Transcript Highlights:

• [We] got passed legislation to expand the state energy office.
• They are appropriation bonds. There's a difference there.
• for information and requests for proposals for energy procurement.
• Conduct studies and issue requests for information and requests for proposals for energy procurement.
• My only concern is the actual legislation does focus a lot on SMRs.

Keywords: 1064, all

Transcript Highlights:

• This was a request for the Medical Commission.
• Jessica Bateman, State Senator for the 22nd Legislative District.
• Without urgent legislative action, we face reduced services and potential clinic closures.
• Again, for the record, Adrian Cortez, State Senator for the 18th Legislative District.
• We did share requested language with him, and I'll briefly share with you what that is.

Summary: The Senate Health and Long-Term Care Committee held a public hearing on six bills, with the chair repeatedly emphasizing one-minute testimony limits because of the large number of sign-ins. The committee first heard SB 6292, which would create a joint legislative-executive committee on health care financing to study strategies for improving statewide access and coverage and report in 2027. Supporters, including the Health Care Authority, the Office of the Insurance Commissioner, community health centers, carriers, and provider groups, said the bill could help the state respond to affordability and system sustainability challenges and coordinate policy work across branches of government. The committee then heard SB 6258, which would create a non-disciplinary pathway for voluntarily relinquishing certain Washington Medical Commission licenses. The sponsor and supporters said the bill would provide a humane exit option for physicians and other licensees who are medically disabled or otherwise leaving practice, without forcing them into a disciplinary process. Testimony was overwhelmingly supportive, and the hearing closed with 17 people signed in pro and 2 con. The committee also heard SB 6182, establishing an abortion savings program funded by a new assessment on health carriers. Supporters argued it would recapture funds originally set aside for abortion care under the ACA and protect access amid federal changes, while opponents raised concerns about hidden taxes, lack of opt-out, and the impact on premiums and conscience rights. The hearing drew very large public interest, with 245 signed in pro and 1,775 con. The committee next took testimony on SB 5947, which would establish the Washington Health Care Board and prepare a state universal health care plan contingent on federal authorization and funding. Supporters from labor, health care, tribal, and universal coverage advocacy groups said the bill would position Washington to act quickly if federal waivers become available and argued that health care should be treated as a human right; opponents warned about costs, vagueness, and government overreach. The hearing then moved to SJR 8206, a proposed constitutional amendment declaring access to affordable health care a fundamental right. Supporters framed it as an aspirational commitment and a necessary step toward universal coverage, while opponents argued the language was vague, legally risky, and could create costly obligations. Finally, the committee heard SB 5823, which would require hospitals to employ or provide access to patient advocates to help patients navigate bills, records, and appointments. Hospital and patient coalition witnesses supported the goal but asked for amendments to clarify staffing, exemptions, and scope; the hearing closed with 20 signed in pro, 792 con, and 3 other. No votes were taken on the bills during the hearing.

Transcript Highlights:

• One of the biggest changes that it requests is public reporting on average interest rates, which I think
• I just want to voice in support of this legislation.
• C file number 1459 is the Black Women's Wealth Alliance appropriation.
• </c> by the fact that it is an appropriation by the fact that it is an appropriation to<01:20:01.080>
• Madam Chair, Senate File 1673 is an appropriation for West Broadway Business and Area Coalition.

Committee: Senate Jobs and Economic Development

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• </c><00:05:10.600><c> session,</c> one right after the legislative session, one right after the legislative
• </c> legislative session. legislative session.
• </c> It's very rare that a legislative It's very rare that a legislative committee<00:22:29.080><c> is
• </c><01:44:40.840><c> You</c> appropriate it out of the SIPA?" You appropriate it out of the SIPA?"
• </c> come in for requests for loans on other. come in for requests for loans on other.

Committee: Joint Transportation, Highways & Military Affairs

Keywords: 916, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Last year, we passed a piece of legislation where the Department of Revenue would go out and check to
• So, if they don't send back the funds or don't respond with the appropriate reports, they can withhold
• </c><00:04:34.240><c> reports,</c> respond with the appropriate reports, respond with the appropriate
• /c> in the appropriation subcommittee in the appropriation subcommittee hearings<00:12:28.639><c> this
• </c><00:24:54.240><c> that</c> assumes but for this legislation that assumes but for this legislation

Committee: Joint Finance

Keywords: Finance - Room 216, 2 February, 2026; 3:00 PM, 925, all

Transcript Highlights:

• legislation authorizes KCTCS This legislation authorizes KCTCS in<00:02:40.239><c> to</c> in to in to
• There's no appropriation requests in this bill.
• I just sponsoring this legislation.
• Appropriations remain stagnant or decrease.
• Appropriations remain stagnant the rise.

Committee: House Judiciary

Keywords: 958, all

Transcript Highlights:

• I serve as the legislative affairs senator at the University of St.
• Thomas, as well as the co-legislative senator with the Minnesota Association of Private Colleges.
• </c><00:42:47.839><c> emergency</c> that we receive is requesting emergency that we receive is requesting
• I'm very supportive and look forward to working with you all to keep pushing that legislation.
• Therefore, we were surprised that over half of the last biennium's appropriation went unused.

Committee: Senate Higher Education

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• DURING THE SPECIAL SESSION WE HAD, SPECIAL SESSION C LAST YEAR, THE LEGISLATION PASSED SENATE BILL 2
• UNANIMOUS VOTE IS REQUIRED BY THE BOARD FOR ALL ACTIONS AND TOTAL APPROPRIATIONS FOR THE GRANT WAS $250
• OCTOBER 2025, ACTUALLY TODAY IS THE ROLL OUT DATE, THE CHAIR AND VICE CHAIR OF THE LEGISLATIVE BUDGET
• ANYTHING UNDER THE CATEGORY MUST BE APPROVED REGARDLESS OF THE AMOUNT REQUESTED.
• I CAN HAVE THE LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS GET YOU THAT LIST. >> Chair Maney: YOU ARE RECOGNIZED FOR ANOTHER

Transcript Highlights:

• A MATRIX UPDATE OR REQUESTING SERVICES OR WHO MAY BE CATEGORIZED AS A HOME UPDATE OR REQUESTING SERVICES
• SORRY ABOUT THAT. >> REIMBURSEMENT REQUEST, AFTER WHICH THEY WILL REQUEST THE LOGIN PAGE.
• TO GET STARTED WITH A NEW REQUEST THEY WILL CLICK CREATE NEW REIMBURSEMENT REQUEST AFTER WHICH THEY WILL
• SELECT THE APPROPRIATE REIMBURSEMENT CATEGORY.
• POINT TO SUBMIT THE REQUEST.

Transcript Highlights:

• There's a process in place to request less screen time by a parent.
• Is there a different piece of legislation?
• First of all, I appreciate this legislation. I have more. Up to a little bit.
• First of all, I appreciate this legislation.
• So, you know, as always, my door is always open when it comes to legislation.

Committee: House Elementary and Secondary Education

Summary: The committee heard testimony on House Bill 3239, which would make the Missouri Workforce Diploma Program permanent and move it into the MoCAP framework. Representative Hurlbert and supporters said the program has helped about 1,200 adults earn diplomas, mostly women with children, and that it improves employment and health coverage outcomes. Members raised concerns about funding, the use of the foundation formula, and how the program differs from existing adult education options. Supporters said it is tuition-free, pay-for-performance, and intended for adults with a short path to graduation; no vote was taken on the bill. The committee then took up House Bills 2335 and 2230/2978 in executive session. HB 2335, dealing with teacher training, was amended and then given a do pass recommendation by a 19-0 vote. HB 2230 and 2978, as amended, were also approved do pass by an 18-1 vote after extensive discussion of the Student Screen Time Standards Act, including limits on screen time, a new advisory council, and a related cursive-writing amendment. Members generally supported the direction of the substitute, while some raised questions about local control, implementation, and the role of experts. Later, Representatives Irwin and Steinhoff presented House Bills 2913 and 3228, which would provide legal protection for teachers who intervene in violent situations to protect students or themselves. Supporters said the bills would reduce fear of liability and encourage reasonable intervention, while committee members and witnesses discussed possible limits, training, whether the protection should extend to other school staff, and how the proposal interacts with existing discipline and restraint rules. Public testimony was largely supportive, with school and teacher groups asking for clearer definitions and coordination with federal law; no vote was taken. The committee also heard House Bill 2304, which would require parental consent before major changes to a child’s special education placement or services. The sponsor and advocates said it strengthens parent involvement and collaboration, while members questioned delays, due process, safety exceptions, and the effect on school operations. Testimony from advocates and parents supported the bill, and the hearing concluded without action.

Transcript Highlights:

• >> GOOD AFTERNOON THE APPROPRIATIONS COMMITTEE OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES WILL COME TO ORDER.
• WE HAVE ANOTHER MOTION TO ACCEPT THE APPROPRIATION COMMITTEE ON HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES FISCAL 25/26
• BUDGET PROPOSAL IS RECOMMENDED TO THE FULL SENATE APPROPRIATION COMMITTEE.
• Burton: THANK YOU THIS LEGISLATION IS WHERE PRODUCT BETWEEN DISCUSSIONS BETWEEN CHILDREN AND FAMILIES
• TO ME IT IS NOT A COST DRIVER BUT IT HELPS STREAMLINE THE PROCESS SO THEY ARE APPROPRIATELY.

Keywords: 999, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• </c> Appropriations will meet tomorrow Appropriations will meet tomorrow morning<00:24:22.960><c> at<
• Committee on Appropriations.
• appropriated out of appropriations with an appropriation and ..."
• </c> appropriations report. appropriations report.
• </c> the appropriations committee report. the appropriations committee report.

Keywords: 981, all

Transcript Highlights:

• I don't legislative liaison for DCYF.
• Uh are appropriate for New Hampshire.
• Um, it's currently being requested.
• legislation for the same thing.
• legislation for the same thing.

Committee: Senate Executive Departments and Administration

Keywords: 1191, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• </c> this day and age without any legislation this day and age without any legislation that<00:42:31.120
• That's all. appropriate actions could be taken by appropriate actions could be taken by that<01:06:46.520
• </c> an appropriate rate. an appropriate rate.
• ><c> off</c><01:37:43.560><c> the</c> This legislation will build off the This legislation will build
• 01:58:20.200><c> have</c> legislators, such as yourselves, have legislators, such as yourselves, have

Committee: Senate Health and Human Services

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Ryan Woolsey with the Legislative Analyst's Office.
• Yes, Ann Hollingshead with the Legislative Analyst's Office.
• At the appropriate time, I'm happy to take your questions.
• I am introducing legislation today.
• So if you could, if you're willing, I guess it's a request.

Summary: The Senate Budget and Fiscal Review Subcommittee held an oversight hearing on the impacts of H.R. 1 on California’s safety net, focusing on Medi-Cal and CalFresh. The chair and vice chair framed the issue as a major federal disruption that would reduce benefits and shift costs to the state, counties, hospitals, and other local systems. The first panel included the Legislative Analyst’s Office, the Department of Finance, the UC Berkeley Labor Center, and the Food Research and Action Center, each describing projected enrollment losses, higher state and county costs, and implementation challenges. The LAO outlined H.R. 1’s main changes: new and expanded work requirements, more frequent eligibility redeterminations, restrictions on certain non-citizen eligibility, and financing changes affecting provider taxes and federal matching rates. The LAO estimated that 1 to 2 million people could be disenrolled from Medi-Cal and more than 600,000 could lose CalFresh, with additional costs from reduced federal support and possible state and county administrative burdens. The Department of Finance said the Governor’s budget includes about $1.4 billion General Fund in 2026-27 to respond to H.R. 1, with larger out-year reductions in federal funds and projected Medi-Cal caseload losses of up to 2 million by 2029-30. The UC Berkeley Labor Center projected up to 3 million Californians could lose full-scope Medi-Cal by 2028 when H.R. 1 is combined with state budget changes, while noting the state could choose policies that would reduce some of those losses. The Food Research and Action Center warned that CalFresh cuts and time limits would increase hunger, worsen health outcomes, and strain local economies and emergency systems. Members questioned the witnesses about procedural disenrollments, regional variation, the overall growth in Medi-Cal spending, the future of the MCO tax, the CalFresh error rate, and the downstream effects on hospitals and county indigent care. Several senators argued that the federal law was driven by tax cuts for high-income earners and would disproportionately harm low-income Californians, immigrants, and communities of color. Administration witnesses said some impacts are still being analyzed, that counties and departments are working on implementation, and that the Legislature may need to use statute, reporting, and oversight tools as federal guidance develops. No votes or formal actions were taken during this portion of the hearing.

Transcript Highlights:

• for the first time that I've ever noticed, you have nobody wanting to testify on your piece of legislation
• , sales notices and lists must be posted on the department's website and also made available upon request
• Notices and lists must be posted on the department's website and also made available upon request.
• In addition, notice of land sales no longer have to be posted in DNR's Olympia office or in the appropriate
• The committee then moved to consider Senate Bill 6233 and requested a staff report.

Bills: SB5930 , SB6075 , SB6216 , SB6233

Committee: Senate Agriculture & Natural Resources

Keywords: irrigation districts, director contracts, beneficial interests, transparency, governance, mitigation, habitat conservation, property rights, landowner compensation, fairness in mitigation, critical habitat, species preservation, riparian protection, salmon recovery, watershed planning, Department of Fish and Wildlife, Department of Ecology, habitat conservation account, conservation easement, noxious weed control

Transcript Highlights:

• </c> appropriate to do so. appropriate to do so.
• We are required to obtain sufficient appropriate evidence in order to support the conclusions that we
• </c><00:26:22.320><c> to</c> office as it's needed appropriately to office as it's needed appropriately
• Their problem was with the legislative branch asking an executive branch contractor for the data.
• </c><00:30:34.080><c> branch</c><00:30:34.880><c> directly,</c> with the legislative branch directly,

Keywords: 1189, house, all

Summary: The committee received an update from the LBA on three audits related to education programs. Christine Young reported that the special education audit is in report-writing, with 44 of 81 observations completed, and that a draft is expected early in the third quarter with a final report later in the summer. She also said the doorway program audit has a draft report with 12 observations, auditee responses were received May 14, an exit conference was held May 18, and the report is now expected to be presented at the June fiscal committee meeting. The bulk of the discussion focused on the education freedom accounts audit and a proposed expansion of scope. Beulah Skids explained that the original audit, required by the 2022 law creating the EFA program, would be expanded to examine whether students were New Hampshire residents at enrollment and throughout participation, and whether records of educational attainment satisfied program requirements. She described the current work, the draft cooperation agreement being developed with the Department of Education and the Children’s Scholarship Fund, and the department’s concerns about the audit period and the term "educational progress," which the LBA said it would revise. The committee discussed that the expanded work would depend on a written agreement giving the LBA access to needed records, policies, and staff, with the Department of Education potentially serving as an intermediary for data access. Members raised concerns about the scope period and data access. Senator Lang asked that the residency review be limited to the 2024-25 and 2025-26 school years, rather than the broader 2022-25 period, because those years captured the major program expansions; the committee appeared to agree, with clarification that the reference was to school years, not fiscal years. Members also discussed reconciliation of EFA funds, noting that the department has agreed to reopen rulemaking to make reconciliation more frequent so unused funds can be returned to the state sooner. Several members expressed frustration that access to data had been delayed, while LBA staff said the cooperation agreement is intended to prevent further roadblocks and that the AG’s office could review it if needed.

Transcript Highlights:

• During the 87th legislative session, we passed House Bill 2106, which transferred rulemaking authority
• Chairman, I respectfully, um, request the right to close.
• you for your time and your leadership, and thank you, Representative Perez, for presenting this legislation
• And as someone who's undergoing her second round of IVF, while we're also in the legislative session,
• Chairman, I respectfully request the right to close.

Bills: HB201 , HB272

Committee: House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services

Keywords: disabled veteran, partially disabled veteran, veterans property tax exemption, homestead exemption, ad valorem tax, property tax relief, surviving spouse, appraisal district, Tax Code, local government revenue, homestead portability, service-connected disability, veteran benefits, Texas property tax, residence homestead, disability rating, disaster response, financial assistance, helicopter, municipalities

Transcript Highlights:

• that stayed in TRS active care. appropriated well over a half a billion dollars, but we only subsidized
• TRS funds to active care, we will also put a proportional amount, must be appropriated to help school
• So I'd be happy to discuss, you know, maybe there's other legislation that is being sure that we are
• I request your favorable consideration of agents.
• This legislation would require people serving as non-attorney, non-family member advocates in special

Bills: HB 1178 , HB1411 , HB1441 , HB1773 , HB1813 , HB2107 , HB2598 , HB2911 , HB2967 , HB3672 , HB5263 , HB3797

Committee: House Public Education

Keywords: education, temporary certification, out-of-state educators, teacher shortage, military spouses, personal leave, school holidays, employee compensation, overtime provisions, school safety, peace officers, mental health, de-escalation techniques, trauma-informed care, student trustee, school board, student representation, education policy, nonvoting position, school governance

Transcript Highlights:

• Chair and members, for the record, Sawyer Bessler, legislative research analyst for the Committee on
• Would we have to have legislation here, or do we have to have like a MOU with the other states?
• That's a separate compact legislation reciprocity, basically, yes.
• Chairman, to your request, Sawyer had sent a couple analyses to us, and I think..." "Mr.
• There's something you're trying to attain that would be, I mean, very appropriate to look at.

Committee: Joint Arizona Off-Highway Vehicle Study Committee

Summary: The Arizona Off-Road Vehicle Study Committee met to review Senate Bill 1519 and broader OHV policy issues, including funding, mitigation, enforcement, and education. Staff summarized the bill’s amended provisions: raising the OHV/ATV weight threshold from 2,500 to 3,500 pounds, directing ADOT to create a new usage classification, creating an Off-Highway Vehicle Law Enforcement Fund, and setting a 50% vehicle license tax for vehicles in the 2,500–3,500 pound range. Members discussed how many vehicles would be affected, with industry testimony estimating about 2,600 new Arizona sales in that weight class in 2025 and growth of roughly 10% annually. Committee members also debated whether changes should be revenue-neutral to ADOT/HIRF or instead generate dedicated enforcement and mitigation funding without reopening HIRF distribution. The committee then turned to education. Staff reviewed SB 1567, which requires OHV course completion before issuance of an OHV indicia and includes a report due December 1, 2026. Game and Fish said the mandatory education appears to be improving behavior, especially helmet use by children. Several witnesses, including representatives from Riding Arizona and ABATE Arizona, supported a consistent statewide training model and suggested expanding the requirement from owners to operators, with possible reciprocity or compact-style recognition with other states. Members also raised practical questions about proof of completion, online access, and how law enforcement would verify compliance. For mitigation and enforcement funding, committee members and invited stakeholders discussed the scale of the need. A research presentation from Arizona Sportsmen for Wildlife Conservation estimated about $3.5 million annually for additional law enforcement and about $7.5 million annually for natural resource mitigation, for a combined target of roughly $11 million per year. The estimate was based on county sheriff input and existing federal land-management data on illegal or user-created roads, with a statewide rough range of 12,000 to 17,000 miles of roads needing some form of closure or decommissioning. Members emphasized that the estimate did not include all possible costs, such as fence repair, tank restoration, or environmental compliance, and discussed soft versus hard closures, prevention, and the need to pair any mitigation spending with enforcement and education. No formal vote was taken in the portion provided; the committee mainly received information, asked questions, and continued discussion of possible recommendations.