Transcript Highlights:

• had in<00:49:02.000><c> the</c><00:49:02.160><c> west</c><00:49:02.319><c> side</c><00:49:02.960><c>
• And<00:49:16.079><c> so</c><00:49:16.559><c> I</c><00:49:16.800><c> just</c><00:49:17.040><c> see,</c
• ><00:49:17.520><c> you</c><00:49:17.680><c> know,</c><00:49:18.000><c> we</c><00:49:18.319><c> talk</
• 00:49:26.480><c> where</c><00:49:26.720><c> we</c><00:49:26.960><c> can</c><00:49:27.119><c> also</c>
• So<00:49:36.000><c> I</c><00:49:36.160><c> just</c><00:49:36.319><c> wanted</c><00:49:36.480><c> to</

Bills: SB2064 , SB2312 , SB2811 , SB2662 , SB2744 , SB2809 , SB2862 , SB2343 , SB2336 , SB2075 , SB2308 , SB2601 , SB2397 , SB2219 , SB2849 , SB2449 , SB2781

Committee: Senate Government Operations

Keywords: state architect, construction projects, design approvals, building codes, state agency oversight, government contracts, transparency, record retention, public oversight, Hawaii Revised Statutes, building permits, task force, state-owned lands, construction, regulatory process, government accountability, external consultants, procurement reform, cost efficiency, in-house expertise

Summary: The committee heard several government operations measures, beginning with SB 2064 on state construction projects, which would create an office of the state architect within DAGS to oversee design review and approvals for state construction. DAGS said it stood on its written testimony, DECAB supported the bill, DOT supported it, and HGA opposed it. No audience testimony or member questions were taken, and the chair moved on. The committee then took up SB 2312 on government contracts, which would make records held by private contractors performing government functions subject to UIPA. The State Procurement Office, Attorney General, OIP, ERS, DHS, and HGA offered comments or opposition, while the League of Women Voters, Public First Law Center, All Hawaii News, Grassroots, and several individuals supported the bill. Public First Law Center argued the bill closes a loophole and does not expand or reduce existing exemptions, while OIP and others raised concerns about privacy, confidential information, and the need for clearer procedures. Members discussed possible clarifying amendments, including changing “government function” to “agency,” and the bill was left for further consideration. Other measures discussed included SB 2662 on government accountability, which would require justification and caps for external consultants; ERS and DOT opposed it, while the American Council of Engineering Companies of Hawaii and Airlines Committee of Hawaii argued consultants are often more efficient and necessary for major projects. The committee also heard SB 2744 on due process, for which no testimony was received; SB 2809 on budget-related reports, with comments from B&F and the Tax Foundation; SB 2862 on gubernatorial appointments, opposed by the Governor’s Office and the Hawaii Correctional System Oversight Commission and supported by one individual; a bill on continuous legislative sessions, with comments from B&F, LRB, and Hope for Hawaii; SB 2336 on tree management standards, supported by an individual and the Outdoor Circle; and SB 2075 on public procurement local preferences, which drew broad support with comments from SPO and the Attorney General and discussion of simplifying the preference structure. No votes were taken in the excerpt, and the chair repeatedly moved measures along after testimony and questions.

Transcript Highlights:

• for<00:49:02.760><c> the</c><00:49:02.880><c> interruption</c><00:49:03.640><c> okay</c><00:49:04.240
• <00:49:06.799><c> that</c><00:49:06.920><c> we</c><00:49:07.040><c> have</c><00:49:07.160><c> for</c>
• match<00:49:08.160><c> now</c><00:49:09.040><c> would</c><00:49:09.319><c> give</c><00:49:09.480><c>
• ><c> to</c><00:49:10.880><c> apply</c><00:49:11.480><c> for</c><00:49:12.480><c> the</c><00:49:13.040
• :49:38.440><c> to</c><01:49:38.520><c> look</c><01:49:38.719><c> at</c><01:49:38.960><c> all</c><01:49

Committee: Senate Capital Investment

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• ><c> any</c><00:49:06.240><c> type</c><00:49:06.400><c> of</c><00:49:06.640><c> ex</c><00:49:07.200><
• ex higher fee and<00:49:08.960><c> in</c><00:49:09.359><c> instead</c><00:49:09.839><c> it</c><00:49:
• ><c> is</c><00:49:15.200><c> a</c><00:49:16.559><c> a</c><00:49:16.720><c> bill,</c><00:49:17.040><c>
• /c><00:49:35.680><c> bottom</c><00:49:36.079><c> section</c><00:49:36.400><c> has</c><00:49:36.720><c
• ><00:49:41.280><c> out</c><00:49:41.440><c> when</c><00:49:41.599><c> it</c><00:49:41.760><c> was</c>

Bills: SB57 , SB155 , HB39 , HB77 , HB104 , SB57 , SB155 , HB39 , HB77 , HB104

Committee: Senate Finance and Taxation General Fund

Keywords: property, acknowledgment, conveyance, business entities, limited liability companies, state employees, payroll deduction, salary deduction, comptroller, membership association, membership dues, voluntary contributions, insurance premiums, financial instruments, deferred compensation, state payroll, employee benefits, association dues, withholding, Alabama Code 36-1-4.3

Transcript Highlights:

• Uh<00:49:02.319><c> testifying</c><00:49:02.880><c> next</c><00:49:03.119><c> sign</c><00:49:03.440><
• &gt;&gt; Thank<00:49:06.720><c> you</c><00:49:06.880><c> chairs,</c><00:49:07.280><c> vice</c><00:49:
• to</c><00:49:13.440><c> recognize</c><00:49:13.760><c> the</c><00:49:14.000><c> work</c><00:49:14.160
• Chair Herd and<00:49:18.160><c> Chair</c><00:49:18.400><c> Chang</c><00:49:18.720><c> have</c><00:49:
• 49:40.000><c> bit</c><01:49:40.080><c> of</c><01:49:40.239><c> money</c><01:49:40.800><c> uh</c><01:49

Bills: SB2606 , SB3253 , SB237 , SB3252 , SB1178 , SB2322 , SB2019 , SB3043 , SB3014 , SB2972 , SB1190 , SB2488

Committee: Senate Water, Land, Culture and the Arts

Keywords: wildlife sanctuary, environmental conservation, Hawaii, nonprofit corporation, freshwater preservation, community stewardship, biodiversity, ecological heritage, conservation, endangered species, wildlife preservation, native birds, sanctuary, nonprofit, DLNR, agricultural district, land use, chapter 195D, chapter 205, chapter 42F

Summary: The committees heard testimony on several measures related to wildlife, conservation, shoreline adaptation, and climate governance. On SB 2606, which would establish the Freshwater State Recreational Area Wildlife Sanctuary Corporation, the Department of Land and Natural Resources said it had concerns about employee eligibility and was not yet prepared to comment further on the bill’s ramifications. After testimony ended, a senator asked DLNR to follow up with more detail, and the department said it would relay the questions to leadership and respond later. No vote was taken on the measure during the excerpt. On SB 3253, which would create the Hawaii Conservation Sanctuary as a nonprofit entity to work with DLNR, the department said it supported the bill. In discussion, DLNR said Hawaii has not done anything like this before, described a similar model in New Zealand, and estimated that developing such a sanctuary could cost millions of dollars. Members also discussed whether the concept would fit with existing efforts such as Hakalau, and DLNR said the bill could apply to private or state lands depending on the site. No action was taken. The most extensive discussion was on SB 237, which would expand state and county authority to develop adaptation pathways for relocating infrastructure away from sea level rise and coastal flooding areas. DLNR supported the bill, saying it prioritizes public trust resources over economic development or private property. The Kahana Bay Steering Committee and the Shoreline Preservation Coalition opposed the measure, arguing it was too focused on managed retreat and should include a broader range of shoreline responses, such as erosion mitigation, groins, sand nourishment, and other interim protections. The Office of Planning and Sustainable Development said it appreciated the bill’s intent but wanted broader language that would allow more tools in the toolbox. Members debated whether retreat is inevitable, whether different shorelines require different approaches, and whether the bill should be more flexible. No vote was taken. The final measure discussed was SB 3252, which would amend the powers and duties of the Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission, create a coordinator position, and appropriate funds. The commission’s coordinator testified in support, while OPSD opposed the bill, saying it would remove the two cabinet-level co-chair positions, raise accountability concerns, and duplicate some of OPSD’s functions. In questioning, members debated whether the current commission structure has been effective, who would appoint or confirm the coordinator, and whether the bill would improve transparency and implementation. OPSD said it supported more statewide interdepartmental funding for climate planning and staffing, but had concerns about the proposed governance changes. No vote or final action was taken in the excerpt.

Transcript Highlights:

• of</c><00:49:05.440><c> this</c><00:49:05.760><c> so</c><00:49:06.760><c> uh</c><00:49:06.960><c> I'm
• not as<00:49:11.079><c> quickly</c><00:49:11.400><c> as</c><00:49:11.559><c> some</c><00:49:11.960><c
• ><c> we're</c><00:49:14.160><c> supportive</c><00:49:14.640><c> of</c><00:49:14.799><c> the</c><00:49
• ><c> desire</c><00:49:22.960><c> here</c><00:49:23.960><c> uh</c><00:49:24.280><c> however</c><00:49:
• /c><00:49:25.920><c> bill</c><00:49:26.280><c> as</c><00:49:26.400><c> it</c><00:49:26.720><c> is</c>

Committee: Senate Energy and Natural Resources

Keywords: 1191, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• :09.319><c> turn</c><00:49:09.559><c> into</c><00:49:09.839><c> one</c><00:49:10.040><c> big</c><00:49
• ><00:49:13.839><c> you</c><00:49:14.040><c> can't</c><00:49:14.280><c> afford</c><00:49:14.559><c> to
• presentation</c><00:49:46.000><c> and</c><00:49:46.119><c> the</c><00:49:46.240><c> general</c><00:49
• ><c> a</c><00:49:51.720><c> possible</c><00:49:52.200><c> solution</c><00:49:52.960><c> to</c><00:49:
• just here<00:49:58.319><c> on</c><00:49:58.480><c> a</c><00:49:58.680><c> whim</c><00:49:59.359><c>

Keywords: Meeting Start 00:01 Roll Call 00:16 HB 211 Discussion 02:55 HB 211 Vote 16:30 HB 160 Discussion 18:50 HB 160 Vote 52:06 Adjournment 57:35, 958, all

Summary: The House Standing Committee on Local Government met for its first meeting of the year, established a quorum, and heard two bills. House Bill 211, sponsored by Representative Chris Lewis, would create a definition for cigar bars and allow indoor cigar smoking in qualifying establishments if they meet criteria such as deriving at least 15% of gross income from cigar-related sales, restricting entry to those 21 and older, prohibiting cigarettes and vaping, and requiring a smoke-free area for deliveries. Lewis and Louisville Metro Council member Anthony Pantini described the bill as a small-business and tourism measure modeled on Tennessee law, while the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network and a St. Elizabeth physician opposed it, arguing it would undermine local smoke-free ordinances and expose patrons and workers to harmful secondhand smoke. Several members raised local-control concerns, and Lewis said he was open to local governments making decisions on less restrictive approaches. The committee adopted a committee substitute and then approved HB 211 on a roll call vote, with multiple members voting yes and several no votes, sending the bill forward as amended. The committee then heard House Bill 160 from Representative Susan Whitten, with Logan Haynes of the Kentucky Manufactured Housing Institute. They said Kentucky faces a housing shortage of roughly 200,000 units and that starter homes are increasingly unaffordable, making manufactured housing an important part of the solution. Whitten said the bill would treat manufactured housing more like site-built housing while still allowing local governments to enforce cosmetic standards such as roof pitch, exterior facade, and foundation material, and she emphasized that HOA, deed, and historical preservation restrictions would remain in place. Haynes argued that modern manufactured homes are federally and state inspected, more energy efficient, faster to build, and more affordable than site-built homes, and he said the bill would not open the door to older-style mobile homes or single-wides except in limited narrow-lot situations. Representatives from the Kentucky League of Cities and the Kentucky Association of Counties expressed concerns about the bill’s current language, saying land-use decisions should remain local and warning that the definition of qualified manufactured home and the bill’s treatment of local standards could have unintended consequences. They said they appreciated Whitten’s willingness to work with them and indicated they hoped to continue negotiating amendments as the bill moved forward. No vote on HB 160 was taken during the portion of the meeting provided.

Transcript Highlights:

• So this<00:49:02.079><c> time</c><00:49:02.240><c> I'm</c><00:49:02.480><c> here</c><00:49:02.720><c>
• support<00:49:09.760><c> to</c><00:49:10.000><c> support</c><00:49:10.319><c> their</c><00:49:10.640
• Vet<00:49:13.359><c> funding</c><00:49:13.599><c> is</c><00:49:13.760><c> critical</c><00:49:14.079><
• </c><00:49:20.319><c> that</c><00:49:20.559><c> is</c><00:49:20.800><c> devastating</c><00:49:21.359>
• every single<00:49:26.960><c> day</c><00:49:27.359><c> from</c><00:49:27.599><c> a</c><00:49:27.760>

Committee: Senate Judiciary and Public Safety

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Um New Hampshire<00:49:18.960><c> is</c><00:49:19.119><c> very</c><00:49:19.359><c> unique</c><00:49:
• :49:21.760><c> that</c><00:49:21.920><c> we</c><00:49:22.160><c> have</c><00:49:22.559><c> and</c><00
• Uh DOT currently<00:49:28.720><c> has</c><00:49:29.280><c> uh</c><00:49:29.440><c> multiple</c><00:49
• I'm<00:49:30.880><c> sure</c><00:49:30.960><c> the</c><00:49:31.119><c> assistant</c><00:49:31.440><c
• /c><00:49:35.200><c> are</c><00:49:35.359><c> mass</c><00:49:35.680><c> vacancies</c><00:49:36.160><c

Committee: Senate Transportation

Keywords: 1191, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• 2006 so<00:49:02.720><c> I'm</c><00:49:02.880><c> not</c><00:49:03.040><c> sure</c><00:49:03.200><c>
• Heinesman<00:49:09.119><c> to</c><00:49:09.280><c> respond</c><00:49:09.680><c> and</c><00:49:10.000
• :28.640><c> to</c><00:49:29.520><c> uh</c><00:49:29.839><c> larger</c><00:49:30.800><c> um</c><00:49:
• c> the</c><00:49:36.800><c> hub</c><00:49:37.040><c> of</c><00:49:37.280><c> that</c><00:49:37.599><c
• 00:49:47.680><c> as</c><00:49:47.920><c> a</c><00:49:48.160><c> local</c><00:49:48.480><c> sales</c><

Committee: Senate Taxes

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• <00:49:05.839><c> um</c><00:49:06.520><c> this</c><00:49:06.680><c> is</c><00:49:07.119><c> this</c><
• </c><00:49:11.240><c> and</c><00:49:11.400><c> have</c><00:49:11.599><c> something</c><00:49:11.920><
• c><00:49:16.400><c> um</c><00:49:16.760><c> so</c><00:49:17.200><c> with</c><00:49:17.440><c> that</c
• </c><00:49:18.799><c> chair</c><00:49:19.640><c> uh</c><00:49:19.799><c> we</c><00:49:19.920><c> do</
• :39.359><c> list</c><00:49:39.640><c> and</c><00:49:39.799><c> we</c><00:49:39.920><c> have</c><00:49

Committee: Senate Education Finance

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• > 13,</c><00:49:08.960><c> the</c><00:49:09.119><c> great</c><00:49:09.280><c> town</c><00:49:09.440>
• 49:16.160><c> letting</c><00:49:16.400><c> the</c><00:49:16.640><c> foxes</c><00:49:17.119><c> watch<
• </c><00:49:18.800><c> I</c><00:49:19.040><c> have</c><00:49:19.440><c> uh</c><00:49:19.839><c> 12</c>
• ><c> never</c><00:49:27.760><c> let</c><00:49:27.920><c> a</c><00:49:28.160><c> fox</c><00:49:29.520>
• 30.319><c> them</c><00:49:30.960><c> or</c><00:49:31.280><c> take</c><00:49:31.440><c> care</c><00:49

Committee: Senate Election Law and Municipal Affairs

Keywords: 1191, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• </c><00:49:08.960><c> that</c><00:49:10.079><c> uh</c><00:49:10.240><c> we</c><00:49:10.559><c> try</
• try our best<00:49:11.119><c> to</c><00:49:11.359><c> keep</c><00:49:11.520><c> up</c><00:49:11.760>
• c><00:49:14.720><c> do</c><00:49:14.880><c> so,</c><00:49:15.119><c> but</c><00:49:15.680><c> um</c>
• as well<00:49:18.480><c> and</c><00:49:18.640><c> that</c><00:49:18.880><c> is</c><00:49:19.040><c>
• I<00:49:23.359><c> didn't</c><00:49:23.520><c> realize</c><00:49:23.760><c> that</c><00:49:23.920><c>

Keywords: 910, house, all

Summary: The Committee on Culture and the Arts held an informational briefing with representatives from ʻIolani Palace and Bishop Museum to discuss how the Legislature can better support state-funded cultural institutions during the interim and into the next session. Chair Capella said the goal was to understand current needs, preserve Hawaiian culture and history, and expand educational access. No votes or formal actions were taken during the briefing. ʻIolani Palace’s representative described the Friends of ʻIolani Palace’s role as the nonprofit supporting repair, restoration, maintenance, and public education for the state monument. She said state operational funding and ARPA funds were critical to keeping the palace open, maintaining HVAC and other systems, and funding repairs that would otherwise fall to DLNR. She highlighted ongoing and planned projects including a fire suppression system, HVAC improvements, basement exhibit work, plumbing repairs, elevator replacement, etched glass restoration, and school-tour access. She also noted that a prior $150,000 CIP for windows and doors had not yet been released, and said the organization is exploring ways to bring more neighbor island students to the palace through transportation support, airline partnerships, and digital outreach. Bishop Museum’s representatives outlined the museum’s history, its role as the state museum of natural and cultural history, and its extensive collections in archives, archaeology, botany, entomology, zoology, and cryopreservation. They emphasized the museum’s work in preservation, research, environmental stewardship, and public education, including free access through Museums for All, daily programming, and cultural festivals and community events. They said state funding has been essential for staffing, IT security, fire suppression, and infrastructure needs, and that digitization of the museum’s 25 million objects is a major ongoing initiative to preserve and share Hawaiʻi’s history and knowledge.

Transcript Highlights:

• </c> Anytime<00:49:29.040><c> we</c><00:49:29.200><c> get</c><00:49:29.359><c> young</c><00:49:29.599
• Um,<00:49:36.559><c> so</c><00:49:36.960><c> question,</c><00:49:37.520><c> you</c><00:49:37.760><c>
• And where<00:49:41.280><c> I'm</c><00:49:41.440><c> going</c><00:49:41.599><c> with</c><00:49:41.839>
• <c> this</c><00:49:42.480><c> is</c><00:49:42.800><c> that</c><00:49:43.040><c> I</c><00:49:43.359><c
• ><c> I</c><00:49:48.640><c> would</c><00:49:48.800><c> argue</c><00:49:49.200><c> that</c><00:49:49.760

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The joint committees heard House Bill 643, House Draft 2, which would create short-term management initiatives and appropriate funds for the coconut rhinoceros beetle response program. Testimony was overwhelmingly supportive. Committee discussion focused on biocontrol efforts, including fungus and virus-based treatments, the need for a biosecure facility, and the timeline for testing and range studies. Department of Agriculture officials said initial testing is underway at the University of Hawaii, but full testing requires a higher-biosafety facility that is not yet available on island. Members also discussed funding levels, the possibility of a mobile facility, and whether the work could be accelerated. The committees later voted to pass HB 643 unamended. The committees also heard House Bill 736, House Draft 1, which would establish a three-year wastewater system and individual wastewater technology testing pilot program at the University of Hawaii Water Resources Research Center. Supporters said the bill could help certify new, lower-cost decentralized wastewater technologies and reduce the cost of cesspool upgrades while improving water quality. University of Hawaii witnesses explained that the center would test technologies, collect samples, analyze results, and provide reports to the Department of Health for certification. Members raised concerns about whether the program would help communities facing immediate wastewater issues, the length of the testing timeline, and whether technologies like the Genki ball could be included. The committee was told the pilot would likely test one technology at a time over about nine months each, though multiple tests could run in parallel later. The committees voted to pass HB 736 unamended. After those measures, the joint committee moved to an AEN-only agenda and began hearing STR 111 / SR 92, which declares a public health emergency relating to climate change and calls for statewide coordination on cross-sector solutions. Testimony in support came from the Department of Agriculture, Hawaii Public Health Institute, and others. Supporters said climate change affects public health through heat, wildfire risk, invasive mosquitoes, and other impacts, and argued that the response should involve agriculture, planning, transportation, and emergency management, not just the Department of Health.

Transcript Highlights:

• methods methods um<03:49:33.800><c> I</c><03:49:33.920><c> don't</c><03:49:34.120><c> think</c><03:49
• </c><03:49:36.720><c> um</c><03:49:37.239><c> requiring</c><03:49:38.239><c> uh</c><03:49:38.479><c>
• ><c> that</c><04:49:23.480><c> part</c><04:49:23.638><c> of</c><04:49:23.760><c> the</c><04:49:23.920
• :24.798><c> that</c><04:49:24.920><c> was</c><04:49:25.000><c> a</c><04:49:25.160><c> point</c><04:49
• </c><04:49:33.400><c> and</c><04:49:33.600><c> I</c><04:49:33.840><c> I</c><04:49:34.000><c> I'll</c>

Keywords: 928, house, all

Summary: The committee first took up HB 662, which would require discussion of abortion procedures and the viewing of certain videos in public school health education. Members argued the bill went too far by naming specific videos and involving the Attorney General in enforcement, and they said curriculum decisions should be left to educators. The committee voted ITL on HB 662 by a unanimous 18-0. The committee then considered HCR 6, a resolution calling for the removal of the superintendent of District 67. Members said the resolution targeted an individual and that the underlying dispute was already in court, so the matter should be left to the legal process. The motion to ITL passed 18-0. Next, HR 9, urging the Department of Education to emphasize STEM education, received broad support as a nonpartisan statement of priorities, and it also passed 18-0. HB 440, concerning educator licensing and shortages in Career and Technical Education, was amended to clarify that the bill applies to initial licensure only. After discussion about whether the amendment was necessary, the committee adopted Amendment 0188 unanimously and then voted OTPA on the bill as amended, 18-0. HB 222, which repealed the requirement for an MOU between charter schools and districts on services for students with disabilities, drew testimony that districts already provide substantial oversight through IEP processes and that the MOU requirement was burdensome and largely unenforced; the committee voted OTP 18-0. The committee then took up HB 719, which would repeal the right of first refusal for charter schools to purchase or lease unused district facilities. Supporters said the existing law had not generated complaints and could impede charter expansion, while opponents said the issue had not proven to be a problem and local control should be preserved. The committee voted ITL 17-1, with one member opposed and no minority report. The chair then postponed HB 184, a study committee bill on school start times, because it was scheduled for the next day, and the committee moved into a work session on bullying-related bills, discussing HB 108, HB 384, and HB 673 without taking final action in the portion provided.

Transcript Highlights:

• /c><00:49:05.359><c> of</c><00:49:05.359><c> the</c><00:49:05.599><c> time</c><00:49:06.240><c> and</
• :12.079><c> when</c><00:49:12.319><c> you</c><00:49:12.559><c> have</c><00:49:12.880><c> a</c><00:49:
• 00:49:19.680><c> who</c><00:49:19.920><c> are</c><00:49:20.079><c> living</c><00:49:20.319><c> in</c>
• /c><00:49:21.200><c> homelessness</c><00:49:21.599><c> or</c><00:49:21.839><c> in</c><00:49:22.000><c
• ><c> and</c><00:49:25.280><c> they</c><00:49:25.440><c> end</c><00:49:25.599><c> up</c><00:49:25.760>

Bills: HB1877 , HB2006 , HB2167 , HB2224 , HB1626 , HB1690 , HB2012

Committee: House Human Services & Homelessness

Keywords: LGBTQ+ rights, commission membership, representation, youth involvement, Hawaii legislation, child well-being, financial support, expectant mothers, Hawaii Rx kids program, economic stability, youth homelessness, financial assistance, housing instability, emergency services, transitioning youth, Medicaid, pharmaceutical benefits, human services, healthcare access, public funds

Summary: The committee heard testimony on HB 1877, which would expand the membership of the Hawaii State LGBTQ+ Commission and add a youth seat. The commission’s vice chair supported the bill, saying the commission started with eight members, has growing interest, and would benefit from an odd-numbered board and youth representation. Members asked about quorum, and the commission said it has generally met monthly with only one quorum issue in the past 18–19 months and would work with legislative leaders to have appointments ready if the bill passes. Written testimony included support from Kokopac and one individual in opposition. The committee then took up HB 2006, which would create a cash assistance program for pregnant women and mothers of babies. The Department of Human Services explained current TANF rules, including eligibility requirements, child support cooperation, and work-program participation, and said the state has recently raised benefit levels to the maximum allowed, with a family of three or four receiving a little over $900 per month. Supporters from the Hawaii Public Health Institute, Hawaii Children’s Action Network Speaks, and others argued the bill could reduce child poverty and improve maternal and child health, citing evidence from Michigan’s Rx Kids program and the temporary federal child tax credit expansion. A mother and Oahu Youth Action Board member testified from personal experience about the need for direct support during pregnancy. The committee also noted support from several organizations and about 26 individuals. The committee next heard HB 2167, which would direct the Office of Youth Services to run a pilot program providing financial assistance to homeless youth. The Office of the Public Defender, youth advocates, and several organizations supported the measure, saying even small amounts of help can prevent homelessness and help youth transition safely to adulthood. The Office of Youth Services said it supports the intent of the bill but requested clarification, and committee members discussed whether the program should be run directly or through contracted community agencies, how to set performance metrics, and how to structure the RFP and contract process. The chair indicated the committee wanted to work with the vice chair and OYS offline to refine the bill before moving forward. The committee then began discussion of HB 2224, relating to Medicaid pharmacy benefit management, with testimony generally supporting giving DHS flexibility to negotiate with PBMs.

Transcript Highlights:

• Uh, lastly, you're<00:49:07.599><c> going</c><00:49:07.680><c> to</c><00:49:07.760><c> find</c><00:49
• <00:49:12.880><c> are</c><00:49:13.200><c> under</c><00:49:13.359><c> the</c><00:49:13.520><c> open</
• </c><00:49:16.319><c> We've</c><00:49:16.640><c> taken</c><00:49:16.880><c> out</c><00:49:17.119><c>
• 00:49:20.880><c> it'll</c><00:49:21.119><c> all</c><00:49:21.359><c> come</c><00:49:21.520><c> under<
• </c><00:49:30.480><c> President,</c><00:49:30.720><c> I</c><00:49:30.880><c> will</c><00:49:31.040><c

Keywords: MS Senate Floor - 11 February, 2026; 10:00 AM, 925, all

Transcript Highlights:

• <c> doing</c><00:49:04.359><c> is</c><00:49:04.480><c> doing</c><00:49:04.799><c> it</c><00:49:05.000
• 49:11.400><c> happy</c><00:49:11.559><c> to</c><00:49:11.680><c> answer</c><00:49:11.880><c> any</c>
• </c><00:49:23.079><c> states</c><00:49:23.640><c> it's</c><00:49:24.480><c> it's</c><00:49:24.720><c>
• <00:49:26.880><c> think</c><00:49:27.000><c> is</c><00:49:27.319><c> kind</c><00:49:27.400><c> of</c>
• 01:49:49.599><c> not</c><01:49:49.760><c> to</c><01:49:49.880><c> be</c><01:49:50.040><c> in</c><01:49

Keywords: 928, house, all

Summary: The committee heard testimony on HB 733-FN, a bill concerning third-party litigation financing (TPLF). Representative Cole, the prime sponsor, described TPLF as outside investors funding lawsuits in which they have no personal stake, arguing that the practice is largely unregulated, can involve foreign entities, increases litigation abuse, and contributes to higher insurance and consumer costs. He said the bill is modeled on an NCOIL proposal and would require disclosure of TPLF agreements, with guardrails and reporting requirements on specified pages of the bill. He also noted a couple of drafting fixes, including adding the word “knowingly” and incorporating a missing section later. Members raised questions about the bill’s foreign-entity language, especially the provision allowing a governor or the Department of Safety to designate a country as a threat to critical infrastructure. Representative Cole said he would have lawyers review that issue. Another member asked whether the bill would prohibit a party from obtaining outside funding for a lawsuit; Cole clarified that the bill is intended as a reporting measure, not a ban, and that disclosure would be required. He also said the bill is aimed at American citizens rather than foreign-backed financing, and that some states had considered caps on such arrangements, though this bill does not. Brandon Gratz of the Attorney General’s office testified that the enforcement language appears too limited, because it would allow only civil penalties and not broader Consumer Protection Act remedies such as injunctions or restitution. He suggested the Attorney General may not have meaningful authority under the bill as written and raised possible insurance-law issues. Commissioner D.J. Benton-Court of the Insurance Department said the disclosure could help insurers better assess risk and potentially soften the hard insurance market by improving transparency, competition, underwriting, innovation, and claims management. He also said the bill likely needs further work on jurisdiction and enforcement, and that the committee may need to coordinate with the Attorney General, Insurance Department, and possibly banking regulators. No vote was taken in the portion provided.

Transcript Highlights:

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• :49:03.760><c> have</c><00:49:03.839><c> that</c><00:49:04.079><c> data</c><00:49:04.640><c> with</c>
• don't<00:49:08.640><c> have</c><00:49:08.720><c> any</c><00:49:08.960><c> authority</c><00:49:09.760
• > judges</c><00:49:14.000><c> in</c><00:49:14.240><c> that</c><00:49:14.400><c> in</c><00:49:14.640><
• <00:49:24.880><c> we</c><00:49:25.040><c> do</c><00:49:25.200><c> get</c><00:49:25.359><c> a</c><00:49

Keywords: Call to Order and Roll Call- 00:00:02 Statewide Emergency Response System Monthly Update- 00:02:23 Shock Probation: Administrative Office of the Courts-00:34:28 Shock Probation: Department of Corrections Oversight-01:04:04 Adjournment-01:12:22, 958, all

Summary: The committee received an update on Kentucky’s statewide emergency responder voice system (SERVS) and the supporting microwave network, known as KYeS. Michael Brandon Marshall, the state’s statewide interoperability coordinator, explained that the project began as a replacement for Kentucky State Police’s radio system and has expanded into a statewide public-safety trunked radio system. He reviewed work completed in phases 1 and 2, including upgrades to existing tower sites, construction of new sites, installation of generators and DC power plants, and replacement of microwave routers and stations. He said the microwave upgrade is a separate but necessary part of the project and that the remaining microwave work on existing sites is expected to be finished in 2026, with roughly 20 more sites likely to move from blue to green by the next monthly report if conditions allow. Members pressed Marshall on the pace of deployment and the lack of coverage in parts of Eastern Kentucky. Senator Thomas said the coverage map was especially unfavorable to counties from Whitley and McCreary up to Lewis County and asked when that gap would be fixed. Marshall said the eastern buildout is planned, but those areas have not yet been funded; he estimated that by the end of 2026 the areas around Posts 14, 8, and 11 should be live, while other eastern post areas would remain unbuilt until additional funding is provided. He said the decision to start in Western Kentucky was technical rather than political, based on terrain and the relative ease of building coverage over flatter ground. Senator Wheeler asked whether newer low-orbit satellite systems such as Starlink could reduce the need for tower construction. Marshall said satellite technology could be a useful tool, especially for outdoor or disaster-response communications, but it cannot replace terrestrial radio for public safety because responders often work indoors and need reliable penetration through buildings. He also noted that lower-frequency spectrum such as 700 MHz is better suited for that purpose. Representative Smith asked about contracting and delays; Marshall said the Finance Cabinet’s DECA manages the construction contracts, while his office helps define the scope of work and reviews whether it is adequately met. The committee indicated it will continue to receive monthly updates on the project.

Transcript Highlights:

• :49:06.160><c> found</c><00:49:06.480><c> gangs</c><00:49:07.280><c> they</c><00:49:07.400><c> found<
• </c><00:49:13.160><c> bring</c><00:49:13.359><c> them</c><00:49:13.799><c> back</c><00:49:14.799><c>
• because the<00:49:26.000><c> system</c><00:49:26.280><c> failed</c><00:49:26.839><c> them</c><00:49:
• :49:29.839><c> the</c><00:49:30.040><c> power</c><00:49:30.359><c> to</c><00:49:30.559><c> invest</c>
• as</c><00:49:34.599><c> a</c><00:49:34.760><c> full-time</c><00:49:35.160><c> single</c><00:49:35.520

Committee: Senate Health and Human Services

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

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• I<00:49:28.400><c> will</c><00:49:28.559><c> also</c><00:49:28.800><c> be</c><00:49:28.960><c> voting
• uh<00:49:38.880><c> recommending</c><00:49:39.359><c> that</c><00:49:39.599><c> we</c><00:49:40.480>
• Quickly go.<00:49:58.240><c> Um</c><00:49:58.720><c> can</c><00:49:58.880><c> I</c><00:49:59.040><c>
• ask</c><00:49:59.200><c> the</c><00:49:59.359><c> chair</c><00:49:59.760><c> what</c><00:49:59.920><c

Committee: House Public Safety

Keywords: 910, house, all

Summary: The Committee on Public Safety heard several resolutions, including HCR 944/HR 90 to request a gubernatorial proclamation designating Hawaii as a Purple Heart state on August 7, 2025; HCR 205/HR 197 urging Maui County and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to expedite a permanent replacement for the Kulani Hakoi Bridge; and HCR 164/HR 159 urging counties to maintain an electronically accessible list of hurricane refuge shelters. No one testified on the first two measures. On the hurricane shelter resolution, the Hawaii State Council on Developmental Disabilities supported the intent and requested a wording change from “special needs” to “access and functional needs.” The committee then heard HCR 70, which asks the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation to expand personal and professional development programs to include community service programs. Director Tommy Johnson said DCR supports the intent and described existing community service work lines at Kulani, the women’s correctional facility, and Wawa, including tasks such as pothole repair, tree trimming, and school grounds work. In response to questions, he said participation depends on inmate eligibility, volunteer status, and whether the work would interfere with programming; inmates must have no serious misconducts in the prior year and no escape attempts. He also explained that some work lines are tied to security classifications and facility type. The committee spent the most time on HCR 153/HR 148, which requests DCR to incrementally reduce the number of inmates housed in private out-of-state facilities. The ACLU of Hawaii strongly supported the resolution, arguing that private prisons are unsafe and that Hawaii should bring incarcerated people home. The ACLU cited federal findings and actions against private prison contractors, conditions at the Saguaro facility in Arizona, and the need for in-state rehabilitation and oversight. Director Johnson also supported the measure in principle but said population levels, security classifications, and available in-state facilities limit how quickly people can be returned. He said DCR provides annual reports on inmates eligible to return and suggested more frequent reporting could be considered. Committee members discussed benchmarks, quarterly reporting, parole, and reintegration services, and the ACLU argued that other states have reduced or phased out private prison use through sentencing reform, parole changes, and reintegration programs. No votes or final actions were taken in the portion provided.