Transcript Highlights:

• Senator Gray moves adoption of the item. passes passes later<00:32:49.960><c> okay</c><00:32:50.159><
• c> well</c><00:32:50.360><c> thanks</c><00:32:50.760><c> thank</c><00:32:50.919><c> you</c><00:32:51.039
• ><c> further</c><00:32:52.559><c> from</c><00:32:52.720><c> the</c><00:32:53.039><c> committee</c><00
• much<00:32:54.360><c> have</c><00:32:54.519><c> your</c><00:32:54.760><c> operating</c><00:32:55.320
• ><c> costs</c><00:32:55.679><c> gone</c><00:32:55.960><c> up</c> much have your operating costs gone

Keywords: 928, house, all

Summary: The Fiscal Committee met on February 21 and first approved the January 30 minutes and the consent calendar, with item 2540 removed by the Department of Education and item 25057 set aside for discussion. The committee then took up FIS 25057, a Department of Transportation request tied to a federal grant for building information modeling and related data standardization across DOT systems. Transportation officials explained that the $2.405 million consultant-heavy request would connect surveying, design, construction, and asset management systems, improve efficiency and long-term asset tracking, and help the department catch up with other states. Several senators questioned the lack of immediate, quantifiable budget savings and the reliance on consultants, but the item was ultimately adopted. The committee next approved FIS 25054 for the Department of Health and Human Services after questioning a $16 million shortfall in the Children’s Health Insurance Program. DHHS explained the variance as a budgeting and accounting issue tied to separating CHIP from Medicaid managed care, pandemic-era continuous enrollment, and the new federal requirement for 12 months of continuous coverage for children. Members also approved a Cannon Mountain fee item, where park officials described a proposed price freeze for early-bird passes, a new in-season tier, and modest increases in off-season pricing, while noting operating cost pressures, strong snow conditions, and favorable customer value ratings. That item was adopted unanimously. The committee also approved the Department of Corrections item after discussion of staffing, retirement eligibility, overtime, and recidivism. Commissioner Helen Hanks said retirement-eligible staff had declined slightly, recruitment was improving, overtime hours were down, one housing floor had been closed because of lower population, and the department had reduced reincarceration by 8% over seven years, which she said produced substantial savings. The item was adopted. During informational items, the committee heard a Legislative Budget Assistant performance audit of the New Hampshire Commission for Human Rights. The audit found the commission inefficient and ineffective in processing complaints, with average case closure taking 840 days, significant backlogs dating back decades, expired administrative rules, weak management controls, disorganized and outdated procedures, unreliable data, and unresolved prior audit findings. The audit included 25 recommendations, two of which may require legislative action. Commission staff said they appreciated the recommendations and expected the additional resources from the prior budget cycle to help address the backlog and improve transparency and efficiency.

Transcript Highlights:

• If<00:32:34.960><c> you</c><00:32:35.120><c> would</c><00:32:35.760><c> uh</c><00:32:35.919><c> if</c
• ><00:32:36.159><c> he</c><00:32:36.320><c> would</c><00:32:36.399><c> yield</c><00:32:36.720><c> for<
• &gt;&gt; Senator<00:32:38.399><c> Latz,</c><00:32:38.720><c> will</c><00:32:38.880><c> you</c><00:32:
• </c><00:32:42.880><c> Okay,</c><00:32:43.039><c> I</c><00:32:43.360><c> appreciate</c><00:32:43.679><
• c> of</c><00:32:48.559><c> giving</c><00:32:48.880><c> funds</c><00:32:49.200><c> to</c><00:32:49.360

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Uh<00:32:40.560><c> next</c><00:32:41.040><c> up</c><00:32:41.440><c> we</c><00:32:41.680><c> have</c
• > We<00:32:44.720><c> have</c><00:32:45.280><c> on</c><00:32:45.520><c> Zoom</c> We have on Zoom We have
• on Zoom Hawaii<00:32:47.160><c> Children's</c><00:32:47.560><c> Action</c><00:32:47.880><c> Network<
• &gt;&gt; Hello<00:32:51.040><c> chair,</c><00:32:51.320><c> vice</c><00:32:51.600><c> chair,</c><00:32
• </c><00:32:53.680><c> Uh</c><00:32:53.760><c> again,</c><00:32:54.080><c> Nicole</c><00:32:54.440><c>

Bills: HB1518 , HB1699 , HB1747 , HB1705 , HB1565 , HB1801 , HB1645 , HB2115 , HB2114

Committee: House Human Services & Homelessness

Keywords: HB1518, Hawaii SNAP, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, food stamps, Department of Human Services, DHS, pre-release SNAP, pre-release application process, incarcerated individuals, prisoner reentry, reentry services, formerly incarcerated, jail release, prison release, recidivism, food security, benefits eligibility, controlled substance felony, drug felony, drug conviction

Summary: The committee opened its first meeting of the 2020 session and heard testimony on several measures, beginning with HB 1518, which would allow people incarcerated and nearing release to apply for SNAP benefits before release. The Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation and the Department of Human Services said they support the bill and are already piloting a pre-release application process at two facilities, with plans to expand it. The Attorney General’s Office supported the intent but noted a technical issue: one section of the bill appears to affect TANF as well as SNAP, while the title refers only to SNAP. A wide range of advocates, including Catholic Charities, the Hawaii Public Health Institute, Hawaii Hunger Action Network, Drug Policy Forum of Hawaii, Hawaii Children’s Action Network, ACLU of Hawaii, and others, testified in strong support, emphasizing food insecurity after release, reentry stability, and reduced recidivism. The committee did not take a vote during the hearing. The committee then heard HB 1747, which would direct the Department of Human Services to seek federal waivers or extensions related to restricting certain SNAP purchases, including sugary drinks. DHS said it had already been approved for a narrow demonstration waiver and was working with retailers on implementation, with a target date of August 1. Supporters of the measure argued it would promote healthier choices, while opponents, including Hawaii Appleseed, the Hawaii Public Health Institute, Hawaii Children’s Action Network, and the Hawaii Food Industry Association, said such restrictions are ineffective, stigmatize low-income residents, create burdens for retailers and DHS, and may be difficult to implement. Members asked DHS to clarify the scope of the waiver and confirmed it applies to sugary drinks and beverages containing more than 10 grams of sugar. Finally, the committee took up HB 1705, which would allow licensed mental health counselors to serve as child custody evaluators, but there was no testimony from the relevant agencies and the item was quickly set aside. The committee also heard HB 1565, which would establish a judiciary working group to improve family court processes and legal representation for youth in the child welfare system. The Attorney General’s Office offered minor technical amendments, and supporters from the Office of Wellness and Resilience, High Hopes Hawaii, Hawaii Children’s Action Network, and a social work student described the need for legal representation, citing better reunification and stability outcomes and the importance of youth voice in court proceedings. No votes or final actions were taken in the portion of the meeting provided.

Transcript Highlights:

• c><00:32:17.120><c> wealthy</c><00:32:17.440><c> cabin</c><00:32:17.760><c> owners.
• They<00:32:18.399><c> aren't</c><00:32:18.640><c> going</c><00:32:18.720><c> to</c><00:32:18.799><c>
• <00:32:22.559><c> The</c><00:32:22.880><c> rest</c><00:32:23.039><c> of</c><00:32:23.200><c> the</c><
• 00:32:23.360><c> state</c><00:32:24.320><c> who's</c><00:32:24.640><c> having</c> this?
• ><c> general</c><00:32:26.000><c> purpose</c><00:32:26.320><c> aid</c><00:32:26.720><c> cut.

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Madam Secretary, close the machine. 32 yeas and 3 nays, and the amendments have been concurred in.
• House Concurrent Resolution No. 32 by Representative Baham is a concurrent resolution to urge and request
• Senator Bartholomey, I move to concur in HCR 32, and the machine... Oh, I'm sorry.
• Gotcha, I'm used to concur in HCR 32. And the machine is in favor of yes. Vote, members, vote.
• Madam Secretary, closing, 32 yeas and 1 nay, the conference committee report has been adopted.

Bills: SCR12 , HB221 , HB509 , HCR58 , SB78 , SB25 , SB80 , SB132 , SB155 , SB157 , SB202 , SB228 , SB250 , SB414 , SB433 , SB479 , SB513 , SCR9 , SCR58 , SB65 , SB215 , SB249 , SB269 , SB282 , SB296 , SB323 , SB363 , SB369 , SB474 , SB490 , SB492 , SB500 , SB514 , HCR32 , HB17 , HB41 , HB73 , HB223 , HB244 , HB759 , HB906 , HB966 , HB1006 , HB1009 , HB1086 , HB1107 , HB1112 , HB1215 , HB1242 , SB217 , SB283 , SB469 , HB36 , HB42 , HB74 , HB119 , HB159 , HB259 , HB302 , HB414 , HB459 , HB776 , HB848 , HB956 , HB1017 , HB1028 , HB1095 , SB208 , SB312 , SB382 , SB389 , HB210 , HB258 , HB359 , HB368 , HB468 , HB552 , HB732 , HB784 , HB870 , HB953 , HB1117 , HB1236

Keywords: logging, recognition, John Keith, environment, safety, Mississippi River bridge, Trump Expressway, transportation, federal funding, Louisiana highways, injection wells, public hearing, geologic sequestration, environmental impact, public comment, Ascension Parish, state capitol, economic development, community partnership, celebration day

Summary: The Senate met with 29 members present, heard a prayer and national anthem presentation, and approved the journal without objection. The chamber then received multiple messages from the House on conference committee reports and concurrence actions, and took up a long calendar of Senate resolutions and House/Senate bills returned from the House with amendments. Several resolutions were adopted without objection, including commendations and requests for reports or studies, while others were left over or returned to the calendar. The Senate concurred in or adopted amendments on a series of bills covering registrar compensation (SB 25), broadband administration and reimbursement (SB 80), school safety master key boxes (SB 132), dental coverage for cancer treatment (SB 155), paid parental leave for educators (SB 157), election supervisor compensation days (SB 202), water utility service line replacement funding (SB 228), weight management services through the Office of Group Benefits (SB 250), medical debt protection (SB 414), Medicaid coverage of weight-loss medication (SB 443), and design-build authority for vertiport facilities (SB 513). It also adopted a House concurrent resolution urging backup motors for the St. Claude Avenue Bridge (HCR 32). One bill, SB 479 on removal of certain judges, had its amendments rejected and was sent to conference. The chamber then considered conference committee reports on several measures. Reports were adopted on SB 312 (labor organization dues and fees), SB 208 (veterans services and VA-related restrictions), SB 382 (workers’ compensation advisory council and reimbursement schedule timing), SB 389 (agent and athlete registration and fee review), and multiple House bills including HB 359 (party primary qualifying rules), HB 368 (New Orleans historic preservation lien procedures), HB 468 (wholesale residential real estate definitions), HB 552 (DWI-related responsive verdict language), HB 732 (motor vehicle fines/fees and hybrids), HB 870 and HB 1236 (pharmacy benefit manager and insurance provisions), and HB 1117 (prescription period issues). HB 210 on retroactivity was also adopted after debate. Several conference reports were temporarily passed over or returned to the calendar, including HB 953, and the Senate adjourned to reconvene the next morning for final work.

Transcript Highlights:

• department promulgate rules and regulations, changes the language of proposed law and Revised Statute 32
• department promulgate rules and regulations, changes the language of proposed law and Revised Statute 32
• technical changes to subsections and designations, changes the language of proposed law in Revised Statute 32
• Amendment 16 deletes Revised Statute 32:707 and certain sections and adds that any rules promulgated
• It retains Section 2 and repeals Revised Statute 32:707.2(G).

Summary: The committee first adopted Amendment Set 527 without objection, then adopted Amendment Set 5327, which adds a compliance officer requirement and related qualifications for the Southeast Louisiana Flood Protection Authority. Supporters of Senate Bill 56 argued that the Lafitte levee district lacks sufficient recurring revenue to maintain its system and that the West Bank flood authority could provide professional management, coordination, and financial support. Testimony also raised concerns about governance problems at SLFPA East and about unresolved landowner damage claims tied to prior levee work. The committee reported SB 56 favorably with amendments. The Department of Transportation and Development secretary then gave an update on the agency’s transformation initiatives, including outsourcing, construction process improvements, faster contractor payments, quicker change-order approvals, and higher project delivery rates. The committee next reported Senate Bill 171 favorably, which cleans up language for the recreation, economy, navigation, and transportation authority board, and Senate Bill 252 favorably, which allows driver’s license records to reflect both acceptance and refusal of anatomical gift authorization. Senate Bill 72, dealing with electronic vehicle titles and registration, was amended extensively to modernize OMV processes, require electronic lien and title functions for certain users, and set implementation timelines; it was then reported with amendments. House Bill 939, which would create a Louisiana Vehicle Commission by consolidating the motor vehicle commissions, was amended with a substitute but then voluntarily deferred to allow more stakeholder work. Senate Bill 129, creating a Master Combat Infantry Specialty license plate and adding a special plate provision for designated state officials tied to Supreme Court parking/security concerns, was reported with amendments. Finally, House Resolution 243, urging safety warning signage on the Tickfaw River after a fatal boating accident, was amended to shift responsibility to parish governing authorities and was reported with amendments.

Transcript Highlights:

• Anybody else wishing to testify on HCR 32? Members, any questions? testimony. testimony.
• </c><00:05:08.360><c> Members,</c> wishing to testify on HCR 32?
• Members, wishing to testify on HCR 32? Members, any<00:05:09.000><c> questions?</c> any questions?
• For HCR 32, chair's recommendation is to pass with tech amendments.
• Okay, recommendation on HCR 32 is to send a draft one only—excuse me, Senator Fevella.

Committee: Senate Health and Human Services

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The Senate Health and Human Services Committee met on April 17, 2026, and heard testimony on several concurrent resolutions. HCR 18 would request the Department of Health to convene a hospice working group; the Department testified in opposition, saying its enforcement role created a conflict of interest and that the work exceeded its compliance-focused scope. The measure’s introducer proposed amendments to have a legislator, rather than DOH, chair the group and to remove a date restriction on hospices. The committee later recommended HCR 18 be passed with amendments. HCR 32 sought a plan to increase access to the Hawaii State Hospital for certain mentally ill criminal defendants. The Department of Health Behavioral Health Administration and the governor’s office indicated support or willingness to work on the issue, while the ACLU provided comments and OHA supported the measure. The committee recommended passage with technical amendments. HCR 35, on an audit of the social and financial effects of mandatory insurance coverage for biomarker testing, drew broad support from medical, patient advocacy, and professional organizations, and a surgical oncologist testified in favor, emphasizing the importance of biomarker testing for cancer treatment. The committee recommended passage as is. HCR 105 asked the Hawaii State Center for Nursing to compile recommended safe patient staffing ratios and maintain a repository; the Center said it had already begun the work and was happy to continue, and the committee adopted an amendment changing the focus from “ratios” to “strategies and ratios” before recommending passage. HCR 173 urged Maui Health to work with stakeholders to establish a full-time medical residency program on Maui; testimony supported the idea as a way to formalize and expand an existing informal program and improve local health care access, including maternity care. The committee recommended HCR 173 pass with technical amendments. All recommendations were adopted without objection, and the meeting adjourned.

Transcript Highlights:

• Let's go with ACR 32, Senator Cole. Welcome to the chairman. Members of the committee.
• 32 affirms that eminent domain must be limited to what Idaho law allows.
• I respectfully ask for your support of House Concurrent Resolution 32. Thank you.
• I move to send House Bill Concurrent Resolution 32 to the...
• Send House Concurrent Resolution 32 to the floor with a due-pass recommendation. Second.

Committee: Senate State Affairs

Summary: The Senate State Affairs Committee began by introducing several RSs and then considered a series of gubernatorial reappointments, including Bud Tracy to the State Building Authority, Skip Smeiser to the Idaho Lottery Commission, Jerry Aldape to the Idaho Endowment Fund Investment Board, and Nikaela Black Abrams to the Idaho State Racing Commission. The committee voted to send the latter three appointments to the floor with recommendations for confirmation, while Bud Tracy’s appointment was held for a later vote. The committee also postponed consideration of one item to accommodate scheduling conflicts. The committee then heard and advanced several bills and resolutions. House Bill 795, a cleanup measure related to House Bill 710, was sent to the floor with a due-pass recommendation. Senate Bill 1398, which would move Idaho’s presidential primary to the first Tuesday after the first Monday in May and align it with state primaries, drew support from the Secretary of State, the League of Women Voters, and committee members who emphasized voter access and turnout; it was sent to the floor with a due-pass recommendation. House Concurrent Resolution 32, affirming Idaho’s energy sovereignty and preference for reliable in-state generation and property-rights protections, also advanced on a due-pass motion. The committee next approved House Bill 893, a codifier/technical corrections bill, and House Bill 817, which updates tobacco retail laws to clarify and permit certain adult-only premium cigar retail and event activities while maintaining youth-access restrictions. Testimony on HB 817 came from a small business owner and a trade association representative, and members described it as a small-business measure. House Bill 872, which would eliminate the separate ballot page for constitutional amendments and initiatives to reduce printing costs and streamline ballots, was supported by the Secretary of State and county clerks but opposed by the League of Women Voters; it nevertheless received a due-pass recommendation. Finally, the committee advanced Senate Bill 1397, which would bring larger private wastewater corporations under Public Utilities Commission rate regulation, with supporters arguing it would protect customers from unregulated monopolies and improve oversight. House Bill 831, which would require school polling places to be closed to instructional use on election day to better balance voter access with student safety, also received a due-pass recommendation after testimony from the League of Women Voters, county clerks, and the Secretary of State. The meeting adjourned after all motions passed.

Transcript Highlights:

• :00.320><c> Senate</c><00:32:01.080><c> file</c><00:32:01.559><c> 59</c><00:32:02.240><c> as</c> the
• c><00:32:03.200><c> recommended</c><00:32:03.760><c> to</c><00:32:04.080><c> pass</c><00:32:04.919><c
• pass and reer to<00:32:05.960><c> the</c><00:32:06.080><c> committee</c><00:32:06.519><c> on</c><00:
• 32:06.760><c> Judiciary</c><00:32:07.519><c> thank</c><00:32:07.639><c> you</c> to the committee on Judiciary
• > thank</c><00:32:08.720><c> you</c><00:32:08.840><c> Mr</c><00:32:09.039><c> chair</c><00:32:09.639>

Committee: Senate State and Local Government

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Um, and there<00:32:01.440><c> are</c><00:32:01.519><c> a</c><00:32:01.679><c> couple</c><00:32:01.840
• ><c> questions</c><00:32:02.159><c> that</c><00:32:02.399><c> no</c><00:32:02.640><c> one</c> there are
• c><00:32:03.120><c> have</c><00:32:03.279><c> an</c><00:32:03.519><c> answer</c><00:32:03.760><c> for
• to have an answer for, like for the<00:32:05.120><c> premiums,</c><00:32:05.919><c> how</c><00:32:06.080
• </c><00:32:08.480><c> Have</c><00:32:08.720><c> you</c><00:32:08.880><c> have</c><00:32:09.039><c> any

Keywords: 1189, house, all

Summary: The Health and Human Services Oversight Committee met on April 17 and approved the prior meeting minutes, then set its next meeting for May 29 at 9:30 a.m. Members also discussed a New Futures effort to collect questions about Medicaid changes and post answers as an FAQ, with a preference that the FAQ live on New Futures’ website rather than the state website. The commissioner’s office said it would coordinate responses and that the issue is still evolving. The main presentation was an HHS update focused on the state public health laboratory and its work during Public Health Lab Week. Officials reviewed the lab’s history, its biosafety functions, and its role in disease prevention, food safety, preparedness, and response. They highlighted mosquito surveillance for eastern equine encephalitis, West Nile virus, and Jamestown Canyon virus, noting that the lab tested more than a quarter million mosquitoes last year and that mosquito testing helps provide early warning for local public health decisions. They also discussed rabies testing, saying New Hampshire’s lab is the only one in the state that performs it, that rabies is fatal once symptoms begin, and that the work is preventable through early prophylaxis. Members asked about federal funding cuts, water testing, and whether CDC changes to rabies testing would affect New Hampshire. The department said it had been affected by an $80 million federal clawback but was managing through other funds and staff reassignments; for the water lab, temporary staff had been hired to continue swimming-area testing. Officials said the state remains able to handle rabies testing and that federal changes would mainly affect areas without similar services. They also answered questions on Jamestown Canyon virus, saying New Hampshire had one human case in 2025 and three in 2024, compared with zero West Nile cases in 2025 and one in 2024, and that weather and protective measures influence mosquito-borne disease levels. Additional questions covered biosafety levels, cyanobacteria coordination with the Department of Environmental Services, and the Brown Building flood mitigation, which was described as about halfway complete with a hoped-for reopening of the west side by June.

Transcript Highlights:

• :01.519><c> and</c><00:32:02.519><c> and</c><00:32:02.799><c> efficiently</c><00:32:03.240><c> for</c
• and efficiently for our our taxpayers<00:32:05.360><c> so</c><00:32:05.760><c> uh</c><00:32:05.919><
• your your testimony<00:32:09.120><c> and</c><00:32:09.279><c> presentation</c><00:32:09.760><c> today
• then<00:32:10.240><c> we'll</c><00:32:10.399><c> move</c><00:32:10.600><c> on</c><00:32:10.760><c> to
• Joy's<00:32:12.159><c> Bill</c><00:32:12.440><c> house</c><00:32:12.760><c> file</c><00:32:13.679><c

Bills: HF1167 , HF1242

Committee: House Transportation Finance and Policy

Keywords: Northern Lights Express, NLX, Minneapolis-Duluth rail, passenger rail, intercity passenger rail, high-speed rail, Duluth, Minneapolis, MnDOT, Minnesota Department of Transportation, Metropolitan Council, transportation funding, rail appropriation, general fund, trunk highway fund, rail project cancellation, infrastructure spending, commercial driver training, CDL, financial assistance

Transcript Highlights:

• our Hawaii State Senate Committee on Commerce and Consumer Protection, Tuesday, February 25, 2025, 9:32
• Next measure, last measure on this 9:32 a.m. agenda, is SP 1298 SD1 relating to recycling.
• protection Tuesday February<00:02:14.080><c> 25th</c><00:02:14.879><c> 2025</c><00:02:15.879><c> 9:32
• </c> February 25th 2025 9:32 February 25th 2025 9:32 a.m.<00:02:18.480><c> uh</c><00:02:18.720><c> decisionmaking
• :04:45.080><c> is</c><00:04:45.240><c> s</c><00:04:45.759><c> sp1298</c><00:04:47.199><c> sd1</c> 9:32

Committee: Senate Commerce and Consumer Protection

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The Senate Committee on Commerce and Consumer Protection held decision-making and hearing sessions on February 25, 2025, on several measures. In decision-making, the committee passed with amendments SP 588 SD1, SP 1245 SD1 (pharmacists), SB 1287 (transparency), and SP 1298 SD1 (recycling), generally adopting agency-requested or technical amendments and in several cases pushing the effective date far into the future to keep the bills moving. The committee deferred SP 1149 SD1 and SP 281 SD1 for one day, and indefinitely deferred SP 1286 SD1 on motor vehicles after noting no supportive or opposing testimony and that the Office of Consumer Protection wanted to work further with the introducer. In the later hearing on consumer-protection-related measures, the committee heard testimony on SB 419 (insurance), SB 942 (rental applications), and SB 1142 (insurance proceeds). SB 419 would require auto insurance to cover replacement of a damaged child passenger restraint system; the Attorney General’s office suggested language to avoid contract impairment, and the measure was advanced with amendments. SB 942 would bar landlords from rejecting applicants solely for lack of a recent paycheck if they can show sufficient liquid assets or unearned income; testimony was largely supportive, with Realtors asking for clarifying amendments to protect their fiduciary duties, while a witness opposed those changes as an unnecessary burden on retirees and elders. SB 1142 would impose requirements on mortgage services for disbursing insurance proceeds after damage to residential property; DCCA and the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement supported it, and the committee advanced it with technical amendments and a defective effective date. Across the actions, the committee repeatedly voted to pass measures with amendments, with the chair voting aye and, on SB 942, the vice chair voting with reservations over the Realtors’ amendments. No measures were rejected in the portions provided, and the committee adjourned after adopting the recommendations.

Transcript Highlights:

• The chair lays out Senate Concurrent Resolution 32 and recognizes Senator Hall to explain the resolution
• public testimony is now open. when wishing to speak on, for, or against Senate Concurrent Resolution 32
• Senator Hall moves that Senate Concurrent Resolution 32 be reported favorably to the full Senate.
• horse senator Eckhardt consider Middleton There being six ayes and no nays Senate concurrent resolution 32
• Senator Hall moves that Senate concurrent resolution 32 be recommended and certified for their placement

Bills: SB2232 , SCR1 , SCR6 , SCR15 , SCR27 , SCR32

Committee: Senate Administration

Keywords: Unplug Texas Day, digital detox, family activities, outdoor recreation, community engagement, crossing guard, school crossing guard, crosswalk safety, school safety, student pedestrian safety, traffic safety, elementary school, campus safety, pedestrian awareness, bicycle safety, traffic regulations, commemorative resolution, appreciation day, Texas Legislature, honorary designation

Transcript Highlights:

• The chair lays out Senate concurrent resolution 32 and recognizes Senator Hall to explain the resolution
• Anyone wishing to speak on for or against Senate concurrent Resolution 32.
• Senator Hall moves that Senate concurrent Resolution 32 be reported favorably to the full Senate with
• There being six ayes and no nays, Senate Concurrent Resolution 32 will be reported favorably to the full
• Senator Hall moves that Senate Concurrent Resolution 32 be recommended for and certified for their placement

Committee: Senate Administration

Transcript Highlights:

• Senate Resolution 32 by Senator Love.
• Magnet High School Patriots boys basketball team as the 2026 Class 5A state champions, Senate Resolution 32
• All right, so Senate Bill 2, Department of Finance and Administration; Senate Bill 14, 19, 22, 26, 32
• , 32, or 42.
• Senate Bill 32, by joint budget, an act for the Administrative Office of the Courts, court personnel

Keywords: 1204, all

Transcript Highlights:

• :47.360><c> co-sponsors</c> of co-sponsors of co-sponsors um<00:32:49.840><c> congress</c><00:32:50.399
• ><c> occasionally</c><00:32:50.960><c> you'll</c><00:32:51.360><c> see</c><00:32:51.919><c> um</c> um
• </c><00:32:52.960><c> 400</c> you know 400 you know 400 co-sponsors<00:32:55.360><c> and</c><00:32:55.600
• ><c> then</c><00:32:56.000><c> the</c><00:32:56.320><c> next</c><00:32:56.480><c> time</c><00:32:57.039
• :57.840><c> um</c><00:32:58.159><c> you</c><00:32:58.399><c> know</c><00:32:58.960><c> 15</c><00:32:59.600

Committee: House Legislative Administration

Keywords: 928, house, all

Summary: The committee met in work session to consider amendments to House Bill 1332, which concerns Gold Star-related flag displays. Members discussed two proposed amendments: one would allow the governor to choose to honor Gold Star families by ordering display of the Gold Star flag at the State House and at the State Veterans Cemetery, and another would define the flags covered by the bill as those officially recognized by the federal government. Members debated whether the language should be mandatory or permissive, whether the State House display would trigger broader flag-flying requirements, and whether the veterans cemetery language was necessary. Testimony noted that the Gold Star flag is federally recognized, while the Honor and Remember flag has not been officially recognized by Congress. The committee also took up House Bill 1097, dealing with historic road signs and the committee referral for that bill. Representative Janet Wall explained an amendment changing the bill’s referral from the Joint Legislative Fiscal Committee to the Joint Historic Committee, saying the historic committee is better suited to handle issues involving historic signs and artifacts. She described the Joint Historic Committee’s broader jurisdiction after a prior statutory combination of committees, and members discussed whether that committee has authority beyond the State House complex. Supporters said the change would provide more appropriate oversight and public input on controversial historic markers; one member opposed legislative involvement in removing markers, arguing the issue should remain with existing historical and transportation entities. The amendment was discussed favorably, and members indicated they liked it. No final votes were taken in the portion provided. The committee appeared to set aside the Gold Star amendments for further consideration and moved on after discussion of the historic-signs amendment, with members noting the need to review the written amendment text before acting.

Transcript Highlights:

• busted,</c><00:32:16.240><c> you</c><00:32:16.399><c> know,</c><00:32:16.640><c> and</c><00:32:16.880
• ><c> how</c><00:32:21.679><c> many</c><00:32:21.840><c> of</c><00:32:22.000><c> these</c><00:32:22.559
• um</c><00:32:25.200><c> you</c><00:32:25.440><c> know</c><00:32:26.159><c> individuals?
• Is<00:32:27.919><c> this</c><00:32:28.159><c> true?
• </c><00:32:28.799><c> I</c><00:32:28.960><c> guess</c><00:32:29.120><c> is</c><00:32:29.360><c> my</c

Keywords: 910, house, all

Summary: The committee heard testimony on HB 1588, which would establish a Department of Transportation noise detection program using cameras to enforce noise control laws. DOT supported the measure and said it is already piloting the technology at eight locations, with about 10 sites costing roughly $2 million to $2.5 million to install and operate. The Department of Health said it was willing to work with DOT but noted its current regulations are not designed for vehicular noise sources and that the bill may need clearer standards to be enforceable. Members raised concerns about the lack of a specific decibel threshold and whether the system could accurately identify the source of noise; DOT said the pilot can pinpoint vehicles and that the program would align with existing health standards, but no final number was identified during the hearing. The committee then heard HB 1696, which lowers the minimum age for a commercial driver’s license from 19 to 18 and removes a restriction tied to vehicle category, while requiring DOT rule changes. DOT, the City and County of Honolulu, the Hawaii Transportation Association, Teamsters Local 996, and other stakeholders testified in support. The Hawaii Transportation Association suggested adding a training requirement for drivers ages 18 to 20, proposing at least 320 hours of employer training and recordkeeping. Members sought clarification that the bill would apply to intrastate, not interstate, licensing. For HB 233, the committee considered a measure authorizing DOT to designate airport special district zones statewide to prevent unauthorized access and improve security. DOT and the City and County of Honolulu supported the bill, explaining that defined boundaries would help law enforcement address trespassing, disruptions, fires, theft, harassment, and other incidents around airports and terminals; DOT said commercial airports are ready to implement the proposal, while some general aviation sites would need further work. Members asked about the scope of the boundaries, existing enforcement, and whether the measure would cover state-owned or non-state parcels near airports. The committee also heard HB 2332, which renames the Harbors Division as the Commercial Ports Division and distinguishes “harbor” from “port” in statute. DOT, the Maritime Group, and harbor users supported the bill, saying the change would reduce confusion between commercial cargo/cruise facilities and recreational small boat harbors, and could help with clarity and possibly federal grant competitiveness. Members asked about impacts on small boat harbors and cruise activity, and DOT explained that the bill is aimed at purpose-built commercial ports, not recreational facilities. The committee also took testimony on HB 2283, which clarifies DOT’s consultative role with the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs in setting port pilotage standards and requirements. DOT, DCCA, Matson, the Hawaii Pilots Association, and others supported the measure, saying it would improve coordination and ensure pilot licensing standards reflect operational realities in the harbors. Finally, after a recess, the committee heard HB 2217, which would allow driver’s permits, licenses, and ID cards to include a notation for a non-apparent disability. The Hawaii State Council on Developmental Disabilities opposed the bill as drafted, saying voluntary alternatives such as Smart 911 may be better and that the category is too broad. The Attorney General’s office supported the intent but recommended limiting the notation to medically recognized, specifically defined conditions so agencies can train personnel and avoid confusion or escalation.

Transcript Highlights:

• :00.480><c> on</c><00:32:01.360><c> um</c><00:32:01.519><c> support</c><00:32:01.880><c> staff</c><00
• <00:32:02.639><c> critical</c><00:32:03.120><c> parts</c><00:32:03.360><c> of</c><00:32:03.639><c> this
• parts of this um this entire<00:32:06.320><c> population</c><00:32:06.880><c> but</c><00:32:07.000><
• ><c> we</c><00:32:08.480><c> Bridge</c><00:32:09.000><c> an</c><00:32:09.159><c> individual</c><00:32
• :10.000><c> the</c><00:32:10.120><c> work</c><00:32:10.320><c> with</c><00:32:10.480><c> both</c><00:

Committee: House Education Policy

Keywords: 1183, house

Transcript Highlights:

• :00.559><c> um</c><00:32:00.799><c> to</c><00:32:01.120><c> better</c><00:32:01.360><c> fund</c> reimbursement
• Okay,<00:32:04.799><c> thank</c><00:32:04.880><c> you</c><00:32:05.039><c> very</c><00:32:05.360><c>
• </c><00:32:05.760><c> Next,</c><00:32:06.080><c> we</c><00:32:06.240><c> have</c> Okay, thank you very
• Next, we have Edward<00:32:06.799><c> Chu,</c><00:32:07.120><c> Hawaii</c><00:32:07.519><c> Health</c
• <00:32:09.519><c> in</c><00:32:09.840><c> support.

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The committee opened its Health and Human Services calendar, noted quorum, and first took up HB 194. The chair explained amendments to add an exemption for a person invited by a patient to attend a birth outside an accredited birth facility when no compensation is involved, remove a date reference in section 9, and accept Department of Health amendments. Members raised no objections, and the committee voted to pass HB 194 with amendments. The committee then heard HB 139 on insurance, with the Attorney General flagging possible unlawful delegation issues and suggesting clarifying language, while the Insurance Division stood on written testimony. A number of health organizations and advocates, including HMSA, Hawaii Association of Health Plans, oncology and fertility groups, testified in support. HB 613 on homeless youth drew broad support from state agencies, counties, youth advocates, and community groups; testimony emphasized the need for permanent safe spaces and more attention to unaccompanied minors, with one witness asking for clarity on funding and shelter capacity. HB 71 on a tax credit for family caregivers drew support from AARP, Alzheimer’s and children’s advocates, and several individuals, while the Tax Foundation raised concerns about blank provisions and the cost-effectiveness of administering a small credit. The Department of Taxation said a prior version with a $5,000 nonrefundable credit would have cost the general fund about $397.4 million. HB 716 on health care technology support received strong support from SHPDA, OHIN, and many provider groups, who described it as a one-time investment of roughly $20–25 million to connect rural and neighbor island providers to electronic health records; members questioned how the grant program would be allocated. HB 799 on physician hospital privileges also drew mixed testimony: supporters said it would align Hawaii with updated CMS rules and improve access, especially on Maui, while Maui Health and some members worried it could reduce on-call coverage and hospital safety, leading to discussion of a possible report and sunset date.

Transcript Highlights:

• ><c> or</c><03:32:21.520><c> do</c><03:32:21.760><c> we</c><03:32:22.080><c> want</c><03:32:22.239><c
• </c><03:32:24.000><c> Because</c><03:32:24.319><c> the</c><03:32:24.640><c> truth</c><03:32:24.880><c
• </c><03:32:30.160><c> They</c><03:32:30.399><c> experience</c><03:32:30.880><c> it</c><03:32:31.359><
• </c><03:32:53.840><c> That's</c><03:32:54.080><c> what</c><03:32:54.239><c> energy</c> too long.
• And right<03:32:58.160><c> now,</c><03:32:58.479><c> energy</c><03:32:58.800><c> bills</c><03:32:59.120

Keywords: U.S. House of Representatives Floor Proceedings on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, 1012, house, all