Video & Transcript Research : 'bill drafting'
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KY
Kentucky 2025 Regular Session
Administrative Regulation Review Subcommittee (12-8-25)
Transcript Highlights:
- Also, I will say that under section four of the bill, the unlicensed sale is—I'm sorry—under the bill
- Also, I will say that under section four of the bill, the unlicensed sale is—I'm sorry—under the bill
- c> would not not an insubstantial bill, I would not not an insubstantial bill, I would say,<00:44
- 00:44:58.800>
prepared, these regulations drafted, prepared, these regulations drafted, prepared - Program for consistency with Senate Bill Program for consistency with Senate Bill 265<01:01:14.799
Summary:
The committee first approved the minutes and then recognized a staff member’s birthday and a guest shadowing Senator Adams. It then moved into informational review of Education and Labor Cabinet, Department of Education regulation 702 KAR 3:30, which sets insurance coverage requirements for school district buildings and structures. Department of Education officials explained that districts are expected to carry coverage at replacement cost and said they understand some districts participate in self-insurance pools with backup policies, but they deferred detailed insurance questions to the Department of Insurance. Senators raised concerns that pooled coverage could leave districts exposed if claims exceed pool limits, and the chair asked KDE to follow up with DOI to confirm districts are adequately covered, especially for bondholders. No vote was taken on the informational review.
The committee then reviewed emergency ABC regulations 804 KAR 130:01 through 130:04 implementing Senate Bill 100’s new licensing requirements for tobacco, nicotine, and vapor product businesses. ABC and Public Protection Cabinet representatives outlined the emergency rules governing enforcement, license applications, denial criteria, and transitional licenses. Retail industry witnesses Shannon Stiglet and Brian Clark said they support licensure in principle but argued the rules add duplicative requirements borrowed from alcohol licensing, create confusion about transitional licenses, and may be too burdensome for the roughly 7,000 affected businesses to meet by the January 1 deadline. They also said guidance has been inconsistent and requested the agency revise the regulations, remove requirements not grounded in law, and provide clearer, separate processes for new and existing businesses.
Committee members asked whether the industry had worked directly with ABC and noted the public comment period was still open. Witnesses said they had communicated with ABC and the Public Protection Cabinet, but responses had been uneven and they wanted written guidance. Members expressed concern about the short timeline and the need to avoid disruption so businesses can operate legally on January 1. Representative Marzian asked for clarification that the discussion concerned emergency regulations already in effect while ordinary regulations remain in process. No formal action was taken beyond receiving the informational testimony and discussion.
HI
Transcript Highlights:
- the bill. the bill.
- to testify on this bill?
- <00:38:27.520>
Bill <00:38:28.000>1575 Next bill is um House Bill 1575 Next bill is - The final bill on the agenda is House Bill 1898 regarding immunization.
- Um, next bill, HP 255. I'd like to move this forward as a House draft.
Keywords:
accessible parking, disability, kupuna, public accommodations, small business exemptions, Hawaii Revised Statutes, parking permit, blind, deaf, accessibility, deafness, traffic safety, law enforcement, vehicle registration, communication, emergency services, commercial driver's license, first responders, public safety, authorized emergency vehicle
Summary:
The committee heard testimony on several health-related bills. HB 1871, establishing a maternal health monitoring pilot program, drew support from the Department of Health, the Hawaii State Commission on Status of Women, and the Hawaii affiliate of the American College of Nurse Midwives, with testimony urging provider-neutral language so midwives and other qualified providers would not be excluded. HB 1977, requiring a maternal and infant health information mobile app, received support from ACNM and Philips, which said similar apps in other states improved awareness of services and helped families navigate care; a member asked the Department of Health about implementation time. HB 1858, relating to certificates of fetal deaths, was supported by the Department of Health and clinicians, who said the current statute is outdated and inconsistent with CDC guidance; the department and a physician testified that the bill should shift documentation responsibilities to physicians and APRNs, and members discussed optional versus mandatory issuance language and whether the bill would improve data on home births and transfers.
The committee also heard HB 1591, expanding definitions for preceptor and volunteer-based clinical training to improve income tax credits. The Department of Health supported the measure but preferred a similar, broader bill; Taxation suggested clarifying terms; the University of Hawaii and the State Center for Nursing supported it. ACNM asked that midwifery preceptors and Hawaii-based students enrolled in mainland programs be included, while the Hawaii Public Health Institute supported expansion of the program as a workforce solution. HB 1574, on the health care education loan repayment program, also drew broad support, including from the governor, SHPDA, OHA, and health organizations, but ACNM raised concerns that the bill’s 30% Medicaid-client threshold could exclude many providers and limit participation.
For HB 1575, creating a feasibility committee on Parkinson’s patient air transport, the Department of Health supported the intent but said transportation is more likely an insurance or benefit issue and suggested redirecting funds to Parkinson’s research; the Michael J. Fox Foundation and the Hawaii Parkinson Association supported the bill, citing inter-island travel barriers and high costs for patients and caregivers. HB 1854, establishing certification of community behavioral health clinics, was supported by the Department of Health and DHS, which said certification would help clinics qualify for enhanced Medicaid reimbursement and expand access; the Attorney General’s office raised a legal concern about the special fund language and recommended a purpose section, and the committee discussed whether the fund would be self-sustaining and noted a possible amendment to change membership language and reduce the board size if the amendment moved forward.
NH
New Hampshire 2025 Regular Session
Senate Executive Departments and Administration (02/12/2025)
Executive Departments and Administration
Transcript Highlights:
- So, for the benefit of the committee, Senate Bill 185... Senate Bill 185.
- All right, next will be Senate Bill 74. Senate Bill 74.
- All right, discussion on the bill as amended? Discussion on the bill as amended?
- Discussion on the bill.
- Discussion on the bill.
HI
Transcript Highlights:
- Vice Chair, for the vote on House Bill 1294, House Draft 2, passing with amendments.
- <00:52:30.000>
how if this bill if this bill passes how if this bill if this bill passes how - Chair votes aye on House Bill 1450, House Draft 2, passing with amendments. Vice Chair votes aye.
- Chair votes aye on House Bill 1450, House Draft 2, passing with amendments. Vice Chair votes aye.
- votes I on House Bill 1450 house draft<01:09:24.359>
2 <01:09:25.480>passing <01:09:25.839
Summary:
The committee heard testimony on HB 1294 HD2, which would create a workforce housing working group within the Department of Agriculture to address agricultural workforce housing shortages. The Department of Agriculture supported the bill’s intent but emphasized that the first step should be a study to determine actual housing demand, noting many farmers have very low incomes and may not be able to support housing costs. A DHHL representative said the department supports the measure as a first step but does not currently plan to expand housing on its agricultural lands; members also discussed the distinction between agricultural and pastoral leases and asked for follow-up information on lease numbers and ranchers growing feed.
Testimony on HB 1294 was overwhelmingly supportive, with farm and farmers’ organizations saying housing is critical to sustaining agriculture and should be located near farm operations when possible. Members questioned how housing eligibility would be enforced and whether federal housing funds could be used. The committee reported 38 testimonies in support, none opposed, and two comments, then voted to pass HB 1294 HD2 with amendments, including a date defect to July 1, 2050; the motion carried with five in favor and the recommendations were adopted.
The committee then took up HB 428 HD1, establishing the Hawaii Farm to Families Program to address food shortages and requiring reports before the 2026 regular session. The Department of Agriculture urged the bill’s continuation and appropriations, citing rescinded federal grant programs and a planned $1.1 million application to support food banks and kalo production. Food banks, the Hawaii Farm Bureau, the Hawaii Farmers Union, and other groups strongly supported the measure, describing rising demand for charitable food assistance, especially for fresh produce and protein, and noting that many families are struggling despite working multiple jobs. Witnesses also described school pantry and backpack programs, food rescue partnerships with retailers, and the need for more stable state support; one witness asked for at least $5 million in funding for farm families.
Committee members asked about food insecurity levels, food safety, abuse of food assistance, and how the program would connect farmers with schools and food banks. Food bank representatives said they already work with DOE school pantry programs and inspect all donated food for safety, and they suggested a grant or escrow-style payment model could help farmers by reducing reimbursement delays. The transcript does not show a final vote on HB 428 before the excerpt ends.
HI
Hawaii 2025 Regular Session
EIG-GVO, EIG, EIG DEFER Public Hearings 03-18-2025
Energy and Intergovernmental Affairs
Transcript Highlights:
- Senator Richards, if you could please take their vote for the Committee on House Bill 344 House Draft
- Senator Richards, if you could please take their vote for the Committee on House Bill 344 House Draft
- House Bill 344 House Draft 1. Vice Chair, I vote yes. Senator Morali is excused.
- House Bill 344 House Draft 1. Vice Chair, I vote yes. Senator Morali is excused.
- 1<00:08:12.560>
passing on House Bill 344 House draft 1 passing on House Bill 344 House draft
Summary:
The joint committees heard House Bill 344 HD1, which would require new buildings to include electric vehicle charger-ready parking stalls. Testimony was overwhelmingly in support from the State Energy Office, Department of Accounting and General Services, the Disabilities and Communication Access Board, and others. Members asked about cost and infrastructure impacts; the State Energy Office said the added cost would likely be modest if planned from the start, but that electrical capacity remains a key challenge for expanding EV charging. The chairs proposed two amendments: extending the bill to cover on-grade parking lots and adding language for Level 1 or Level 3 charging when appropriate.
After discussion, both committees voted to pass HB 344 HD1 with amendments. In the Energy and Intergovernmental Affairs committee, the chair voted aye, one member voted with reservation, and excused members were noted; the Government Operations committee also passed the measure, with one aye vote and one vote with reservations.
The committees also heard House Bill 10001 HD1 SD1, relating to the Maui wildfire settlement trust fund. The Governor’s Office, Attorney General’s Office, Maui County, and the Tax Foundation testified in support. Members questioned Hawaii Electric Industries’ ability to fund its share of the settlement and whether the state should pay first or in tranches. The chair proposed amendments requiring all defendant parties to submit payment plans and proof of ability to pay, and requiring non-state defendants to fund their shares into escrow before the state releases its share. The committee adopted the amendments and passed the bill unanimously by the members present.
Later, the committee deferred action on House Bill 229 HD1 until March 20 for clarification on amendments, then passed House Bill 860 HD1 with amendments addressing liability for limited resurfacing of disputed roads, and passed House Bill 1161 HD2 with amendments concerning highway fund use, formula calculations, and EV-related county fees.
NH
New Hampshire 2025 Regular Session
Senate Executive Departments and Administration (03/26/2025)
Executive Departments and Administration
Transcript Highlights:
- Any further testimony on House<00:41:27.680>
Bill House Bill House Bill 144? - Discussion on the bill. Second. Discussion on the bill. Second.
- speak in support of this bill. speak in support of this bill.
- So that bill was it. that ain't it. So that bill was it.
- The bill as drafted does contemplate a change from retired to active or retired to inactive in Roman
NH
Transcript Highlights:
- In our reading, Senate Bill 90 as currently drafted and introduced would mandate 20 units per acre in
- So, in our reading, Senate Bill 90 as currently drafted and introduced would mandate 20 units per acre
- to Senate Bill 174 as currently<00:58:08.880>
drafted <00:58:09.880>um <00:58:10.000>- drafted um the intent of Senate<00:58:10.760>
Bill <00:58:10.960>174 <00:58:11.640>- The New Hampshire Municipal Association is opposed to Senate Bill 163 as currently drafted.
- drafted um the intent of Senate<00:58:10.760>
NH
Transcript Highlights:
- Um, House Bill<00:14:49.519>
1040. Bill 1040. Bill 1040. - , coming to this compromise, which took care of many issues in the original bill as it was drafted.
- , coming to this compromise, which took care of many issues in the original bill as it was drafted.
- I'm supporting this bill, and I had a little bit of a hand in an initial draft of the amendment.
- Bill 1499. Bill 1499.
NH
New Hampshire 2026 Regular Session
House Commerce and Consumer Affairs (04/22/2026)
Commerce and Consumer Affairs
Transcript Highlights:
- So, I just think the way the bill is drafted is extremely problematic.
- So, we helped draft an initial amendment to this bill, taking some of the concepts that Senator Rochford
- And is that... draft an initial amendment to this bill draft an initial amendment to this bill taking
- bill them. bill them.
- . billing. billing.
NH
New Hampshire 2026 Regular Session
House State-Federal Relations and Veterans Affairs (04/10/2026)
State-Federal Relations and Veterans Affairs
Transcript Highlights:
- Because we don't have a draft anymore, not since 1973, and uh we will draft you, we'll draft somebody
- won't draft you, but uh we will draft won't draft you, but uh we will draft Representative<00:37
- > which companion bill, Senate Bill 490, which companion bill, Senate Bill 490, which was<00:52:19.520
- drafted for that purpose. drafted for that purpose.
- bill this Senate Bill a lot more to this bill this Senate Bill 492<02:55:32.520>
than <02:55:33.000
WA
Transcript Highlights:
- I was previously doing the bill drafting guide.
- Depending on, you know, if there's certain bills will have some...
- May be eligible for, you know, in the technical corrections bill.
- I see quite a number of bills that Senator Peterson was involved in and a number of bills that I was
- We'll be doing some agency bill drafting at that point in time, but we won't be into full budget action
Summary:
The Statute Law Committee meeting began with introductions of new staff, approval of the December 10 minutes, and election of Kyle Shiketty as vice chair by acclamation. The committee also approved a step increase for Code Reviser Kathy Buckley, with members praising her work and noting she had reached the top step.
Max Weeks reported on publications: session laws had been published online and physical copies were nearing completion, while RCWs were expected online by the end of the next month with print copies following about a month later. The committee discussed print runs, free distribution to libraries and courts, and rising shipping costs, with a plan to charge actual shipping rates rather than the prior flat fee. Kathy Buckley also reviewed the office’s financial condition, reporting healthy balances in the publications account and general fund and expecting a year-end return of about $600,000.
Alice reported on the annual multiple-amendment review process, explaining how the office merges nonconflicting amendments and flags possible items for a future technical corrections bill. The committee adopted the multiple amendments table and discussed plans to prepare a technical corrections bill for the fall and likely the 2027 session. The committee then heard a presentation from Kevin and Judge Anne Levinson on improving RCW disposition tables by adding hyperlinks to repealed session laws and chapter-level cross-reference notes to help readers trace recodified or replaced laws, especially in areas like protection orders and unclaimed property.
In other business, the committee discussed clarifying statutory references that sometimes use “Statute Law Committee” when “Office of the Code Reviser” is intended, and agreed to review the statutes for possible cleanup legislation. Members also received an update on the office’s upcoming move to a new building in September, with an open house planned for September 24. The meeting adjourned without setting the next meeting date.
NH
Transcript Highlights:
- finance, I don't have the bill with me. finance, I don't have the bill with me.
- <01:01:53.040>
two the past, you know, had him draft two the past, you know, had him draft - <01:24:57.760>
All item from House Bill Two. Second. All item from House Bill Two. - thank you for drafting it this way. thank you for drafting it this way.
- Item number five. moves to remove it from House Bill 2. moves to remove it from House Bill 2.
HI
Transcript Highlights:
- states have already passed similar bills states have already passed similar bills to<00:04:14.720
- Voting on HTR 174, House draft 1, recommendation of the chairs to pass with amendments.
- Voting on HTR 174, House draft 1, Okay.
- HCR 146, House draft 1, recommendation of the chair to pass with amendments.
- > recommendation<00:21:02.240>
of 146, House draft 1, recommendation of 146, House draft 1
Summary:
The Health and Human Services committee heard testimony on several resolutions. HCR 190, asking the Department of Health to convene a demolition waste reduction work group, drew only written testimony; the Department of Health provided comments in opposition and the Department of Attorney General Services supported it. HCR 91, on requiring insurers and managed care providers to cover prosthetic and orthotic devices, received supportive testimony from SHIPA and an amputee youth advocate who described the high cost and importance of sports prosthetics. HCR 174, on examining the availability and use of land-based learning programs for youth in the juvenile legal system, drew support from the Office of the Public Defender, youth advocates, and a youth council that described land-based learning as culturally rooted and rehabilitative. HR 171, on assessing the social and financial effects of mandatory coverage for continuous glucose monitors, received support from SHIPA, the Hawaiʻi Medical Association, and kidney care and dialysis groups. HCR 146, on the Elderly Simplified Application Project for SNAP, drew support from disability, hunger, and public health groups, with DHS explaining it could implement the project but would need to do manual certification work until its new system is ready.
During decision-making, the committee deferred HCR 190 because the Department of Health said it could not carry out the work group without an appropriation. The committee voted to pass HCR 91 as is. HCR 174 was recommended for passage with amendments to clarify that the resolution would request continued use of land-based learning programs and to reflect existing work already underway. HCR 171 was recommended for passage with amendments to correct a statute description. HCR 146 was recommended for passage with amendments to add language that DHS should apply for and implement the project when capable, acknowledging current system limitations. All recommendations were adopted, and the meeting adjourned.
HI
Transcript Highlights:
- I would also like to note the opposing testimony expressing concern that the bill as originally drafted
- <00:03:19.840>
as expressing concern that the bill as expressing concern that the bill as - :21.599>
a originally drafted could restrict a originally drafted could restrict a tourism<00: - <00:03:30.319>
to So, we'd like to amend the bill to So, we'd like to amend the bill to clarify - Chair votes aye, Vice Chair. >> On Senate Bill 2006, passing with amendments. Chair votes aye.
Keywords:
carbon sequestration, marine ecosystem, climate change, renewable energy, biodiversity, nature-based solutions, organic waste, solid waste, waste diversion, composting, bioconversion, recycling, food waste, green waste, food-soiled paper, wood waste, landfill diversion, waste reduction, waste management, county solid waste plan
Summary:
The committee heard SB 2006, which would clarify that a farm dwelling permit in an agricultural district may include a single-family farm dwelling with an accessory employee housing structure, subject to restrictions. Testimony was largely supportive, with comments from the Department of Agriculture Biosecurity, DPP, Hawaii Farm Bureau, Hawaii Realtors, Grassroot Institute of Hawaii, Hawaii Farmers Union, Housing Hawaii Future, and several individuals. The chair noted there were nine in support, two opposed, and four offering comments.
In decision-making, the chair recommended passing the bill with OPSD-suggested amendments to clarify the definitions of farm employee housing and bona fide agricultural services. The chair also referenced opposing testimony that raised concern the original draft could limit tourism activities that provide supplemental income for bona fide farming operations. The proposed amendments were intended to make clear that farm employee housing is only for workers and not visitor accommodations, while allowing tourism activities on the same parcel if they are secondary and incidental to a bona fide agricultural operation, do not occur in employee housing units, and comply with county ordinances.
The committee adopted the recommendation and voted to pass SB 2006 with amendments. The recorded votes showed the chair, vice chair, Senator Rhoads, and Senator Awa in favor, with Senator DeCoite excused. The same pass-with-amendments recommendation was then made to the housing committee and adopted there as well, with Senator Elephante voting aye and Senator Favella excused.
NH
New Hampshire 2026 Regular Session
Senate Energy and Natural Resources (02/17/2026)
Energy and Natural Resources
Transcript Highlights:
- Bill 475. Bill 475.
- bill as written. bill as written.
- we support Senate Bill 475. we support Senate Bill 475.
- And this confusion already over this bill just shows that it needs to be drafted more clearly.
- And this confusion already over this bill just shows that it needs to be drafted more clearly.
OK
Oklahoma 2026 Regular Session
Veteran and Military Affairs REVISED: Links added Feb 5th, 2026 at 10:30 am
Veteran and Military Affairs
Transcript Highlights:
- You want to use the PCS's working draft?
- This request bill from the ODBA, House Bill 3043, would allow them to hire seasonal employees in times
- We'll report your bill out of committee as a do pass.
- It's a long bill, it's an omnibus bill.
- That's the last of the bills we will Adjourn
Keywords:
veterans, disability benefits, federal law, Oklahoma Statutes, military service, veterans benefits, workplace poster, human resources, employment law, mental health resources, educational resources, HB3043, Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs, ODVA, seasonal employees, project labor, pro rata jobs, unclassified service, state personnel law, state employee benefits
LA
Transcript Highlights:
- We're going to hear House Bill 1056 first. If Mr. Wilson could read the bill in, we'll go there.
- The bill, we really liked the bill.
- I could tell you the drafting of this bill paid extra attention to make sure that this is about climate-change-related
- of the bill is.
- This bill is very narrowly drafted. Okay. All right. I appreciate you asking those questions.
Keywords:
fishing gear, Oyster Bayou, shrimping, regulation, marine resources, HB621, Act 658, renewable energy, recycling, decommissioning, wind energy, solar power, solar facilities, wind turbines, energy infrastructure, end-of-life disposal, universal waste, recyclable materials, waste reduction, Department of Environmental Quality
Summary:
The Senate Committee on Natural Resources met on May 14 and approved the April 29 minutes. The committee first heard HB 1056, which authorizes transfer of certain state property in Natchitoches Parish tied to a former school building now considered dilapidated and a nuisance; it was reported favorably. HB 841, described as a landman code of conduct bill and expropriation-related measure, was voluntarily deferred so the sponsor could work on additional changes over the interim.
The committee then took up HB 804, the Louisiana Energy Protection Act, which would bar future lawsuits seeking climate-change damages against fossil fuel companies and other entities. Supporters said it would prevent speculative climate litigation while preserving legitimate claims for permit violations and other existing statutory causes of action. Opponents from coastal litigation and the Sierra Club argued the bill was drafted too broadly and could affect legacy cases, property rights, and regulatory enforcement; the committee adopted Amendment 3875 to grandfather existing filed cases and make the bill effective upon gubernatorial signature, then reported the bill favorably as amended.
HB 621, requiring recycling of decommissioned renewable energy infrastructure and updating the state’s waste framework for modern energy components, was reported favorably. HB 637, which revises oil field site restoration fees and lowers rates for marginal, stripper, low-pressure, and incapable wells, was also reported favorably. Finally, SB 480, as amended, allowed boats to anchor in Oyster Bayou so long as they are not within an oyster lease and someone remains on board; the committee adopted the amendment and reported the bill favorably before adjourning.
HI
Transcript Highlights:
- Third reading of Senate Bill 1465, Senate Draft 1, relating to pass-through entity taxation.
- <00:02:59.599>
reading <00:03:00.000>of <00:03:00.080>Senate <00:03:00.360>Bill - consent third reading of Senate Bill consent third reading of Senate Bill 1465<00:03:01.640>
- Senate<00:03:01.959>
draft <00:03:02.280>1 <00:03:02.640>relating <00:03:02.959 - >
to <00:03:03.200>pass 1465 Senate draft 1 relating to pass 1465 Senate draft 1 relating
WA
Washington 2025-2026 Regular Session
Select Committee on Pension Policy Jul 15th, 2025
Select Committee on Pension Policy
Transcript Highlights:
- I mean, I think there's more than the two bills. ...as a legislature.
- I mean, I think there's more than the two bills contain.
- Okay, I did think, are the options larger than the two options of the two bills?
- All right, let's move on to the review of the draft interim work plan.
- I mean, the closure bill as well as the merger bill.
Summary:
The Select Committee on Pension Policy Executive Committee approved the June minutes and received a brief update from Assistant Attorney General Jesse Yoder, who had no litigation updates but offered to answer questions. Actuary Michael Harbour then previewed the September full committee meeting, which will include a report on the financial condition of the DRS-administered pension plans and the state actuary’s recommended economic assumptions. He also cautioned that any actuarial pricing done over the summer could change if assumptions are updated, and suggested taking votes on potential legislation later in the interim, possibly in November or December.
A discussion followed about the Left 1 benefit improvement and where the funding came from. Harbour said the benefit tied to SSB 5791 (2022) was paid from the Left 1 trust fund, while a separate Left 2 benefit improvement was in SHB 1701, and he agreed to double-check the issue with DRS after members raised conflicting information. Members then discussed the broader Left 1 study, including whether IRS approval is a key barrier and whether options are limited to merger or closure. Several members asked to hear from Ice Miller, which has been advising on the tax issues, and staff said the committee should receive a written response in the next couple of weeks and could have Ice Miller appear in October.
The committee reviewed and adjusted its interim work plan. September will include the actuarial presentations, a more detailed Left 1 study update, and a presentation on PERS and TERS Plan 1 COLAs, including a recap of the bill recommended this year and initial considerations for an ad hoc COLA. October is expected to include DRS administrative and performance updates, with November reserved for the State Investment Board update and a final Left 1 study update, and December may include an educational presentation on excess compensation. Members also requested a future briefing on the month-of-death benefit discussion. The September agenda was adopted, correspondence materials were noted, and the meeting adjourned.
ND
North Dakota 2025-2026 Regular Session
Government Finance Transportation Study Subcommittee Mar 19th, 2026
Transcript Highlights:
- The subcommittee could make any sort of recommendations or bring a request for a bill draft.
- And there would be opportunities to bring forward any bill drafts or proposals or recommendations at
- And if you'd rather have individual legislators take a crack at a bill draft, that's fine as well.
- And if you'd rather have individual legislators take a crack at a bill draft, that's fine as well.
- Representative Dressler: Take a crack at a bill draft. That's fine as well.
Summary:
The committee met as a study subcommittee on fixed-route public transportation and first approved the December 11 minutes. It then heard detailed presentations from transit leaders in Grand Forks, Bismarck/Mandan, and Fargo about their systems, including route structures, paratransit service, ridership trends, fare changes, funding sources, fleet replacement needs, and operational challenges. Grand Forks described Cities Area Transit’s 17 routes, university shuttle service, expanded paratransit coverage, a 2025 fare increase, and rising costs for labor, fuel, parts, and new buses. Bismarck/Mandan’s Bisman Transit outlined its fixed-route and paratransit operations, recent service expansions approved for April 1, fare structure, ridership recovery since COVID, and major funding streams including mill levies, federal grants, and new local sales tax revenue. Fargo’s MATBUS representative emphasized the importance of continued state support for urban fixed-route transit.
Members asked extensive questions about cost per ride, fare increases, school transportation, veteran service partnerships, app-based ticketing, local funding formulas, and whether ride-share or microtransit could replace fixed routes. Transit officials said fixed-route service remains essential because it provides reliable capacity, supports jobs and access to services, and preserves federal funding tied to public transit operations. They also said paratransit is costly but necessary for riders with disabilities, and that vehicle and maintenance costs have risen sharply. Minot’s transit superintendent added context on the state’s existing transit aid formula, explaining that it is weighted more toward rural and paratransit providers and that urban fixed-route systems are seeking a separate, dedicated funding source rather than changes to the current formula.
The committee also heard public testimony from North Dakota Protection & Advocacy supporting both fixed-route and paratransit service for disabled riders, and from Minot staff on refurbished buses, CDL driver recruitment, and why the agency is not pursuing full electric buses. Near the end, members discussed whether to recommend additional state funding for the four urban fixed-route systems. A motion passed to have Legislative Council prepare a summary of the subcommittee’s activities for inclusion in the Government Finance Committee’s report to Legislative Management. Members then continued discussing possible recommendations, including a separate funding source for urban fixed-route transit and whether the four urban systems should meet to develop a proposed amount.