forecast Council then reported that most forecasts were unchanged or only slightly changed, but several programs increased, including Washington College Grant, Working Connections, aged/blind/disabled cash grants, nursing homes, home and community services, and developmental disabilities personal care. The largest policy-driven change was in Medicaid low-income adult caseloads, where federal H.R. 1 was projected to reduce coverage substantially through narrower eligibility, community engagement requirements, and shorter eligibility periods. The committee also heard a wildfire funding update and a 2025 fire season review. Staff explained that the state budgets $93 million annually for suppression and uses supplemental appropriations for costs above that level, with an estimated state supplemental need of about $139 million for the current year. Department of Natural Resources officials said 2025 fire activity remained below the 10-year average in acres burned, but fires were more complex and closer to communities, contributing to higher residence loss. They described expanded use of aircraft, firefighters from other states, corrections crews, and the Arcadia 20 hand crew, and said the state did not need National Guard ground support this year. A budget preview then showed that the near general fund outlook had worsened after vetoes, lapses, and forecast changes, and that maintenance-level costs alone would leave a projected negative balance by fiscal year 2027 and about $4.3 billion by fiscal year 2029, before any policy decisions. Jason Seams, the state risk manager, reported a sharp rise in tort claim costs, with indemnity expenses nearly doubling from fiscal year 2023 to 2025 and DCYF accounting for most of the increase. He said the state self-insurance liability account has run deficits for four straight biennia and is now facing nearly $600 million in deficits, driven largely by a surge in DCYF claims, especially juvenile rehabilitation and long-running sex abuse cases. Members asked about the role of old claims, comparisons with other states, excess insurance, and whether more Attorney General staff could reduce special assistant attorney general costs. The committee then shifted to water policy, hearing from tribal leaders, Ecology, and the Washington Water Trust. Tribal witnesses emphasized overappropriation, declining flows, climate impacts, and the need for legislative oversight and tribal participation in water policy. Ecology described major projects in the Odessa sub-area, Yakima Basin, and Dungeness, along with the need for storage, recharge, conservation, and policy changes to support water supply development. The Washington Water Trust argued that climate change is reducing summer flows and that the state needs more funding, enforcement, and long-term commitment to restore instream flows. The final item was a pension update on LEOFF 1 surplus assets; staff reviewed two 2025 bills that would have merged or restructured the plan and used surplus assets, but neither passed, and instead the budget directed the Select Committee on Pension Policy to study the issue and report back.

Transcript Highlights:

• Due to a lack of municipal water connections at Yakima, the Army has been installing residential point-of-entry
• These funds are being used to improve facilities at Crescent Harbor Schools and hand-in-hand home connection
• This coordination addresses... ...which facilitates vital connections between military leaders and state
• We try to serve everyone that is connected to both the military and the veteran community.
• People on our staff that are military-connected. We have veterans. We have military spouses.

Summary: The committee heard updates from Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Navy Region Northwest, Fairchild Air Force Base, the Coast Guard, state licensing agencies, the Professional Educator Standards Board, the Washington National Guard, and a veterans behavioral health presenter. Across the military briefings, common themes were readiness, infrastructure, and quality-of-life issues for service members and families, especially child care, housing, food insecurity, medical and dental access, and military spouse employment. JBLM highlighted its role in Indo-Pacific readiness, ongoing PFAS cleanup, 212 new family housing units under construction, efforts to expand child care, and continued work to keep the Lewis Army Museum open. Navy Region Northwest discussed its major installations and economic impact, the Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Plan, future carrier and submarine homeporting needs, and asked the legislature to continue support for licensure compacts, educational stability for military children, housing, and medical access. Fairchild emphasized its tanker and survival missions, child care shortages, food insecurity, aging housing, and concerns about wind turbine development near flight paths, while the Coast Guard focused on rebuilding Base Seattle for new icebreakers and on rural access to housing, medical care, and child care at dispersed stations like Neah Bay. Members repeatedly raised food insecurity and asked for follow-up on solutions. JBLM and Fairchild both described increased demand for food assistance during the shutdown, and committee members noted progress in getting mobile food vans onto JBLM. The presenters also praised state action on military spouse licensure and child care, including Senate Bill 5545 and related compact and portability efforts. The Department of Licensing reported about 9,000 self-identified military members or spouses licensed, with average time-to-license just under nine days, and said applications are prioritized when military status is self-identified. The Department of Health said its military-to-civilian crosswalk now covers more than 35 health professions, that temporary practice permits and expedited processing are in place, and that 1,300 credentials were issued to military spouses and domestic partners and 129 to military-trained health professionals in the last fiscal year, all within 30 days. The Professional Educator Standards Board explained that military spouses and service members can receive expedited teacher certification with reduced documentation, and that they are moved to the front of the review queue when they self-identify. Members asked about verification, and staff said the process relies on attestation with investigatory safeguards if needed. The Washington National Guard briefed on its dual state and federal mission, the impact of the recent shutdown on nearly 700 employees who worked without pay, and policy and budget requests including youth academy protections, alignment of the Washington Code of Military Justice with the UCMJ, making Civil Air Patrol a division of the Military Department, 911 funding, disaster assistance, and capital funding for headquarters and readiness facilities. The Guard also warned about drone threats and said it wants authority to identify, track, and monitor suspicious drones. A veterans behavioral health presenter, an Army combat veteran and clinical social worker, described high suicide risk, barriers to care, and the need for more culturally competent services, especially for women veterans and caregivers. He said Washington veterans’ suicide rate remains above the national average and emphasized that childcare, transportation, and provider shortages can prevent timely treatment. Members generally responded supportively throughout, asked for follow-up on food security and other issues, and encouraged agencies to bring forward legislative ideas for future sessions.

Transcript Highlights:

• Or, excuse me, Capacity Connect. Um, [snorts] that was born out of an IRP settlement.
• Their Capacity Connect is a front-of-meter thing versus a back-of-meter.
• Thanks, and I appreciate both of you responding to that. up in response to capacity connect.
• Part up in response to capacity connect.
• Um the capacity connect these things.

Keywords: 919, house, all

Summary: Representative Craft presented House File 2986, as amended with the DE6, and asked that it be laid over for possible inclusion. He described the bill as an affordability measure centered on virtual power plants, explaining that aggregating distributed energy resources such as solar panels, batteries, EVs, smart thermostats, heat pumps, and water heaters can help utilities reduce peak demand and avoid costly generation and distribution investments. He said the bill would require utilities to reduce system peak through a virtual power plant program by 5% by the end of 2028 and 10% by the end of 2032, using an independent third-party RFP process, with plans incorporated into integrated resource planning and a savings clause if requirements prove infeasible. Testimony in support came from the Department of Commerce, Vote Solar, Solar United Neighbors, Kite Rocket, and Mincia. Supporters said virtual power plants can function like grid-scale resources, lower spot-market and peak costs, improve reliability and resilience, and make better use of existing distribution infrastructure. Commerce said the approach fits an all-of-the-above strategy and noted consumer protections in the bill, including standards for contracts, disclosures, dispatch frequency, notice, opt-out, and compensation. Several supporters cited estimates of significant savings, including a national DOE estimate of 10% to 20% of peak load by 2030 and a Minnesota-specific estimate from Solar United Neighbors of about $63.5 million in savings if 10% of peak demand were met with VPPs in 2030. Committee members raised questions about how much cheaper VPPs are than peaker plants and whether utilities, especially Xcel Energy, are already implementing similar programs. Representative Baker expressed concern that the bill could move faster than the technology or market would naturally develop and asked about the risk of forcing utilities into a mandate before the economics are fully proven. In response, a Solar United Neighbors witness pointed to a fact sheet and Brattle Group-based analysis comparing VPP costs and benefits in Xcel territory, while an Xcel representative said the company has been discussing the bill with Representative Craft for months. The bill was laid over for possible inclusion, and no final vote on the bill itself was taken in the transcript.

Transcript Highlights:

• That's Martin County and Floyd County are connected together.
• And those four counties will be connected so people can come from other states.
• <00:26:27.360> We're<00:26:27.600> selling connected together.
• We're selling connected together.
• eventually be connected together. eventually be connected together.

Keywords: 958, all

Summary: The committee heard a presentation from the Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet and the Kentucky Department of Tourism on the 1% Tourism Meeting and Convention Marketing Fund. Officials said Kentucky tourism is a $14.3 billion industry that welcomed more than 80 million travelers last year, supports nearly 97,000 jobs, and uses the fund solely for tourism marketing and promotion, not capital projects. They noted the fund received additional appropriations in the enacted budget and also supports several designated tourism-related initiatives. Commissioner Mike Manet described how the fund is used for paid media, public relations, international marketing, cultural heritage promotion, website content, regional matching grants, research, trade shows, and travel expenses. He said the department spent $10.8 million on paid media in 23 markets in 2024, focused on seven tourism pillars, and used research and advertising ROI studies to guide spending. He reported 180 PR placements, 3.2 billion earned impressions, 3% growth in international visitation, and 12% growth in international spending to $257 million. He also highlighted the African-American Heritage Trail and said the regional matching funds program distributed $2 million to 87 local tourism commissions. Members asked about the rise of AI in search results, how domestic and international visitor data are collected, how ad agencies are selected, and how regional matching funds are allocated. The commissioner said the department uses GPS-based and federal data, including National Travel and Tourism Office figures, and that ad agencies are chosen through an RFP process. Representative McDaniel raised concerns about bourbon tourism and Canadian visitation; the commissioner said Canadian travel is down significantly, bourbon-related visitation has softened, and the department is shifting more spending toward in-state and closer drive markets while emphasizing bourbon’s heritage story. Representative Fugate asked about eastern Kentucky tourism and ATV trails, and the commissioner said those trails are included in advertising, social media, and earned media efforts. No votes or formal actions were taken.

Transcript Highlights:

• And they're going to build a connection, a memory, and a friendship along the way.
• ,<00:08:30.319> a<00:08:30.560> memory, going to build a connection, a memory, going
• So that connection was really cool to see this summer. And then our third pillar is gifts and kind.
• So that connection<00:16:39.920> was<00:16:40.160> really<00:16:40.320> cool<00:
• 16:40.480> to<00:16:40.639> see<00:16:40.800> this connection was really cool to

Keywords: Call to Order and Roll Call – 00:00:24 Discussion of The Center for Courageous Kids – 00:02:46 Discussion of Adult Protective Services and State Guardianship Programs – 00:25:22 Discussion of Annual Report of the External Child Fatality and Near Fatality Review Panel – 01:00:34 Consideration of Referred Administrative Regulations – 01:33:41 Adjournment – 01:42:07, 958, all

Summary: The Interim Joint Committee on Families and Children opened its first meeting with roll call and a reminder about the number of children in out-of-home care with active placements, which the chair said was 8,641 as of June 1, 2025. The committee then heard a presentation from the Center for Courageous Kids, a donor-funded camp in Scottville that serves children with lifelong illnesses and disabilities at no charge. Representatives described the camp’s year-round family retreats and summer sessions, its medically safe and inclusive model, and examples of campers gaining confidence and independence. They said the camp has served more than 43,000 campers from Kentucky, other states, and other countries, and that it is seeking legislative support for two capital projects: a new art barn and a medical lodge, with a combined request of $3.2 million. Members praised the program and asked about awareness, staffing, volunteer recruitment, accreditation, and how the projects would expand capacity; the camp said the medical lodge would help increase volunteer housing and allow future growth beyond its current summer cap of 128 campers per session. The committee then moved to adult protective services and state guardianship programs. Jessica Wayne, director of the Division of Guardianship, and Cliff Bryant of DCBS explained the legal framework for guardianship and conservatorship, including state guardianship as a last-resort option when no family member or private entity is available or appropriate. They outlined the court petition process, emergency appointments, and the distinction between full and limited guardianship or conservatorship. They emphasized that guardianship is based on legal incapacity to make decisions, not simply on a medical disability diagnosis, and noted that state guardianship can be arranged for some 17-year-olds aging out of youth services. The presenters said the state currently serves 4,645 individuals under guardianship, with most cases involving developmental intellectual disabilities, supported community living waiver participants, and people in nursing homes or long-term care facilities. They also described the division’s three branches: field services, which handles visits and day-to-day decisions in all 120 counties; a benefits branch that applies for public benefits; and a fiduciary branch that manages funds and pays bills. They reported 89 field workers statewide, an average caseload of 52, and said the agency is hiring to reduce that load. No votes or formal committee actions were taken during the meeting.

Transcript Highlights:

• We’re really connecting our faculty and staff, particularly in the sciences and math and now our new
• They get connected with a college student, a mentor on this campus.
• They get connected with our faculty.
• So they have that connection.
• And again, it's that connection point. I want them working with local industry here as well.

Summary: The Higher Education Institutions Committee met on the Minot State University campus for presentations on campus operations, enrollment, and new academic initiatives. President Shirley reviewed recent audits, noting mostly clean results with only minor technical findings, and highlighted MSU’s broad academic offerings, specialized accreditations, athletics, and partnerships with Minot Air Force Base and the MSU Development Foundation. Members asked about declining interest in teacher education, tuition waivers for athletes, dual credit incentives, and how MSU decides when to launch new programs and avoid duplication within the university system. Shirley also discussed several workforce-focused initiatives supported by the Legislature’s Workforce Education Innovation Funds, including the purchase of the Trinity Health Center West building for a downtown health sciences hub, a new daycare/preschool partnership near campus, the Aspire program to recruit rural students into teaching, and a paraprofessional-to-special-education degree pathway. Enrollment data showed overall headcount was flat at just under 2,750, but full-time equivalent enrollment rose slightly and new student numbers increased, including the largest freshman class in 15 years. The committee also discussed Minot State’s in-state tuition rate for all students, its dual credit “Emerging Scholars” scholarship, and concerns about the share of high school graduates who do not immediately pursue postsecondary education. Faculty then presented two new programs funded in part by WEAF: an Innovation Engineering degree and a master’s program in counseling with an integrated addiction studies focus. The engineering program was described as industry-driven, designed with broad early coursework, hands-on learning, and local employer input to prepare students for western North Dakota workforce needs; officials said it had already drawn more applicants than expected and would use renovated library space and donated or grant-funded equipment. The counseling program will be mostly face-to-face with hybrid options, aims to address shortages in mental health and substance use providers, and is structured to help students meet licensure requirements. Committee members asked about startup costs, licensure supervision hours, and whether the programs would be on campus rather than online, and presenters said both programs had recently received required approvals and were moving forward.

Transcript Highlights:

• It's to inspire and educate Kentuckians and connect them to careers in aviation, aerospace, which, as
• <00:59:33.760> them and educate Kuckians um and connect them and educate Kuckians um and connect
• The museum does connect people, and we are doing a great job, we believe, in encouraging youth to go
• We see ourselves as a connection between families, veterans, and students.
• > veterans, connection between families, veterans, connection between families, veterans, and<

Keywords: 958, all

Summary: The Budget Review Subcommittee on Economic Development and Tourism met to hear presentations on a proposed downtown Lexington Arts Center. Visit Lex opened by framing the projects as regional economic development efforts that could support tourism, quality of life, and workforce attraction and retention. NextStage Development Corp. and ATG Entertainment then described a proposed $120 million project featuring a 2,500-seat performing arts center and a 20,000-square-foot visual arts gallery, with plans for up to 180 events a year, over 300,000 annual visitors, and an opening target of 2029. The presenters said the project would be funded through a $30 million state request, $30 million from ATG Entertainment, and $60 million raised by the nonprofit through philanthropy and other financing sources. They cited a feasibility study by Sound Diplomacy and compared the proposal to the Durham Performing Arts Center, arguing that similar venues have driven downtown revitalization, tourism, and economic activity in other cities. They also said the venue would include community access, school partnerships, subsidized tickets, and revenue returned to the nonprofit for grants and arts programming. Members asked about the total cost, the funding mix, whether the city of Lexington would contribute, and the building’s design. The presenters said they are in contact with city officials and are seeking city support, but have not yet hired an architect or begun conceptual design. They said the design process will involve community input and should fit Lexington’s historic downtown character. Representative Whitten asked whether the project would compete with Louisville; the presenters responded that their market analysis suggests the venue would serve audiences from Lexington, eastern Kentucky, and surrounding areas who are unlikely to travel to Louisville or Cincinnati, making the project complementary rather than competitive.

Transcript Highlights:

• But stopping along the way and kind of connecting to culture, natural beauty, as well.
• more connections than we know. more connections than we know.
• <00:28:39.040> I<00:28:39.080> I<00:28:39.400> I'm connect to.
• I I I'm connect to.
• And we can get you a connection to that. And we can get you a connection to that.

Keywords: 1183, house

Transcript Highlights:

• Connect. Corrales? Cortez? Yes. Isaac? Aye. Dorazio? Aye.
• There are about 700 institutions in the United States connected to the government of the China.
• You know, his connection with the Chinese Communist Party, how many times has he been in the consulate
• Its grand strategy on biotech is about connecting people's DNA to build a national DNA bank.
• So there is no connection. It can be completely offline where there is no connection.

Bills: HB17, HB34, HB41, HB 118, HB 119, HB 127, HB 128, HB 129, HB 130, HB132, HB133, HB17, HB41, HB118, HB119, HB127, HB128, HB129, HB130, HB132, HB133

Keywords: foreign ownership, real estate, national security, designated countries, Texas property law, lobbying, foreign adversaries, compensation prohibition, transparency, civil penalties, higher education, foreign adversary, research security, trade secrets, academic partnerships, HB 128, sister city, sister-city agreement, international exchange, municipal diplomacy