Bills: SB2 , SB3 , SB4 , SB5 , SB6 , SB7 , SB8 , SB9 , SB10 , SB11 , SB12 , SB13 , SB14 , SB15 , SB16 , SB18 , SB34 , SB2 , SB3 , SB4 , SB5 , SB6 , SB7 , SB8 , SB9 , SB10 , SB11 , SB12 , SB13 , SB14 , SB15 , SB16 , SB18 , SB34 , SB 2 , SB 3 , SB 4 , SB 5 , SB 6 , SB 7 , SB 8 , SB 9 , SB 10 , SB 11 , SB 12 , SB 13 , SB 14 , SB 15 , SB 16 , SB 17 , SB 18 , SB 34 , SB2 , SB3 , SB4 , SB5 , SB6 , SB7 , SB8 , SB9 , SB10 , SB11 , SB12 , SB13 , SB14 , SB15 , SB16 , SB17 , SB18 , SB34

Keywords: flooding, public safety, outdoor warning sirens, disaster preparedness, emergency response, flood warning, outdoor sirens, local government, safety measures, flood management, emergency preparedness, municipal safety, disaster response, disaster relief, emergency funding, Meteorological forecasting, local government assistance, training facilities, Texas congressional redistricting, U.S. House districts

Transcript Highlights:

• commencing at 12 o'clock p.m. on Friday, August 15, 2025, for the following purposes: To consider and act
• regular session that protects victims of human trafficking from criminal liability for nonviolent acts

Bills: SB2 , SB3 , SB4 , SB5 , SB6 , SB7 , SB8 , SB9 , SB10 , SB11 , SB12 , SB13 , SB14 , SB15 , SB16 , SB18 , SB34 , SB2 , SB3 , SB4 , SB5 , SB6 , SB7 , SB8 , SB9 , SB10 , SB11 , SB12 , SB13 , SB14 , SB15 , SB16 , SB18 , SB34 , SB 2 , SB 3 , SB 4 , SB 5 , SB 6 , SB 7 , SB 8 , SB 9 , SB 10 , SB 11 , SB 12 , SB 13 , SB 14 , SB 15 , SB 16 , SB 17 , SB 18 , SB 34 , SB2 , SB3 , SB4 , SB5 , SB6 , SB7 , SB8 , SB9 , SB10 , SB11 , SB12 , SB13 , SB14 , SB15 , SB16 , SB17 , SB18 , SB34

Keywords: flooding, public safety, outdoor warning sirens, disaster preparedness, emergency response, flood warning, outdoor sirens, local government, safety measures, flood management, emergency preparedness, municipal safety, disaster response, disaster relief, emergency funding, Meteorological forecasting, local government assistance, training facilities, Texas congressional redistricting, U.S. House districts

Transcript Highlights:

• I was born and raised right there at home in the Houston chapter.
• Houston beat Dallas, but I represent in Dallas now, so if I had the Houston and Dallas chapters, will
• I would be remiss if I didn't say thank you for helping us pass the Crown Act.
• A native of the Houston area, 13-year-old DJ first became interested in hip-hop and police work after
• HB5619 by Wilson relates to extending the Hazelwood Exemption Act to active-duty members.

Keywords: 1184, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Is that language from the original act?
• Volunteer firemen all of a sudden commit an act and in the performance of their duty...
• Yeah, by an act that was performed in their... And they're... ...department.
• From one duck hunter to another, thank you for bringing this bill. Thank you, Rep.
• From one duck hunter to another, thank you for bringing this bill. Thank you, Rep. All right.

Committee: House Judiciary

Summary: The House Committee on Judiciary met on March 19, 2006, and considered a series of mostly local and judicial bills. Early action included HB 436, which authorizes appointment of honorably discharged veterans as park wardens; supporters said it would give veterans meaningful service roles and improve park safety. The committee adopted an amendment requiring honorable discharge, employment qualification compliance if hired by a public entity, and firearms training where applicable, then reported the bill favorably. The committee also advanced HB 16, extending the jurisdiction of the City Court of Franklin, and HB 44, which shifts certain blight-related hearings in St. Bernard Parish from the Bureau of Administrative Adjudication to justices of the peace and constables; members asked about appeals, fines, jurisdictional limits, and whether the change would affect HOAs, and the bill was reported favorably. Members then approved HB 61 creating Battle of New Orleans Day, with an amendment clarifying holiday language and adding a detailed historical commemoration of the battle and its diverse forces. HB 233, which raises juror mileage reimbursement from 16 cents per mile to the state travel rate, drew support but also concern about the cost to local governments; the sponsor and members discussed the fiscal impact, and the bill was reported favorably. HB 164, expanding commissioner powers in the 15th Judicial District Court, was also reported favorably after testimony that it would help manage caseloads and mirror procedures used in other districts. HB 455, defining public works employees as first responders for coordination and recognition purposes, generated extensive questions about emergency authority, FEMA reimbursement, workers’ compensation, liability, and unintended consequences; the committee deferred the bill to a later meeting for further review. The committee also approved HB 242, authorizing deputy constables in St. Tammany Parish at no state cost, and HB 10, making the Friday of the International Rice Festival a legal holiday in Acadia Parish. HB 9, designating Shreveport as the stuffed shrimp capital of Louisiana, was reported favorably after light discussion. HB 571, which would make permanent the complex litigation section program in the 19th Judicial District Court, was supported by judges and court staff who said it improves efficiency in large cases such as asbestos and hurricane litigation; it was reported favorably. Finally, HB 16 and several other local measures moved forward without objection, while the committee also heard a deeply personal presentation on HB 61 designating February 24 as SCN2A Awareness Day, later amended to honor Emily Catherine Diedon by name; members expressed sympathy, discussed genetic testing and access to care, and reported the bill favorably as amended.

Transcript Highlights:

• Our corporate headquarters is inside the Houston Loop.
• I am 20 years old and I am from Houston.
• We're T&T Crane, based out of Houston.
• There's a clinic in Houston that's in a strip mall, okay, and you...
• I was a controller and an acting CFO for a Raytheon company.

Bills: SB 30 , SB 517 , SB 1313 , SB 1314 , SB 1316 , SB 1541 , SB 1698 , SB 1845 , SB 1860 , SB 2420 , SB 2429

Committee: Senate State Affairs

Keywords: gambling, criminal offenses, penalties, defense, electronic devices, tobacco advertising, youth protection, public health, criminal offense, retailer regulation, e-cigarettes, nicotine products, health, public safety, regulation, advertising restrictions, health and safety, elections, election audit, county elections

Summary: The Senate Committee on State Affairs convened to discuss several critical pieces of legislation including SB30 and SB38. Senator Betancourt introduced a committee substitute for SB38 which underwent a smooth adoption process, moving it favorably toward the Senate. The meeting featured a mix of invited testimonies where both proponents and opponents took the floor. One notable highlight included a testimony from Melissa Casey, who criticized the current legal state as prone to fraud and detrimental to both insurers and the public at large, contending that it inflated insurance costs across the board. The discussions delved deeply into the implications of the bills on judicial processes and potential insurance ramifications, with spirited debates surrounding issues of non-economic damages and jury rights. The atmosphere remained engaged as committee members heard varied perspectives on the bills, showcasing a robust democratic process. The meeting underscored the importance of public testimony in shaping legislation, ensuring that multiple voices were considered as the committee pressed on towards making decisions that affect the legal landscape of Texas.

Transcript Highlights:

• As it relates to somebody who’s committing a violent act in our communities as part of a criminal syndicate
• , and we’re seeing, Who’s committing a violent act in our communities as part of a criminal syndicate
• , and we're seeing, who's committing a violent act in our communities as part of a criminal syndicate
• I'm a hunter.
• Houston PD has come. Dallas is actually coming. From across the nation. Houston PD has come.

Committee: House House Judiciary Committee of Reference

Summary: The House Judiciary Committee first conducted a sunset review of the Arizona Civil Rights Advisory Board. The board’s executive director described its history, structure, and recent work on civil rights issues such as human trafficking remedies, service animals, hate-based crimes, housing, disability access, and rural concerns. With no opposition testimony, the committee voted to recommend continuing the board for eight years. The committee then heard HB 2131, which would make trafficking more than three weapons or explosives ineligible for pardon or early release and remove the requirement that trafficking be for financial gain. Support came from the Arizona Attorney General’s Office, the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office, and the Yavapai County Attorney, who said the bill targets criminal syndicates and does not affect lawful gun dealers or private sales. Some members raised concerns that the bill could limit judicial discretion, but the committee voted 7-0 with one present to recommend the bill do pass. HB 2132, which lowers the fentanyl threshold for enhanced penalties from 200 grams to 100 grams, drew strong support from law enforcement and county attorneys who said fentanyl trafficking is driving overdoses and homicide investigations, especially in rural counties. Opponents, including a criminal defense attorney and a recovery advocate, argued the bill could sweep in people with substance use disorders and push more people into prison instead of treatment. After debate about prevention, treatment, and mandatory minimums, the committee voted 7-2 to recommend the bill do pass. The committee also approved HB 2108, which increases penalties for unlawful flight when the conduct recklessly endangers others, causes serious injury, involves a child under 13, or occurs during a DUI. Law enforcement supported the measure as a public safety tool, while an opponent argued it could worsen tensions with police. The committee voted 6-3 to recommend the bill do pass. Finally, HB 2044, as amended, would increase penalties for abandoning or concealing a dead human body when done to conceal a crime or when the offender caused the death. The sponsor and county attorney said the bill closes a gap in cases involving mutilation or concealment of bodies; a defense attorney warned the language was too broad and could create ambiguity. The committee adopted the amendment and then voted 6-3 to recommend the bill do pass.

Transcript Highlights:

• Keegan King, who is the hunter.
• I lived in Houston for 50 years. Thank you. Thank you very much.

Committee: Senate Senate Conservation

Keywords: 996, all

Transcript Highlights:

• , Ryan as an acting director for DLNR, Ryan Kanakao'le.
• The Senate didn't only preserve Act 46, it enhanced it.
• That is the difference between Act 46 That is the difference between Act 46 and SB 3125 CD2.
• Act 46 started the conversation; SB 3125 CD2 secures it.
• In 1974, we passed the prepaid healthcare act. In 1974, we passed the prepaid healthcare act.

Bills: HB1800 , HB1860 , HB2250 , HB472 , HB649 , HB1391 , HB1481 , HB1509 , HB1511 , HB1515 , HB1518 , HB1541 , HB1548 , HB1576 , HB1618 , HB1642 , HB1643 , HB1661 , HB1667 , HB1678 , HB1682 , HB1688 , HB1692 , HB1707 , HB1710 , HB1711 , HB1713 , HB1718 , HB1721 , HB1728 , HB1737 , HB1740 , HB1741 , HB1785 , HB1801 , HB1802 , HB1804 , HB1810 , HB1815 , HB1824 , HB1838 , HB1839 , HB1853 , HB1854 , HB1864 , HB1870 , HB1881 , HB1888 , HB1890 , HB1891 , HB1894 , HB1920 , HB1959 , HB1960 , HB1969 , HB1973 , HB1974 , HB2023 , HB2050 , HB2078 , HB2094 , HB2095 , HB2104 , HB2137 , HB2152 , HB2158 , HB2171 , HB2207 , HB2218 , HB2246 , HB2270 , HB2271 , HB2272 , HB2279 , HB2282 , HB2289 , HB2293 , HB2297 , HB2300 , HB2309 , HB2310 , HB2314 , HB2319 , HB2329 , HB2338 , HB2339 , HB2344 , HB2361 , HB2385 , HB2395 , HB2417 , HB2429 , HB2443 , HB2452 , HB2474 , HB2475 , HB2498 , HB2505 , HB2547 , HB2576

Keywords: supplemental appropriations, state budget, Hawaii budget, biennial budget, capital improvement projects, CIP, general fund, special fund, green fee, special land and development fund, clean energy revolving loan fund, agricultural development revolving fund, community grants, nonprofit grants, Office of Community Services, housing, affordable housing, homelessness, health care, mental health

Transcript Highlights:

• A warm, humble act of grace for a staff that was far from home, reminding them not just where they came

Bills: HB1800 , HB1860 , HB2250 , HB472 , HB649 , HB1391 , HB1481 , HB1509 , HB1511 , HB1515 , HB1518 , HB1541 , HB1548 , HB1576 , HB1618 , HB1642 , HB1643 , HB1661 , HB1667 , HB1678 , HB1682 , HB1688 , HB1692 , HB1707 , HB1710 , HB1711 , HB1713 , HB1718 , HB1721 , HB1728 , HB1737 , HB1740 , HB1741 , HB1785 , HB1801 , HB1802 , HB1804 , HB1810 , HB1815 , HB1824 , HB1838 , HB1839 , HB1853 , HB1854 , HB1864 , HB1870 , HB1881 , HB1888 , HB1890 , HB1891 , HB1894 , HB1920 , HB1959 , HB1960 , HB1969 , HB1973 , HB1974 , HB2023 , HB2050 , HB2078 , HB2094 , HB2095 , HB2104 , HB2137 , HB2152 , HB2158 , HB2171 , HB2207 , HB2218 , HB2246 , HB2270 , HB2271 , HB2272 , HB2279 , HB2282 , HB2289 , HB2293 , HB2297 , HB2300 , HB2309 , HB2310 , HB2314 , HB2319 , HB2329 , HB2338 , HB2339 , HB2344 , HB2361 , HB2385 , HB2395 , HB2417 , HB2429 , HB2443 , HB2452 , HB2474 , HB2475 , HB2498 , HB2505 , HB2547 , HB2576

Keywords: supplemental appropriations, state budget, Hawaii budget, biennial budget, capital improvement projects, CIP, general fund, special fund, green fee, special land and development fund, clean energy revolving loan fund, agricultural development revolving fund, community grants, nonprofit grants, Office of Community Services, housing, affordable housing, homelessness, health care, mental health

Transcript Highlights:

• Thank you, Acting Speaker.
• Acting Speaker.
• Acting Speaker.
• Acting Speaker.
• Acting Speaker.

Bills: HR91 , HR92 , HR93 , HCR44 , HR84 , HR85 , HR86 , HR87 , HR88 , HR89 , HR90 , HCR42 , HCR43 , SCR21 , HB483 , HB484 , HB893 , HB1087 , HB1088 , HB1089 , HB1090 , HB1091 , HB1092 , HB1093 , HB1094 , HB1095 , HB1096 , HB1097 , HB1098 , HB1099 , HB1100 , HB1101 , HB1102 , HB1103 , HB1104 , HB1105 , HB1106 , HB1107 , HB1108 , HB1109 , HB1110 , HB1111 , HB1112 , HB1113 , HB1114 , HB1116 , HB1117 , HB1118 , HB1119 , HB1120 , HB1121 , HB1122 , HB1123 , HB1124 , HB1125 , HB1126 , HB1127 , HB1128 , HB1129 , HB1130 , HB1131 , HB1132 , HB1133 , HB1134 , HB1135 , HB1136 , HB1137 , HB1138 , HB1139 , HB1140 , HB1141 , HB1142 , HB1143 , HB1144 , HB1145 , HB1146 , HB1147 , HB1148 , HB1149 , HB1150 , HB1151 , HB1152 , HB1153 , HB1154 , HB1155 , HB1156 , HB1157 , HB1158 , HB1159 , HB1160 , HB1161 , HB1162 , HB1163 , HB1164 , HB1165 , HB1166 , HB1167 , HB1168 , HB1169 , HB1170 , HB1171 , HB1172 , HB1173 , HB1174 , HB1175 , HB1176 , HB1177 , HB1178 , HB1179 , HB1180 , HB1181 , HB1182 , HB1183 , HB1184 , HB1185 , HB1186 , HB1187 , HB1188 , HB1189 , HB1190 , HB1191 , HB1192 , HB1193 , HB1194 , HB1195 , HB1196 , HB1197 , HB1198 , HB1199 , HB1200 , HB1201 , HB1202 , HB1203 , HB1204 , HB1205 , HB1206 , HB1207 , HB1208 , HB1209 , HB1210 , HB1211 , HB1212 , HB1213 , HB1214 , HB1215 , HB1216 , HB1217 , HB1218 , HB1219 , HB1220 , HB1221 , HB1222 , HB1223 , HB1224 , HB1225 , HB1226 , HB1227 , HB1228 , HB1229 , HB1230 , HB1231 , SB1 , SB54 , SB82 , SB87 , SB92 , SB93 , SB99 , SB104 , SB113 , SB114 , SB115 , SB123 , SB129 , SB133 , SB161 , SB162 , SB224 , SB236 , SB275 , SB280 , SB289 , SB305 , SB310 , SB325 , SB330 , SB339 , SB350 , SB359 , SB382 , SB410 , SB412 , HCR10 , HB54 , HB55 , HB67 , HB73 , HB125 , HB133 , HB158 , HB168 , HB169 , HB191 , HB195 , HB205 , HB225 , HB245 , HB280 , HB283 , HB296 , HB319 , HB325 , HB339 , HB399 , HB407 , HB448 , HB482 , HB550 , HB591 , HB821 , HB826 , HB992 , HB995 , HB1085 , HB1086 , HR15 , HR20 , HCR14 , HCR6 , HCR19 , HB861 , HB889 , HB904 , HB907 , HB908 , HB929 , HB1009 , HB13 , HB23 , HB25 , HB32 , HB41 , HB90 , HB120 , HB121 , HB122 , HB127 , HB138 , HB139 , HB141 , HB179 , HB187 , HB213 , HB247 , HB286 , HB332 , HB344 , HB357 , HB367 , HB370 , HB462 , HB505 , HB527 , HB537 , HB605 , HB680 , HB681 , HB725 , HB780 , HB782 , HB847 , HB892 , HB911 , HB916 , HB1012 , HB81 , HB134 , HB154 , HB163 , HB170 , HB194 , HB217 , HB220 , HB254 , HB259 , HB290 , HB308 , HB311 , HB360 , HB382 , HB401 , HB410 , HB417 , HB463 , HB575 , HB592 , HB718 , HB723 , HB750 , HB755 , HB776 , HB812 , HB844 , HB882 , HB888 , HB961 , HB966 , HB980 , HB228 , HB289 , HB735 , HB796 , HB284 , HB301 , HB722 , HB468 , HB546 , HB746 , HB842 , HB923 , HB46 , HB166 , HB349 , HB352 , HB436 , HB588 , HB140 , HB429 , HB827 , HB953 , HB901 , HB9 , HB52 , HB58 , HB193 , HB400 , HB570 , HB577 , HB582 , HB733 , HB747 , HB868 , HB952

Keywords: Tulane University, education, research, economic impact, healthcare, Louisiana, condolences, memorial, community service, faith, legacy, centenarian, tribute, honor, longevity, philanthropy, youth leadership, fundraising, nonprofits, physical therapy

Summary: The House convened with a quorum, opened with prayer and the pledge, and then spent much of the day on personal privileges and resolutions recognizing groups and individuals. Members honored Physical Therapy Day at the Capitol, Tulane Day at the Capitol, and Landscape Architecture Month/Day, and also recognized the Liftoff Louisiana team for its work on an FAA advanced air mobility pilot program. The chamber also observed a moment of silence for former Representative Gene Durgey and adopted several condolence resolutions. The House then took up a long series of introductions and committee reports on bills, with many measures referred to committees and several resolutions adopted without objection. Among the more notable floor actions, the House adopted resolutions for Tulane University, physical therapy, landscape architecture, and the Liftoff Louisiana team, while other resolutions expressing condolences or commending individuals were either adopted or laid over. The chamber also received a large number of House and Senate bills on second reading for referral, covering topics such as education, health care, insurance, transportation, criminal justice, natural resources, taxation, and government administration. During floor consideration of bills, the House passed a number of measures, including a government clean-up bill removing inactive boards and commissions, an oyster tagging measure for alternative cultivation, a naloxone immunity bill, and a Secretary of State fee bill that drew some opposition but passed. Other bills approved included legislation on auto glass insurance practices, reckless driving at speeds over 100 mph, retirement system changes and cost-of-living adjustments, and several local crime prevention or improvement district measures. Some bills were amended or temporarily returned to the calendar for correction, including a firefighter retirement board governance bill, while most final passages were accompanied by motions to table reconsideration and, in some cases, requests for co-authors.

Transcript Highlights:

• I'm presenting to you the Proxy Advisor Transparency Act.
• Violations would be a violation of our state unfair deceptive acts and practices.
• The Attorney General could check into any... ...state unfair deceptive acts and practices.
• This is a model that's going from the Uniform Accountancy Act, and 25 other states have adopted it.
• Members, House Bill 2035 defines transportation protection agreement in the Funeral Services Licensing Act

Bills: HB4248 , HB4429 , HB2588 , HB3472 , HB4317 , HB3462 , HB2035 , HB3501 , HB3127 , HB3143 , HB3144 , HB3260 , HB4321 , HB3011 , HB3522 , HB3530

Committee: Senate Business and Insurance

Keywords: HB4248, hemp beverage, hemp drinks, THC beverage, cannabis beverage, intoxicating hemp, age restriction, under 21, minor possession, youth access, public health and safety, Title 63, Oklahoma Statutes, retail sales, alcohol-style regulation, controlled substances, beverage regulation, proxy advisory services, shareholder rights, financial transparency

Summary: The Business and Insurance Committee met with a quorum and laid over Item 8. Members first took up House Bill 4248, which was amended to prohibit anyone under 21 from buying, selling, delivering, furnishing, or possessing beverages containing hemp. Pro Tem Paxton explained the bill as a response to THC-infused hemp drinks being sold in convenience stores, and the committee passed the bill 9-0. The committee then approved a nomination for Stephen Brickle of Moore to the Alarm, Locksmith, and Fire Sprinkler Industry Committee for a four-year term ending June 30, 2030, also by a 9-0 vote. Members next passed House Bill 4429, the Proxy Advisor Transparency Act, which requires proxy advisors to disclose when recommendations are not based on a written financial analysis and allows enforcement through the Attorney General and civil actions; it passed 9-0 after questions about ESG-related considerations. Several other bills were considered and advanced, including House Bill 2588 on HOA board eligibility for resident owners, House Bill 3472 on tire pyrolysis facilities, House Bill 4317 on CPA exam eligibility, House Bill 3462 on plumbing licensing, House Bill 2035 on funeral transportation agreements, House Bill 3501 on multiple alcohol manufacturing licenses on one premises, House Bill 3127 and House Bill 3143 on medical marijuana regulation, House Bill 3144 on limiting grower licenses, House Bill 3260 on funeral director continuing education approval, House Bill 4321 on labor rules for existing structures, and House Bills 3011, 3522, and 3530 on home brewer licensing, ABLE Commission reporting, and purchase-record timing. Most measures passed on unanimous or near-unanimous votes, with a few receiving one no vote. The meeting adjourned after all listed items were heard.

Bills: SB1477 , SB1480 , SB1593 , SB1633 , SB1670 , SB1725 , SB1726 , SB1735 , SB1632

Committee: House Postsecondary Education

Keywords: education, concurrent enrollment, students, age restrictions, academic access, apprenticeship, career education, youth programs, employment, technology centers, SB1593, OSU Tulsa, Oklahoma State University/Tulsa, Board of Trustees, higher education, university governance, A&M Board, Oklahoma Agricultural and Mechanical Colleges, presidential search, board rules

Bills: SB1477 , SB1480 , SB1593 , SB1633 , SB1670 , SB1725 , SB1726 , SB1735 , SB1632

Committee: House Postsecondary Education

Keywords: education, concurrent enrollment, students, age restrictions, academic access, apprenticeship, career education, youth programs, employment, technology centers, SB1593, OSU Tulsa, Oklahoma State University/Tulsa, Board of Trustees, higher education, university governance, A&M Board, Oklahoma Agricultural and Mechanical Colleges, presidential search, board rules

Summary: The Postsecondary Education Committee considered a series of higher education and career-tech bills, with members asking mostly clarifying questions about eligibility, implementation, and alignment with existing law. House Bill 1477, requested by the State Regents, would limit concurrent enrollment to students age 21 or under; it passed 6-0. Senate Bill 1593 updated language on the Oklahoma State University Board of Trustees to reflect current practice and passed 6-0. Senate Bill 1725 addressed expressive activities on public campuses by allowing security fees for students or student groups, but not based on the content of expression, and also directed free speech training through the Oklahoma Free Speech Committee; it passed 7-2. Senate Bill 1670, a State Chamber priority bill, aimed to strengthen startup ecosystems, venture capital, and industry-embedded research to help move university research into private-sector jobs, and it passed 9-0. The committee also advanced Senate Bill 1726, which would establish a baseline training course for graduate student instructors at colleges and universities. Supporters said it would standardize instruction across institutions and help ensure a consistent level of preparation for graduate instructors teaching undergraduates; it passed 7-2. Senate Bill 1633 would align Oklahoma statute with federal law following a consent judgment regarding tuition eligibility for individuals not lawfully present in the United States; members discussed how “lawfully present” would apply to DACA recipients and others with federal immigration status, and the bill passed 6-3. Senate Bill 1735, a cleanup measure shifting certain oversight of technology center career tech schools more directly under the State Board of Career and Technology Education, passed 9-0. Later, the committee approved Senate Bill 1480, a pilot program for paid apprenticeships for 16-year-old students within career tech settings, despite questions about why a pilot was needed when career techs were already prepared to do similar work; it passed 9-0. Finally, an amendment to Senate Bill 1632 changed “shall” to “may” and allowed the State Board of Regents to use workforce assessments such as WorkKeys to award some entry-level college credit for students who score highly, especially those returning to community college or seeking an associate degree; after discussion about the limits of the credit, the amended measure passed 9-0. The meeting concluded with thanks to members as the committee’s final meeting.

Transcript Highlights:

• steps or proposed legislation for an immediate pathway to ensure school psychologists that can be acted
• that can be acted upon in 2027. 2027. 2027. and<01:03:15.440><c> the</c><01:03:16.880><c> first</c><
• Correct. >> Especially here in Hawaii. >> Of course. >> So, again, it’s like what factors make not act
• So, I can check on when it was brought up and why it was not acted on earlier. anything since the time
• </c><02:08:56.320><c> on</c> brought up and why it was not acted on brought up and why it was not acted

Bills: SB2024 , SB896 , SB2613 , SB494 , SB2391 , SB2125 , SB2614 , SB2615 , SB3262 , SB3325 , SB3118

Committee: Senate Education

Keywords: charter schools, public-private partnership, school facilities, education funding, community need, education, capital improvement, reporting, transparency, technical expertise, public school land transfer, Department of Education, DOE, land conveyance, fee simple title, tax map key, TMK, Act 307, Session Laws of Hawaii 2022, Act 139

Transcript Highlights:

• And if the state is overseeing the standardized testing, then we functionally have private schools acting

Bills: SB683 , SB1579 , SB1389 , SB1387 , SB1390 , SB1391 , SB2063 , SB1829 , SB2060 , SB1842 , SB1398 , SB1212 , SB2158 , SB102

Committee: Senate Revenue and Taxation

Keywords: education, tax credit, student support, private school, Oklahoma Parental Choice Tax Credit, financial assistance, homeschooling, qualified expenses, property tax, valuation increase, taxpayer rights, homestead, protest process, school choice, tuition assistance, income limits, parental choice, accreditation, sales tax, motor vehicles

Summary: The Revenue and Taxation Committee considered a long series of bills, many dealing with tax credits, property taxes, and tax administration. Early action included Senate Bill 1579, which creates a taxpayer bill of rights for ad valorem tax assessments by sending taxpayers a plain-language notice of existing rights; it passed 12-0. Senate Bill 683, as amended, expanded the parental choice tax credit to cover certain supplemental educational services for private-school students, including tutoring and summer learning programs, but drew concerns about broad language and unequal treatment of public-school students; it passed 8-3 with one member not voting. Senate Bill 1389 proposed a $25 million increase in the parental choice tax credit cap; supporters said the program is nearing its limit and should grow gradually, while opponents cited lack of outcomes data and benefits flowing disproportionately to higher-income families and metro counties. It passed 10-2. The committee also advanced several tax and property-related measures. Senate Bill 1387 would allow a sales tax refund when a vehicle is sold within six months of a purchase, even without a trade-in, and passed 10-2. Senate Bill 1390 extended and removed a cap on funding for the Oklahoma Water Resources Board and related agencies, passing unanimously. Senate Bill 2063 would require the State Treasurer to publish more information about unclaimed property online; the Treasurer’s office opposed it over privacy and burden concerns, but the bill passed 7-3. Senate Bill 1829 reduced the motor vehicle excise tax on manufactured homes to align more closely with the tax burden on traditional homes, and passed 8-2. Senate Bill 1842 would let county treasurers offer a 12-month installment prepayment plan for ad valorem taxes; it passed 9-1. Several other bills were debated on policy and accountability grounds. Senate Bill 1391 would require private schools participating in the parental choice tax credit to administer state tests and report results; supporters framed it as accountability for public tax dollars, while opponents argued it would undermine private-school autonomy and school-choice goals. It failed 5-7. Senate Bill 1398 created a capped tax credit for donations to certain nonprofits serving foster care, pregnancy resource centers, therapeutic care, and anti-trafficking efforts; members asked for clearer outcome measures, but it passed 8-2. Senate Bill 1212, addressing selective property appraisals in some counties, passed 9-1. Senate Bill 2158 would extend favorable tax treatment to health care sharing ministry contributions, and passed 8-2. Senate Bill 102 clarified when remote workers and certain short-term workers owe Oklahoma income tax, with discussion focused on athletes, entertainers, public figures, and contract workers; it passed 10-0. Finally, Senate Bill 2060, a governor-requested housing infrastructure bill creating master development districts, was still being refined but passed 6-4 to keep it moving forward.

Transcript Highlights:

• This is the Administrative Report Consolidation Act.
• that passed unanimously out of this committee last year, the Oklahoma Math Achievement and Proficiency Act
• Those are the strong Readers' Act money is state dollars that we put into a separate formulary based
• Those are the strong Readers' Act money is state dollars that we put into a separate formulary based

Bills: SB1726 , SB1236 , SB1633 , SB1413 , SB1317 , SB1360 , SB1342 , SB1477 , SB1189 , SB1546 , SB1524 , SB1338 , SB1193 , SB1812 , SB1617

Committee: Senate Education

Keywords: higher education, graduate instructors, training program, academic integrity, First Amendment rights, administrative reporting, education, consolidation, board, public schools, resident tuition, Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education, state scholarships, financial aid, immigration status, undocumented students, noncitizen students, lawfully present, postsecondary education benefits, college tuition

Transcript Highlights:

• This is the Administrative Report Consolidation Act.
• This is the Administrative Report Consolidation Act.
• that passed unanimously out of this committee last year, the Oklahoma Math Achievement and Proficiency Act
• The Strong Readers Act money is state dollars that we put into a separate formulary based on a percentage
• The Strong Readers Act money is state dollars that we put into a separate formulary based on a percentage

Bills: SB1726 , SB1236 , SB1633 , SB1413 , SB1317 , SB1360 , SB1342 , SB1477 , SB1189 , SB1546 , SB1524 , SB1338 , SB1193 , SB1812 , SB1617

Committee: Senate Education

Keywords: higher education, graduate instructors, training program, academic integrity, First Amendment rights, administrative reporting, education, consolidation, board, public schools, resident tuition, Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education, state scholarships, financial aid, immigration status, undocumented students, noncitizen students, lawfully present, postsecondary education benefits, college tuition

Summary: The Senate Education Committee heard and advanced a large slate of education bills. Early measures included SB 1726, requiring formal training for university teaching assistants before they teach classes and evaluate students, with emphasis on First Amendment rights; SB 1236, creating an Administrative Report Consolidation Act to reduce duplicative reporting by schools and agencies; SB 1633, codifying existing higher education residency tuition practices; SB 1413, requiring notice to parents when a teacher is emergency certified and limiting adjunct teachers to 270 clock hours per semester; SB 1317, allowing career teacher status to be portable across districts with local board approval; and SB 1360, expanding the state’s math initiative by restoring instructional coaches and creating a math office at the State Department of Education. Most of these bills passed on favorable votes, with SB 1413 drawing some concern over teacher shortages and the adjunct-hour cap, but still passing.

Transcript Highlights:

• Act HB5571 is about protecting our investment in Texas children. It's about accountability.
• For example, the Houston Chronicle reported on whistleblower allegations about the questionable use of
• We use many quality tools to evaluate our work, from our Plan-Do-Study-Act, our Plus Deltas, but also
• That's exactly what we use, and we use 10% on graduation rates, 10% on ACTs, 10% on SATs, and 10% on
• But we've identified a couple of districts in our area and a couple of districts in the Houston area

Bills: HB1540 , HB3837 , HB5571 , SB370 , SB2425

Committee: House Delivery of Government Efficiency

Keywords: government review, Texas Sunset Act, regulatory oversight, agencies, sunset provisions, autonomous vehicles, regulation, safety, criminal offense, Autonomous Vehicle Commission, registration, regulations, Level 4 automation, Level 5 automation, self-driving technology, traffic laws, permit system, collision reporting, safety standards, Automated Vehicle Commission

Transcript Highlights:

• They knew that they were supposed to do it and that they were years behind, but they wanted to act like
• the committee meetings and how embarrassing it is how some of our boards and even agencies at times act
• before you for your consideration is a cost-saving measure dealing with the Fair Campaigns Campaign Act

Bills: SB324 , HB395 , HB222 , HB310 , HB285 , HB144 , HB251 , HB380

Committee: Senate Judiciary

Keywords: parole, pardons, paroles board, board of pardons and paroles, Alabama criminal justice, sentencing reform, prison reform, reentry, recidivism, risk assessment, validated risk and needs assessment, supervision, probation, parole denial, parole reconsideration, medical parole, violent offense, nonviolent offense, law enforcement member, board appointments

Bills: HB195 , HB247 , HB255 , HJR2 , HJR4 , HJR6 , HJR31 , HJR34 , HB195 , HB247 , HB255 , HJR6 , HJR31 , HJR34

Committee: House Ways & Means

Keywords: school district, ad valorem tax, local revenue, tax collection, education funding, border security, tax exemption, ad valorem, real property, infrastructure, Texas-Mexico border, ad valorem taxation, farm products, livestock, timber, death tax, inheritance tax, estate tax, property transfer, constitutional amendment