Transcript Highlights:

• This is not a victimless crime.
• This is not a victimless crime.
• This is really organized crime.
• This is really organized crime.
• Should that be a crime or not?

Summary: The committee approved the minutes and then heard a long series of bills, mostly from Senators Hoffman, Fernandez, and Bolick. Early action included SB 1436 on school bond/override ballot language, which passed 4-3 after brief debate over ballot length and transparency. SB 1568, requiring election systems to keep clocks within 60 seconds of official time and making violations a misdemeanor, was amended and passed 4-3 despite concerns about machine failures and the breadth of the penalty. SB 1569, limiting special election board members from collecting voter registrations while assisting confined voters, also passed 4-3 after testimony from county officials and a deputy registrar describing alleged misuse of SEBs. SB 1746, requiring schools to serve as polling places and closing schools on regular primary/general election days for staff training, passed 4-3 over objections about school autonomy and safety. SB 1295, allowing certain incarcerated people needing long-term care or treatment to be transferred to contracted medical institutions, passed unanimously after an amendment narrowing the medical eligibility language. The committee then took up SB 1067, a county blight/abatement bill allowing property tax bills to include assessments for removing rubbish, debris, and dilapidated structures; county officials from Gila and Pima Counties strongly supported it, and it passed 7-0. SB 1285, which would have repealed kratom protections and added kratom and its alkaloids to the narcotic-drug list, drew strong opposition from industry and a pharmacist and failed 3-4 after debate over safety, regulation, and criminal penalties. SB 1413, removing the $100,000 restitution cap for serious injury or death caused by a moving violation, passed after a short explanation that it was intended to conform statutes to a prior Arizona Supreme Court ruling. SB 1476, making prenatal exposure to dangerous or narcotic drugs and fetal alcohol syndrome a class six felony child neglect offense with an affirmative defense for mothers who completed treatment, drew emotional testimony from a foster/adoptive parent and opposition from reproductive justice and criminal defense advocates; it passed 4-2. Later, SB 1585, creating standards and funding mechanisms for sex offender-specific evaluations, treatment, and polygraphs, passed 4-2 after supporters argued it would improve oversight and opponents questioned the added surcharge and appropriation. SB 1662, requiring probation conditions to be the least restrictive necessary and tailored to risk and needs, passed 5-0 with support from justice reform advocates and defense attorneys. SB 1664, adjusting constable nomination signature requirements in Maricopa and Pima Counties, passed unanimously after county association support. The committee then began SB 1666 on in-state custodial interference, with the sponsor and a supporter describing repeated violations of custody orders and arguing for a tiered civil-penalty-to-felony structure; the transcript ends during questioning on that bill.

Transcript Highlights:

• Most sexual offenses are crimes of social, not geographic, proximity.
• is a crime of domestic violence.
• Florida law recognizes domestic violence as a crime.
• Anyone ever convicted of any crime is ineligible.
• a dangerous crime.

Bills: S0212, S0656, S0682, S0810, S0812, S0890, S0892, S0900, S0928, S1084, S1284

Keywords: sexual offender, sexual predator, sex offender registry, child protection, residency restriction, loitering, proximity restriction, public swimming pool, school safety, child care facility, day care center, park, playground, conditional release, probation, community control, warrantless arrest, background check, registry screening, minor victims

Summary: The committee took up a series of criminal justice and public safety bills. SB 1084, which exempts certain identifying and location information for non-legal support staff in state attorneys’ offices from public records requests, was supported by prosecuting attorneys and reported favorably. SB 212, as amended, created new restrictions related to sexual offenders and predators, including a 200-foot restricted presence provision near certain locations and updated notification/supervision requirements; it drew strong opposition from researchers, advocates, and affected families who argued it lacked evidence and would increase homelessness, but it was reported favorably. SB 682, addressing domestic violence, coercive control, strangulation, animal abuse, injunctions, and related training and enforcement issues, received emotional survivor testimony and support from animal welfare and law enforcement groups and was reported favorably. SB 656, creating and renaming FDLE Internet Crimes Against Children funding and grant programs, was amended and reported favorably and unanimously. The committee also considered SB 810 on sealing criminal history records, which would expand eligibility for some non-conviction records and one low-level misdemeanor conviction after waiting periods and judicial review; supporters said Florida is unusually restrictive, while one senator raised concerns about the scope, and the bill was reported favorably. SB 890, creating a standalone battery by strangulation offense applicable outside domestic relationships, was reported favorably after the sponsor said it would close a gap in current law. SB 892, revising habitual offender and violent career criminal sentencing procedures and notice requirements, was reported favorably, with defense lawyers supporting the clearer pretrial notice. SB 928, “Missy’s Law,” requiring immediate remand to custody after conviction of certain dangerous crimes, was amended to include computer pornography/child exploitation offenses and reported favorably after a family member of the namesake victim testified in support. Later, SB 1284 modernized arrest and search warrant statutes, expanding judicial summons options for some misdemeanors and broadening warrant/arrest authority in certain DUI, injunction, domestic violence, and misdemeanor force cases; defense lawyers supported the judicial-discretion portions but raised concerns about DUI/BUI arrests, and the bill was reported favorably. Finally, SB 812, a technical companion to SB 810 updating public records treatment for sealed criminal history records, was amended to clarify prosecutorial access for later cases and reported favorably. Several bills were supported by law enforcement, prosecutors, and advocacy groups, while others drew opposition from civil liberties, treatment, homelessness, and criminal defense advocates. The meeting adjourned after members recorded additional votes on selected tabs.

Transcript Highlights:

• Visas are federal protections designed to help non-citizen survivors of serious crime or trafficking
• safely report crimes and assist law enforcement without fear of immigration consequences.
• Computer and Communications >> Thank you.
• Computer and Communications Industry<01:43:34.080><c> Association.</c> Industry Association.
• /c><01:43:37.600><c> and</c> Downey with the Computer and Downey with the Computer and Communications

Bills: HB1838, HB1870, HB2445, HB2540, HB1886, HB1839, HB2269, HB1939, HB2037, HB1635, HB1941, HB1576, HB2568, HB2267, HB2590, HB2266, HB2597, HB2499, HB2500, HB2502, HB2607, HB2137, HB2357, HB1782

Keywords: HB1838, Hawaii, Act 142, U visa, T visa, U nonimmigrant status, T nonimmigrant status, immigration certification, visa certification, Form I-918 Supplement B, Form I-914 Supplement B, noncitizen victims, crime victim, human trafficking, victim helpfulness, law enforcement certification, prosecutor certification, judicial review, circuit court, confidentiality

Summary: The committee opened testimony on House Bill 1838, relating to visas. Testifiers from the State Health Planning and Development Agency, the legal clinic, the Hawaii State Coalition Against Domestic Violence, the ACLU, CARES, and immigrant-rights groups strongly supported the bill, saying it would bring Hawaii into compliance with federal law, standardize and speed up certification for U and T visa applicants, and better protect survivors of crime and trafficking. Supporters emphasized that delays in certification can leave eligible survivors waiting years for federal visa access and can undermine public safety by discouraging victims from reporting crimes. The chair announced there were 103 testimonies in support and one in opposition, and the committee then moved on without taking a vote on the bill in the hearing. The committee next heard House Bill 1870, concerning protected locations and immigration enforcement. Testimony from the Hawaii Coalition for Immigrant Rights, ACLU of Hawaii, educators, students, and community advocates supported limiting immigration enforcement at schools and other essential-service sites, arguing that families should be able to access education, health care, shelters, libraries, and social services without fear. The Department of Education said it had already issued guidance in March 2025 for how staff should respond when law enforcement comes onto campus, and the Public Charter School Commission noted implementation would need to occur at the school level. Testifiers said the bill would create standardized protocols and protect students and families from fear and disruption; the chair reported 142 testimonies in support, one in opposition, and five comments. The committee then took up House Bill 2445, relating to student safety and law enforcement on campus. The Department of Education again said it had already rolled out statewide guidance and described its process for staff to notify administration, verify law enforcement identification and purpose, and route matters through the complex area superintendent and attorney general, while noting emergencies would be handled differently. A committee member questioned whether the procedures were sufficiently standardized and whether staff were trained for unusual situations. Student and community testifiers supported the bill, saying schools should remain safe havens and that clear procedures are needed if federal immigration enforcement appears on campus. The Department of Law Enforcement testified in opposition to parts of the measure, raising concerns about masking requirements, vehicle markings, officer safety, doxxing, retaliation, costs, and possible supremacy-clause conflicts, and suggested more exemptions and a compromise approach. The chair reported 106 testimonies in support, two comments, and no opposition for the bill before moving on to the next measure.

Transcript Highlights:

• Drones are going to be the new frontier in crime. It's a new name. Yes, uncrewed aircraft...
• c><00:02:33.360><c> in</c> are going to be the new frontier in are going to be the new frontier in crime
• it's a new name Ben yes unscrewed crime it's a new name Ben yes unscrewed aircraft<00:02:38.280><c>
• Some uh counties with much more sophisticated um computer technology sections can track down the drone
• </c><00:05:11.280><c> technology</c> sophisticated um computer technology sophisticated um computer technology

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The committee heard testimony on several transportation-related measures. SB 282 would increase penalties for using an uncrewed aircraft, or drone, in the commission of a felony. The Honolulu Department of the Prosecuting Attorney strongly supported the bill, saying drones are being used to facilitate crimes such as burglaries, sex offender registration violations, and even murders, and that the measure would create a stronger deterrent and address sentencing issues. Members discussed how drone use could be investigated and noted that a prior Uncrewed Aircraft Offenses Act already covers a range of drone-related offenses. Testimony also included support from a Kauaʻi County Council member and the Office of the Public Defender, and the bill was then set aside as the committee moved on. The committee also heard SB 1032 on campaign finance, which would amend restrictions on foreign nationals and foreign corporations making contributions and expenditures. Testimony was listed in support from labor, civic, and advocacy groups, with some opposition, but the measure was not debated further in the portion provided. SB 1160, a consumer protection bill on ticket resale, drew support from venues and event groups and opposition from the Chamber of Progress, which argued the bill should target scalpers and deceptive practices rather than legitimate resale platforms. The Attorney General suggested an amendment to limit the bill’s scope to Hawaiʻi events, citing Commerce Clause concerns. On SB 344, requiring skateboard users under 16 to wear helmets, the Department of Transportation, Honolulu Police Department, and the Kiki Injury Prevention Coalition supported the measure. SB 106, which would let pedestrians cross outside marked crosswalks when a reasonably careful pedestrian would see no immediate danger, drew mixed testimony: public health and equity advocates supported it as a safety and anti-profiling measure, while others opposed it, warning it could increase danger on wider, faster roads. Committee members questioned whether Hawaiʻi’s current law is more dangerous because pedestrians must step into the roadway before drivers are required to stop, and the discussion continued at length without a final vote in the excerpt. The committee also heard SB 10009 on accessible parking fines, with DCAB and DAGS supporting the intent; a member asked that any new fine revenue go to the state parking revolving fund. SB 820, shortening the vehicle title transfer deadline from 30 days to 14 days, drew opposition from the Public Defender and Honolulu Customer Services, who said the current deadline is reasonable and the bill did not clearly solve a problem. Later measures included SB 1095 on license plate decal restrictions, SB 215 on towing and immobilization fees, and SB 1117 on electric mobility rebates and age/helmet rules, which received support from transportation and safety groups, though the transcript cuts off before any final actions or votes on those bills.

Transcript Highlights:

• Does this not show that victims of a violent crime was first the victim of one.
• Most of the women here were victims of violence and abuse long before committing any crime.
• Remote work we can do from computers.
• Crime is on the rise, and the 2018 crime bill is not working, which we all know is not the case.
• I mean, it's about crime and keeping community safe.

Keywords: 995, all

Summary: The committee on State Administration and Regulatory Oversight held a hybrid hearing covering public construction, business regulations, and honorary designations, with most of the discussion focused on two matters: a five-year moratorium on new jail and prison construction (S. 2114/H. 3422) and a bill designating June 7 as Tourette Syndrome Awareness Day (S. 2152/H. 3305). The chair emphasized that the hearing was public, testimony would be recorded, and speakers should generally keep remarks to three minutes. Senator Comerford introduced the prison moratorium bill, saying it would pause new construction while allowing renovations, and Senator Friedman introduced the Tourette awareness bill and a separate Tuskegee Airmen commemoration measure, asking for favorable action on both honorary designations. A large portion of the hearing featured remote testimony from incarcerated people at MCI Framingham and MCI Shirley in support of the prison moratorium. Witnesses repeatedly argued that Massachusetts does not need a new women’s prison, that the incarcerated population is declining, and that funds would be better spent on mental health care, addiction treatment, vocational training, pre-release programming, housing, and repairs to existing facilities. Several speakers described poor conditions, limited programming, and the need to address trauma, domestic violence, and substance use as root causes of incarceration. One committee member responded to testimony by noting that incarceration numbers are going down, that the state is working on housing and workforce opportunities for people returning home, and that the committee wants to expand pathways to employment and reentry. The Tourette Syndrome Awareness Day bill drew testimony from the bill’s young sponsor, Owen Rosenthal, his parents, medical professionals, and advocates. They described Tourette syndrome as a misunderstood neurodevelopmental condition, said awareness would reduce stigma and improve diagnosis and support, and cited the need for education in schools, workplaces, and the medical community. The Tourette Association of America supported the bill, noting underdiagnosis, co-occurring conditions, pain, and mental health risks associated with Tourette syndrome. Committee members praised the youth advocates and asked that written testimony be submitted electronically. The hearing ended without any recorded votes or final committee action in the transcript provided.

Transcript Highlights:

• They're still up on the presentation computer.
• for which people are being sentenced recently has been, it's more for drug crimes than anything else
• for which they're sentenced for are drug crimes.
• been, it's more for drug crimes than anything else.
• for which they're sentenced for are—drug crimes.

Keywords: 989, all

Summary: The Senate Judiciary and Rules Committee approved the January 19, 2026 minutes and advanced the gubernatorial reappointment of Michael Kennedy to the Idaho Judicial Council with a recommendation that the Senate confirm him. The committee then received budget presentations from JFAC and Legislative Services Office staff on the judicial branch, the Department of Correction, and Idaho State Police, focusing on FY 2027 enhancement requests, supplemental needs, and broader budget pressures. For the courts, testimony highlighted a requested increase for guardian ad litem/CASA pass-through funds in the Second Judicial District and a larger request for the Senior Judge/Magistrate Retirement Fund due to expected retirements and service purchases. For IDOC, analysts described declining dedicated-fund cash balances, the effect of the governor’s holdback, and population-driven growth in county/out-of-state placement and medical services; senators asked about vacant funded positions, inmate labor revenue losses, probation/parole collections, and why prison populations are rising despite lower crime trends. For Idaho State Police, the main discussion was a proposed commission pay plan funded by increasing the Project Choice vehicle registration fee from $3 to $12, with senators expressing concern about shifting police compensation costs to vehicle owners. JFAC Chair Scott Grow also discussed state revenue and spending trends, warning about structural imbalance and the uncertainty around revenue forecasts and conformity-related fiscal impacts. He said JFAC was considering ongoing reductions to help address the gap between revenues and expenses. The committee then printed RS 33169, which would strengthen Idaho’s illegal-entry/presence law and clarify its relationship to federal law, and RS 33172, which would clarify juvenile probation officers’ authority to arrest, detain, and transport juvenile probationers in certain circumstances. Finally, the committee heard Senate Bill 1239, which would clarify that the 500-foot sex-offender residency restriction applies not only to state-licensed daycares but also to daycares zoned, permitted, or approved by local governments. Senator Nichols said the bill is a technical correction, not retroactive, and would not require existing residents to move if a daycare later opened nearby. The committee sent SB 1239 to the floor with a due pass recommendation and then adjourned.

Transcript Highlights:

• I'm still waiting for my computer to do that. Ah, gotcha. So it was a split vote. It was.
• My computer. Ah, gotcha. So it was a split vote. Was it? Well, then. Yeah. All right, here we are.
• My computer or something now. Yeah. I'm trying to remember. I don't know if we... Let's you. Yeah.
• Madam Chair and members, Senate Bill 1271, Businesses Crime Reporting Penalty Prohibition, prohibits

Summary: The committee heard a long list of Senate bills, mostly on consent, covering appropriations, public records, workers’ compensation, state hiring, burial costs, military flags in HOAs, court-ordered treatment, mental health service of process, medical examiner authority, tribal MOUs for DCS, controlled substances scheduling, EMT privacy, mammography notices, assisted living referral disclosures, accommodation school GED eligibility, released-time religious instruction, school board and charter governance issues, firearm safety instruction, student eligibility for extracurriculars after criminal convictions, Celebrate Freedom Week, tax-credit scholarship administration, CPA and insurance licensing pathways, immigration-related arrest notifications, defamation standards, peace officer certification for veterans, mandatory child abuse reporting, attorney licensing, business emergency-call penalties, unlawful occupant removals, attorney discipline costs, fentanyl sentencing thresholds, concealed weapons on campuses, firearm muffling devices, utility-worker assault penalties, water planning, environmental review for power plants and SMRs, groundwater recovery, voter registration rules, campaign address privacy, and federal land acquisition notifications. Several bills were pulled from consent for further discussion, including SB 1078, SB 1435, SB 1567, SB 1665, SB 1184, SB 1586, SB 1741, SB 1424, SB 1475, SB 1572, SB 1142, SB 1055, SB 1099, SB 1107, SB 1148, SB 1068, and SB 1069. Members raised concerns about constitutional issues, due process, school funding, public safety, and whether some proposals were unnecessary or duplicative. Supportive comments were also made on a few measures, such as expanded pathways for students in accommodation schools, child welfare coordination with tribes, and alternative certification or licensing pathways. The discussion included notable debate on SB 1166, which would allow some 11th graders and students over 16 in accommodation schools to receive GED preparation; members split between concerns about encouraging students to leave high school early and support for youth in detention, emancipation, or unstable situations. SB 1127 on mandatory reporting was clarified to require direct reporting of known abuse or neglect to DCS rather than delegation to another person. SB 1188 on controlled substances drew questions about how federal rescheduling would be mirrored in state law. The meeting ended with announcements and an “Affordability Award” recognizing Rep. Stahl Hamilton, followed by a request for guests to leave for a closed caucus.

Transcript Highlights:

• You want to make the letter A when you type on your computer. That's 000000001.
• <01:31:20.000><c> that's</c> computer that's computer that's 000000001<01:31:22.000><c> you</c><01:31
• You want to make the letter A when you type on your computer. That's 000000001.
• </c> state safer um it hasn't deterred crime state safer um it hasn't deterred crime and<01:42:33.480
• Please proceed. crime of violence as defined in HRS 1341 crime of violence as defined in HRS 1341 the

Keywords: 910, house, all

Summary: The committee first heard House Bill 302, which would repeal the requirement that a provider-patient relationship for medical cannabis certification be established in person first. The Department of Health said it supported the House Draft 2 version as a way to expand patient access, and several testifiers from the medical cannabis community and dispensary industry supported the bill, especially for patients on outer islands or those unable to travel. One witness asked that earlier language removed in committee be restored to further improve access. Representative Shimizu asked whether follow-up in-person visits would still occur, and DOH responded that this varies by provider, with some continuing in-person care and others moving to telehealth for chronic conditions. The committee then took up House Bill 712, relating to the federal 340B drug pricing program and contract pharmacies. The Office of Consumer Protection and the Attorney General’s office both said they supported the bill’s purpose but wanted it clarified and possibly moved into a standalone chapter rather than chapter 481B. Supporters, including Hawaii Pacific Health and the Queen’s Health Systems, said the bill is needed to protect safety-net funding and access to discounted drugs, citing large financial benefits from 340B and losses caused by manufacturer restrictions on contract pharmacies. PhRMA opposed the bill, arguing the issue is not access to discounts but accountability and transparency in how contract pharmacies distribute benefits, and said it was willing to discuss amendments. Members asked follow-up questions about whether there was data showing misuse; PhRMA said it did not have numbers, while hospital witnesses said the program is federally audited and used appropriately in Hawaii. Finally, the committee heard House Bill 1482, HD1, which would tighten hemp and controlled-substance definitions to exclude Schedule I cannabinoids from manufactured hemp products and clarify the treatment of artificially derived cannabis. The Department of Health supported the measure, saying it adds clarity to existing prohibitions. Kūre Hawaii and other supporters said it would close loopholes involving Delta-8 and similar products. An individual testifier urged stronger language to also cover compounds such as HHC, THCA, THCP, and THCO. In response to questions about enforcement against mislabeled hemp products, DOH explained that THC percentages are relative to product weight, that some products can remain under the hemp threshold while still containing significant THC, and that hemp flower is already prohibited from direct retail sale, though enforcement can be complicated and involves both administrative and criminal authorities.

Transcript Highlights:

• Templin said the issue is bots, organized crime, and international organizations.
• Yes, for Senate Bill 656 on Internet Crimes by Senator Bradley.
• Senate Bill 656 on Internet Crimes by Senator Bradley. Senator Bradley, you're recognized.
• it strengthens Florida's response to online child exploitation by formally codifying the Internet Crimes
• Secondly, the bill renames the online sting operations grant program to be known as the Internet Crimes

Summary: The Committee on Fiscal Policy met with a quorum present and took up a full agenda of bills, beginning with agency and records measures from Senator Massullo. SB 488, the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles agency package, would update reporting thresholds for crashes, expand DHSMV’s use of email for certain transactions, and align tank vehicle definitions with federal rules; it was reported favorably. Its companion, SB 490, creates a public records exemption for certain email records and also passed favorably. The committee also approved SB 892, revising enhanced sentencing procedures for repeat offenders, and SB 124, which cleans up outdated Florida Virtual School language without changing day-to-day operations. Later, SB 584 on commercial driving schools, SB 656 codifying the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and related grant program, and SB 816 establishing the University of Florida Diabetes Institute in statute all passed favorably as well. The most extensive debate centered on SB 216, which would tighten reemployment assistance eligibility by adding job-search requirements, interview attendance rules, identity and immigration verification every two weeks, and fraud-reporting duties for the Department of Commerce. Senator McLean argued the bill targets fraud and improves program integrity, while opponents and several members raised concerns about fiscal impact, administrative burden, and reduced access for unemployed workers, especially seniors and rural residents. Dr. Rich Templin of the Florida AFL-CIO testified against the bill, warning it could sharply reduce recipiency and worsen an already restrictive system. Despite opposition, the bill was reported favorably on a divided roll call. The committee also approved CS/SB 382 on electric bicycles, which requires riders to yield to pedestrians on shared pathways, sound an audible signal before passing, and limits speed near pedestrians; it also creates a task force to study further regulation. Michelle Lynch, whose son was killed in an e-scooter crash, testified in support of broader safety rules and urged the committee to add e-scooters back into the bill. Several members echoed concerns about e-scooter safety and asked for further work, but the bill advanced favorably. At the end of the meeting, members requested to be recorded on specific tabs, and the committee adjourned without further business.

Transcript Highlights:

• . that's not the ...about is bots and organized crime and international organizations.
• Yes, for Senate Bill 656 on Internet Crimes by Senator Bradley.
• Senate Bill 656 on Internet Crimes by Senator Bradley. Senator Bradley, you're recognized.
• it strengthens Florida's response to online child exploitation by formally codifying the Internet Crimes
• Secondly, the bill renames the online sting operations grant program to be known as the Internet Crimes

Bills: S0124, S0216, S0382, S0488, S0490, S0524, S0584, S0656, S0816, S0892, S1156

Keywords: Florida Virtual School, FLVS, virtual school, online education, distance learning, K-12 education, public school choice, charter-like franchise, student enrollment priorities, home education, homeschool, military families, active duty military, rural schools, inner-city schools, accelerated graduation, education technology, supplemental funding, direct-support organization, foundation

Summary: The Committee on Fiscal Policy met and first postponed SB 524 and SB 1156. It then heard and favorably reported several bills, including SB 488 and SB 490 by Sen. Massullo, which update Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles procedures, raise the crash-reporting threshold, expand email use, and create a related public-records exemption. The committee also favorably reported SB 892 by Sen. Martin on enhanced sentencing for repeat offenders, SB 124 by Sen. Rodriguez updating Florida Virtual School statutes, and SB 584 by Sen. Yarbrough strengthening oversight of commercial driving schools and tax collector authority. SB 656 by Sen. Bradley, codifying the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and related grant program, and SB 816 by Sen. Bradley, formally establishing the University of Florida Diabetes Institute, also passed unanimously or near-unanimously. The most extensive debate centered on SB 216 by Sen. McLean, which would tighten unemployment assistance eligibility by adding job-search requirements, more frequent verification, and fraud-reporting measures. Supporters argued the bill would reduce fraud and improve program integrity, while opponents from labor groups and several senators warned it would burden claimants, especially rural residents, seniors, and workers facing layoffs, and could sharply reduce access to benefits. Despite those objections, the committee reported the bill favorably on a divided vote. The committee also considered CS/SB 382 by Sen. Truenow on electric bicycles, requiring riders to yield to pedestrians, sound an audible signal before passing, and limit speed near pedestrians, while creating a task force to study broader regulation of e-bikes and related devices. A mother whose son was killed on an electric scooter urged the committee to restore scooters to the bill, and several members expressed support for further work on that issue. The committee reported the bill favorably. At the end of the meeting, members recorded additional affirmative votes on selected tabs, and the committee adjourned.

Bills: SB5223, SB6071, SB5966, SB6061, SB5520, SB6016, SB5890, SB5973, SB5053, SB5249, SB5536, SB5879, SB5899, SB6190, SB6086, SB5574, SB5873, SB5924, SB6134, SB6263, SB6282, SB6302, SB5950, SB6074, SB6096, SB5970, SB5609, SB5827, SB5862, SB5880, SB5901, SB5943, SB5971, SB5975, SB5981, SB5988, SB6097, SJM8016, SB5496, SB5907, SB6031, SB6155, SB6158, SB6227, SB5947, SB6085, SB6234, SB6274, SB6194, SB5909, SB5868, SB6026, SB6044, SB6239, SB5923, SB6045, SB6106, SB6089, SB6170, SB5954, SB5968, SB5489, SB5762, SB5832, SB5847, SB5963, SB5969, SB6027, SB6032, SB6049, SB6066, SB6079, SB6082, SB6113, SB6114, SB6160, SB6162, SB6164, SB6176, SB6289, SB6309, SB6319, SB6347, SB6308, SB6200, SB6080, SB5911, SJM8014, SB6177, SB6052, SB6182, SB5828, SB6335, SB6017, SB6346, SB6262, SB5470, SB5990, SB6244, SB5961

Keywords: criminal offense, fingerprinting, law enforcement, state regulations, public safety, overpayment recovery, modernization, health care, legislation, healthcare, nutrition, medically tailored meals, dietary support, food security, chronic illness, tourism, self-supported assessment, funding, statewide promotion, economic development

Bills: SB5223, SB6071, SB5966, SB6061, SB5520, SB6016, SB5890, SB5973, SB5053, SB5249, SB5536, SB5879, SB5899, SB6190, SB6086, SB5574, SB5873, SB5924, SB6134, SB6263, SB6282, SB6302, SB5950, SB6074, SB6096, SB5970, SB5609, SB5827, SB5862, SB5880, SB5901, SB5943, SB5971, SB5975, SB5981, SB5988, SB6097, SJM8016, SB5496, SB5907, SB6031, SB6155, SB6158, SB6227, SB5947, SB6085, SB6234, SB6274, SB6194, SB5909, SB5868, SB6026, SB6044, SB6239, SB5923, SB6045, SB6106, SB6089, SB6170, SB5954, SB5968, SB5489, SB5762, SB5832, SB5847, SB5963, SB5969, SB6027, SB6032, SB6049, SB6066, SB6079, SB6082, SB6113, SB6114, SB6160, SB6162, SB6164, SB6176, SB6289, SB6309, SB6319, SB6347, SB6308, SB6200, SB6080, SB5911, SJM8014, SB6177, SB6052, SB6182, SB5828, SB6335, SB6017, SB6346, SB6262, SB5470, SB5990, SB6244, SB5961

Keywords: criminal offense, fingerprinting, law enforcement, state regulations, public safety, overpayment recovery, modernization, health care, legislation, healthcare, nutrition, medically tailored meals, dietary support, food security, chronic illness, tourism, self-supported assessment, funding, statewide promotion, economic development

Summary: The Senate opened with the usual ceremonial items, approved the previous day’s journal, received House messages, and introduced several bills. It also adopted Senate Resolution 868 honoring April as National Donate Life Month. Senators Gaynor and Dozier spoke in support, sharing personal stories about organ donation and transplant recipients, and the resolution was adopted by voice vote. The chamber also recognized guests in the gallery connected to those stories. The Senate then confirmed several gubernatorial appointments, including Colin L. Bannister to the Workforce Education, Investment, Accountability, and Oversight Board, Amina Hussein to the Washington State University Board of Regents, and Ramatou-Libah to the Eastern Washington University Board of Trustees. Each confirmation passed with broad support after brief remarks from Senator Schoesler, and several senators were excused from voting. The Senate also acknowledged MLA Jody Tour of British Columbia and a personal privilege recognition for Senator Leis receiving Finland’s Order of the Lion. On legislation, the Senate passed Engrossed Second Substitute Senate Bill 6026, dealing with residential development in commercial and mixed-use zones, after adopting and rejecting several amendments that narrowed or clarified exemptions and local-control provisions. Senators argued both for housing supply and for preserving local planning flexibility. The Senate also passed Senate Bill 6106 on layoff notifications and worker information protections, Senate Bill 5890 on speeding and reckless driving standards, Senate Bill 5536 on equitable distribution of real property in divorce, and Substitute Senate Bill 6097 allowing federally recognized tribes to participate in the Conservation Futures Program. Senate Bill 5988, authorizing fee authority for Department of Health accreditation services for opioid treatment programs, passed after a close vote with one nay. The meeting ended with the Senate standing at ease for caucus and lunch.

Transcript Highlights:

• Your computer doesn't work until you do something else.
• doesn't work until right your computer doesn't work until you<00:18:11.000><c> do</c><00:18:11.159><
• Instead of your computer, you can try the keyboard that has been... You have your audio up.
• For 12 years, I worked mostly crimes against people, sex crimes against children, child pornography cases
• from permanent disqualifications crimes from permanent disqualifications this<01:46:14.960><c> also<

Bills: HF1367, HF2732, HF1897, HF1424, HF1383, HF2728, HF2863, HF1685, HF2929

Keywords: child maltreatment, child abuse, neglect, physical abuse, sexual abuse, sex trafficking, labor trafficking, human trafficking, child protection, local welfare agency, county social services, Minnesota Department of Human Services, judicial review, district court appeal, venue, out-of-state abuse, cross-border investigation, Minnesota child welfare, family assessment, maltreatment determination

Transcript Highlights:

• </c><00:41:54.079><c> and</c> 2,894 for homicide related crimes and 2,894 for homicide related crimes
• As far as the crime element, I agree with Attorney Binet that if someone commits a crime, they should
• So I'm not saying there aren't people who are undocumented who commit crimes, but their crime rate is
• So I'm not saying there aren't people who are undocumented who commit crimes, but their crime rate is
• crime any crime crime crime uh<02:18:21.639><c> and</c><02:18:21.920><c> were</c><02:18:22.120><c> who

Keywords: 1191, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• And so with that, crimes um in the BCA.
• </c> theft or mclassification type crimes theft or mclassification type crimes occur<00:50:29.359><c>
• </c> complainant that's complaining a crime complainant that's complaining a crime was<00:51:45.839><
• There's the civil course a crime.
• We're here to crime that's established.

Keywords: 919, house, all

Summary: The conference committee took testimony on Senate File 3051, which would allow law enforcement to release unredacted collision crash investigation video and related data to certain requesters, rather than requiring redaction first. Joel Carlson, speaking for the Minnesota Association for Justice, said the bill is intended to save local governments time and money because redacted video is often later released unredacted through court motions anyway. He emphasized that the proposal is limited to people already entitled to crash reports, requires a written request and accident report, does not create an affirmative duty to release data, and preserves law enforcement’s ability to withhold data for active investigations or other protected information. He also cited the Burks decision as support for the view that a subject of data is entitled to the full data even if it includes other subjects. Colonel Christina Bogavich of the Minnesota State Patrol raised concerns that the bill would still require staff to review videos for exceptions, including private data involving bystanders, juveniles, undercover officers, CAD information, and other protected material, so it would not create the claimed time savings. She also said the bill expands the number of potential requesters and lacks a liability provision if released data is improperly disseminated. Committee members and staff discussed the current Data Practices Act, including that private data can still be discoverable in litigation through a court balancing test and that protective orders may apply. A preliminary fiscal note estimated a Department of Public Safety cost of $4,026,334 annually, and members requested copies of the note. Members questioned whether the bill would actually reduce work or simply shift when the work occurs, and whether a litigation-specific exception to redaction should be added. Carlson said he was open to changes, including making release permissive rather than mandatory and strengthening the use restrictions, while members noted the proposal had not yet been heard in the House and would need more vetting. No vote or final action was taken on the provision during this discussion.

Transcript Highlights:

• I have statistics that IRPOs don't reduce violent crime.
• We're actually bent on committing that crime. So who, who?
• It took an additional crime to pursue the necessary punishment for another crime.
• Children are particularly vulnerable for those kinds of crimes.
• We should be tough on crime.

Transcript Highlights:

• I will now call to order this Committee on Crime and Public Safety.
• The biggest barrier is not just the crime.
• Everything else that was happening in the state as far as crime, that became the crisis point.
• So I'm sure that there's folks at the crime lab that could dig into that deeper.
• Seeing none, that will conclude this hearing for Crime and Public Safety. Great job, Mr. Chair.

Summary: The Committee on Crime and Public Safety met with a quorum and first took up several bills in executive session. House Bill 2323, relating to a domestic violence registry, was discussed as a private law-enforcement database for domestic abuse offenders; members noted it was similar to other registry bills already advanced, though some said it differed in details. House Bill 2530, described as the scrap metal bill, was also voted do pass without discussion. House Bill 1882 was withdrawn from consideration after members noted it had been rolled with another bill and had been sent back from fiscal review and Rules. The committee then adopted a House committee substitute and two amendments for House Bill 3332, which concerns public safety personnel recruitment and retention and employment benefits for first responders; the substitute removed additional degree programs from scholarship eligibility and the amendments fixed scholarship prioritization language and removed a sunset from the line-of-duty death benefit. HB 3332 was voted do pass. In public hearing, Representative Justice presented House Bill 3174, Missouri’s version of Alyssa’s Law, requiring each school employee to have access to a wearable panic alert system tied to local emergency responders and school personnel. He said the bill is subject to appropriations and would use a qualified vendor list; members questioned cost, funding, liability, and whether schools could already implement such systems. Support testimony came from Lori Alhadeff, Alyssa’s mother, who described the Parkland shooting and argued that faster alerts save lives, including in medical emergencies, and from a teacher who said the system would help in both active shooter and non-shooter emergencies. No opposition testimony was offered. Representative Williams then presented House Bill 3434, which would create a Missouri statewide sexual assault response task force to examine reporting, investigation, medical response, advocacy, and prosecution and report recommendations by December 31, 2028. She said the task force would build on progress made reducing the sexual assault kit backlog but address ongoing inconsistencies across jurisdictions. Members asked about overlap with a prior expired task force, appointment structure, and whether the group should include more medical or law-enforcement representatives. Support testimony from the Missouri Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence described the history of the kit backlog, the Telesane program, uneven services across the state, and the need for continued coordination and accountability; the Missouri Emergency Nurses Association also supported the bill, citing the need to address both rural and urban response challenges.

Transcript Highlights:

• What is the threshold for this high-quality computer-generated animation?
• </c><01:37:00.159><c> generation</c><01:37:01.440><c> or</c> quality computer generation or quality computer
• and Article 3, sections A through E, of the 1948 Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime
• <01:58:47.119><c> punishment</c><01:58:47.440><c> of</c><01:58:47.599><c> the</c><01:58:47.840><c> crime
• </c> prevention and punishment of the crime prevention and punishment of the crime of<01:58:48.239><c

Keywords: 1189, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Those of you who have teenage crime.
• And of psilocybin with a felony crime.
• </c> nature and context of particular crime nature and context of particular crime or<01:41:27.960><c
• They're fairly short crimes, right?
• </c><04:43:38.160><c> Penalties</c> violations, not crimes. Penalties violations, not crimes.

Keywords: 1189, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• computer science?
• Yes. >> So, we have computer science and other requirements can make up for the computer science?
• Yes. >> Certified teacher, but not certified or not in computer science, because I think computer science
• </c><01:32:54.200><c> And</c> the computer science? Right. Okay. And the computer science? Right.
• <01:33:53.280><c> science</c> computer science computer science &gt;&gt; computer<01:33:54.040><c> science

Keywords: 920, all

Summary: The Alabama Senate convened with prayer, the pledge, and a quorum present, then quickly handled routine business including excusing absent senators, adopting the prior journal, and recognizing several guests in the gallery. The chamber also paused to honor Dr. Mark Sullivan, superintendent of Birmingham City Schools, with a Senate resolution commending him as the Alabama Education Association’s 2025-26 outstanding superintendent of the year. Senator Smitherman and Dr. Sullivan both spoke, with Sullivan highlighting Birmingham’s academic gains, reduced failing schools, and lower chronic absenteeism. The Senate then processed a series of House messages and confirmations. It concurred in SB 288 on agriculture authorities and SB 317 on the Alabama Commission on the Evaluation of Services, but non-concurred and sent SB 174 on natural resources and SB 32 on solid waste collection fees to conference. The chamber confirmed numerous appointments, including Rex Jones, William Donahue, Jim Massey, Jason Windham, Alexander Atwater, Charles Dean, Steve McKinnon, Bonnie Temple, Shaniqua Johnson-Enam, Dwayne Jenkins, Troy Skipworth, Gloria Watts, Tracy Doughty, Kevin Ball, Joe D. Briggs, Josh Bryant, Dylan Turk, David R. Pruitt III, and Carol Smitherman, with most confirmations passing on near-unanimous rolls. Committee reports advanced several House bills, including favorable reports on HB 224, 591, 614, 609, 444, 248, 611, 622, 92, and 556, with HB 248 amended. The Senate also adopted a resolution honoring the University of Alabama women’s wheelchair basketball team for winning the 2026 national championship, and another resolution recognizing the seriousness of the national debt and urging Congress to establish regular budget order. A resolution honoring retired Brigadier General Vandiver H. Carter as the 2026 Marion Military Institute Alumnus of the Year and a resolution commending John R. Cooper were also adopted. In local legislation, the Senate passed HB 635 for Choctaw County, HB 639 for Escambia County, SB 10 for Tuscaloosa County, HB 315 for class one municipalities after adopting a committee substitute and a friendly amendment, and HB 404 for class one municipalities. Finally, the Committee on Rules reported and the Senate adopted a special order calendar for the next legislative day, listing a wide range of bills for priority consideration, including measures on solar power facilities, homestead exemptions, education, guardianships, tax increment districts, legal tender, college tuition, crime victims compensation, motor vehicles, entertainment industry issues, campus chaplains, tax abatements, alcoholic beverage producers, data privacy, constables, insurance, municipal audits, income tax, public high schools, taxation, state health planning, and University of Alabama matters.