Transcript Highlights:

• I went on to school, became a paramedic, which, um, Rep Johnson knows, that's a lot of school.
• And I became a medic and I work as a paramedic to this day.
• We have final say. became a paramedic, which, um, Rep became a paramedic, which, um, Rep Johnson<00:48
• And I became a medic and I work as a paramedic<00:49:09.240> to<00:49:09.359> this<00:49
• paramedic to this day. paramedic to this day.

Keywords: 918, senate, all

Summary: The Legislative Commission on Pensions and Retirement met on April 14, 2026, adopted the April 7 minutes, and then took up Senate File 4464, which the chair said would be laid over after hearing testimony. The bill would restore continued health insurance coverage for police officers and firefighters in the PERA Police and Fire Fund who suffer documented physical duty-related injuries, addressing the current 5-year cap and the loss of coverage at normal retirement eligibility. Senator Hal Hoffman and Senator Hoffman’s testimony emphasized that the bill is a narrow fix for injured public safety workers and not a broader restructuring of retirement benefits. Supporters, including Mike Ladue of Law Enforcement Labor Services, several injured officers, Sheriff Ryan Kruger, and Amber Waldner, described the personal and family impacts of severe line-of-duty injuries and argued that coverage should continue to age 65 so families are not left with uncertainty if injuries worsen or force medical retirement. They said the bill would honor the promise made to public safety workers and provide stability for long-term care needs. One witness, Officer Albert, said the 2025 changes significantly reduced the protection he believed he and his family would have if his injury forced retirement. Anne Finn of the League of Minnesota Cities opposed the bill as drafted, warning that restoring coverage to age 65 for all physical injuries would be fiscally unsustainable without additional state funding. She said the 2025 pension changes were part of a negotiated package, noted that duty disability retirements are common, and argued the employer cost could reach about $500,000 per employee and create significant property tax pressure, especially for smaller communities. She urged the committee to work on a broader solution and said revisiting only one part of the 2025 law would create imbalance.

Transcript Highlights:

• Uh, but yeah, 30 years as a paramedic.
• <03:15:06.800> and<03:15:07.200> I<03:15:07.520> just how I am a paramedic and
• I just how I am a paramedic and I just reertified<03:15:08.560> for<03:15:08.880> my<03
• <03:15:17.040> I but uh yeah, 30 years as a paramedic.
• I but uh yeah, 30 years as a paramedic.

Keywords: 928, house, all

Summary: The committee first took up several liquor-related bills. Senate Bill 24, allowing students under 21 to taste wine in educational settings, drew no opposition or amendment and was reported out 6-0. Senate Bill 79, authorizing self-pour automated systems under the liquor commission, also faced no opposition and was voted ought to pass 6-0. Senate Bill 80, shifting licensing, auditing, and enforcement for wholesale and retail e-cigarette sales to the liquor commission, prompted discussion about whether the change would add cost; members heard that the liquor commission already handles similar enforcement and that the change was meant to address nonreporting. It was voted ought to pass 6-0. The committee then discussed Senate Bill 87, concerning alcohol service in salons, barbershops, and spas. Members and staff focused on how to limit the amount served, whether to require recordkeeping, and privacy concerns about tracking what patrons drank. The discussion settled on removing references to alcohol type and quantity and keeping only patron records, with the understanding that the agency would set the details by rule. The bill was not formally amended at the meeting, but members agreed an amendment would be drafted for the following week; the bill itself was reported ought to pass with that amendment to be determined. Finally, the committee heard testimony on Senate Bill 245, the EMS No Surprises Act and System Stabilization Act. The sponsor, Senator Suprena, said the bill would prohibit balance billing for emergency ambulance calls and unscheduled transfers, while setting reimbursement at either locally set public rates or 325% of Medicare. She explained that the proposal was based on national work on ground ambulance billing and was intended to stabilize struggling EMS providers. Committee members sought clarification that the bill did not eliminate balance billing for non-emergency transfers, and the sponsor confirmed it did not. A second witness, Jerry Stringham, testified in support, citing his reimbursement background.

Transcript Highlights:

• I've been a practicing paramedic in South Texas, with exclusively rural experience for the last 15 years
• I am also a paramedic and have been for about 40 years.
• To train a paramedic, it takes at least a year and costs $2,500 to $3,500, and we're going to ask that
• My name is Carly French, I am the EMS Chief for Seminole EMS and a licensed paramedic.

Bills: SB868, SB1337, SB1371, SB1377, SB1426, SB1620, SB2064, SB2065, SJR4, SJR 4

Keywords: SB 868, rural volunteer fire department assistance program, volunteer fire department assistance fund, Texas Government Code, wildfire, wildland fire, high-risk wildfire area, fire suppression, rural fire departments, volunteer firefighters, emergency response, public safety, grant allocation, appropriations, disaster preparedness, tax penalties, interest calculation, overpayment, tax law, refund process

Transcript Highlights:

• It's safer for the EMTs or the paramedics.
• It's safer for the EMTs or the paramedics.
• It's safer for the EMTs or the paramedics.
• It's safer for the EMTs or the paramedics.
• It's safer for the EMTs or the paramedics.

Keywords: Meeting Start 00:00:00 Kentucky Board of Emergency Medical Services (KBEMS) 00:00:53 Approval of Minutes 00:23:37, 958, all

Summary: The Kentucky Board of EMS presented an additional budget request focused on grant funding for local EMS agencies, not agency operations. Officials said the board has 13 full-time staff after losing employees in the 2022 transition back to state government, and that the request would be a 100% pass-through to providers. They initially described two requests totaling $12.91 million: $10.8 million for the EMS block grant and $2.1 million for workforce education tied to House Bill 484, but later said they would withdraw the $2.1 million request because rural health transformation funding appears likely to cover those education needs. Most of the testimony explained why the EMS block grant should be increased. The board said the grant began in 1980 at about $1.2 million and has remained largely unchanged while EMS costs have risen sharply. They cited higher prices for ambulances, stretchers, and cardiac monitors, along with increased labor and reimbursement pressures. Board members emphasized that modern EMS now provides much more advanced care in the field, especially in rural areas, and argued that equipment such as 12-lead cardiac monitors can significantly improve patient outcomes. They said the current grant provides about $10,000 per county, while the request would raise funding to about $100,000 per county and increase the per-capita amount from roughly 26 cents to $2.60. Members also discussed whether the block grant statute should be reformed to target need more directly. Board officials said they had considered making the grant more competitive, but decided against it for now because many counties rely on the annual funding and shifting money away from some areas would create hardship. In response to questions, they said Kentucky has about 160 class one EMS agencies providing 911 response across 120 counties, and that grant awards in recent years reached 91 counties, then 108, then 110 counties. They also highlighted the cost and safety benefits of power loading systems for stretchers, saying they can reduce back injuries and help retain EMS workers, but are often unaffordable for smaller departments. No votes were taken on the budget request during the hearing. After the testimony and questions, the committee approved the minutes from the prior meeting by motion and second, with no opposition, and then adjourned.

Transcript Highlights:

• Uh, paramedics, EMTs, and firefighters.
• And um brought that bill uh paramedic.
• uh paramedics, EMTs, and providers?"
• > that paramedics.
• There are paramedics that paramedics.

Keywords: 1191, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• authorizing registered nurses and authorizing registered nurses and qualified<01:06:57.920> paramedics
• <01:06:58.960> to<01:06:59.280> administer qualified paramedics to administer qualified
• paramedics to administer medication<01:07:00.400> as<01:07:00.640> part<01:07:00.799><
• clear definition of of paramedics. clear definition of of paramedics.
• because generally this is paramedics because generally this is handled<01:19:24.000> by<01:19

Bills: SB2936, SB2850, SB2851, SB2521

Keywords: accessible parking, disability, kupuna, public accommodations, small business exemptions, Hawaii Revised Statutes, parking permit, blind, deaf, accessibility, deafness, traffic safety, law enforcement, vehicle registration, communication, emergency services, commercial driver's license, first responders, public safety, authorized emergency vehicle

Summary: The committee heard testimony on several health-related bills. HB 1871, establishing a maternal health monitoring pilot program, drew support from the Department of Health, the Hawaii State Commission on Status of Women, and the Hawaii affiliate of the American College of Nurse Midwives, with testimony urging provider-neutral language so midwives and other qualified providers would not be excluded. HB 1977, requiring a maternal and infant health information mobile app, received support from ACNM and Philips, which said similar apps in other states improved awareness of services and helped families navigate care; a member asked the Department of Health about implementation time. HB 1858, relating to certificates of fetal deaths, was supported by the Department of Health and clinicians, who said the current statute is outdated and inconsistent with CDC guidance; the department and a physician testified that the bill should shift documentation responsibilities to physicians and APRNs, and members discussed optional versus mandatory issuance language and whether the bill would improve data on home births and transfers. The committee also heard HB 1591, expanding definitions for preceptor and volunteer-based clinical training to improve income tax credits. The Department of Health supported the measure but preferred a similar, broader bill; Taxation suggested clarifying terms; the University of Hawaii and the State Center for Nursing supported it. ACNM asked that midwifery preceptors and Hawaii-based students enrolled in mainland programs be included, while the Hawaii Public Health Institute supported expansion of the program as a workforce solution. HB 1574, on the health care education loan repayment program, also drew broad support, including from the governor, SHPDA, OHA, and health organizations, but ACNM raised concerns that the bill’s 30% Medicaid-client threshold could exclude many providers and limit participation. For HB 1575, creating a feasibility committee on Parkinson’s patient air transport, the Department of Health supported the intent but said transportation is more likely an insurance or benefit issue and suggested redirecting funds to Parkinson’s research; the Michael J. Fox Foundation and the Hawaii Parkinson Association supported the bill, citing inter-island travel barriers and high costs for patients and caregivers. HB 1854, establishing certification of community behavioral health clinics, was supported by the Department of Health and DHS, which said certification would help clinics qualify for enhanced Medicaid reimbursement and expand access; the Attorney General’s office raised a legal concern about the special fund language and recommended a purpose section, and the committee discussed whether the fund would be self-sustaining and noted a possible amendment to change membership language and reduce the board size if the amendment moved forward.

Transcript Highlights:

• and using epipens as you know<00:17:10.799> EMTs<00:17:11.280> and<00:17:11.439> paramedics
• So<00:17:12.799> would<00:17:13.120> we<00:17:13.439> be know EMTs and paramedics
• So would we be know EMTs and paramedics.
• <00:18:47.840> can<00:18:48.000> do<00:18:48.160> it,<00:18:48.559> paramedics
• <00:18:49.200> can I mean, nurses can do it, paramedics can I mean, nurses can do it, paramedics

Keywords: 1191, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Mobile integrated health is, um, where, uh, people like paramedics or EMTs go to the home and check in
• Mobile integrated health is, um, where, uh, people like paramedics or EMTs go to the home and check in
• Mobile integrated health is, um, where, uh, people like paramedics or EMTs go to the home and check in
• Mobile integrated health is, um, where, uh, people like paramedics or EMTs go to the home and check in
• Mobile integrated health is, um, where, uh, people like paramedics or EMTs go to the home and check in

Keywords: 928, house, all

Summary: The Committee to Study Long-Term Managed Care approved the prior meeting minutes as amended after correcting the first paragraph. The chair then outlined the committee’s plan to produce a preliminary report by October 1, with additional meetings to follow, since some questions remain about the federal One Big Beautiful Bill (OB3) and its effects on Medicaid financing and managed care. The main discussion focused on New Hampshire nursing home funding and how ProShare and MQUIP work. Members reviewed Medicaid rates, supplemental payments, intergovernmental transfers, and the role of federal matching funds. The chair and Mr. Litman concluded that OB3’s phase-down of payments above the Medicare rate likely would not directly eliminate ProShare or MQUIP in New Hampshire, but uncertainty remains about intergovernmental transfers and about how these payments would function if the state moved nursing facilities into managed care. Mr. Litman said managed care would likely require waivers for supplemental payments, and Texas was cited as an example of a state operating under such waivers. The committee also discussed dual eligibles, DNIP, PACE, and the possibility of carving out HCBS from nursing facility services. DHS said its managed care contract would allow the state to use MCOs for DNIP, with the goal of better coordination between Medicaid and Medicare, while PACE would likely require more study and might be more feasible in populated counties. Members also reviewed OB3’s new presumptive eligibility provisions and a state waiver request modeled on Washington’s approach, plus a separate grant for transitioning people from facilities back to the community. The rural health transformation fund was discussed as a possible source for workforce, telehealth, mobile integrated health, and other support investments, but not for direct construction or major building renovation. County representatives emphasized that any county role in PACE or DNIP would require significant vetting, infrastructure, capital investment, and a realistic timeline. The meeting ended with the chair saying the draft report would outline issues and possible alternatives, but not recommendations yet, and the committee adjourned without taking further action.

Transcript Highlights:

• Usually law enforcement grabs it while the paramedic and EMT begin care, so it would be within a minute
• Someone said, I want most paramedics and EMTs and nurses want to be DNRs, if you want to know the truth
• But I was asked by a paramedic who said, 'I'm a DNR.
• My husband's a paramedic. I've seen these situations, but I am confused why you're...”
• “My husband's a paramedic.

Bills: HB2163, HB2256, HB2305, HB2367, HB2369, HB2669, HB2772, HB2916, HCM2007, HCR2004, HR2003

Keywords: lighting laws, construction equipment, farm equipment, vehicle safety, Arizona Revised Statutes, salvage vehicles, insurance claims, abandoned vehicles, salvage auction dealers, vehicle title, towing regulation, private towing carriers, vehicle impound, towing rates, preemption, law enforcement, neighborhood electric vehicles, alternative fuel, vehicle license tax, tax exemption

Summary: The committee first took up HB 2669, which would limit railroad train length to 8,500 feet on main and branch lines in Arizona. The sponsor and several supporters, including a Santa Cruz County fire captain and a BNSF engineer, argued that very long trains create public safety risks by blocking crossings, delaying EMS and fire response, and increasing the consequences of derailments involving hazardous materials. Union Pacific’s witness opposed the bill, saying train length does not cause derailments, that railroads already track crossings and train movement, and that shorter trains would increase congestion and delays. Members debated safety concerns versus interstate commerce and constitutional issues, then advanced the bill on a do-pass recommendation by roll call vote. The committee then considered HB 2369, as amended, which requires certain photo-enforcement citations to be signed by the presiding judge and allows electronic signatures. The sponsor said the bill was prompted by a Mesa issue involving about 40,000 citations that bore the wrong judge’s signature after a judge left the bench. A Mesa representative and a Paradise Valley court director testified that their photo-radar citations already include a judge’s signature, though the practice varies by court. Members discussed whether the requirement should apply only to photo enforcement, whether a designee should be allowed if a judge is unavailable, and whether the bill should be clarified further. The Martinez amendment was adopted, and the bill was returned with a do-pass recommendation. HB 2256, a technical cleanup measure for salvage auction dealers, was then approved. The bill allows a salvage auction dealer to obtain title to a vehicle abandoned after an insurance claim is denied or unpaid, and sets notice and title-release procedures; the amendment refined how an insurance company may request actions regarding a salvage vehicle and payment of storage fees. A CoPart representative said the change would streamline handling of total-loss vehicles when coverage is denied or the owner cannot be located. The committee adopted the amendment and gave the bill a do-pass recommendation. The committee also approved HCM 2007, which urges renaming sections of State Route 69 to honor veterans from five wars, after members discussed adding World War I to the memorial. HB 2772, which would place a pre-hospital medical care directive indicator on driver licenses or ID cards, generated extensive discussion about DNR/advance directive language, first-responder liability, good Samaritan protections, and whether the designation should be handled through a hospital-style advance directive instead. The sponsor said he was willing to work on amendments and broader stakeholder input, and the committee recessed and then held the bill for later consideration. Separately, HCR 2004, which would prohibit photo enforcement systems such as speed and red-light cameras if approved by voters, was heard with strong opposition from Scottsdale Police, who said photo enforcement reduces collisions and serious injuries and should remain a local decision; supporters argued the systems raise due process concerns and do not stop dangerous driving. The transcript ends during that debate, before a final committee action on the resolution.

Transcript Highlights:

• When my grandmother had a heart attack, a paramedic saved her life.
• But Lizzie wants to be a paramedic, and clinicals require vaccinations.
• But Lizzie wants to be a paramedic, and clinicals require vaccinations.
• The U.S. is facing a critical shortage of paramedics. Paramedics are...
• The U.S. is facing a critical shortage of paramedics.

Bills: SB500, SB719, SB912, SB1232, SB1467, SB1777, SB1864, SB2023, SB2119, SB2458

Keywords: SB 500, Texas adoption law, Family Code, DFPS, Department of Family and Protective Services, child-placing agency, prospective adoptive parents, adoption records, confidential information, nondisclosure agreement, child history report, health history, social history, educational history, genetic history, termination of parental rights, permanency plan, single source continuum contractor, privacy, redaction

Summary: The committee first took up several pending bills and reported them favorably: SB 968, SB 636 as substituted, SB 1137, and SB 1138 as substituted. Each was advanced by roll call vote, and the committee also recommended the approved bills for the local and uncontested calendar. The chair then moved to the posted agenda and heard SB 719, a mental health bed-capacity study bill by Senator Eckhart, with a committee substitute that refined the data collection to distinguish state and non-state beds, child and adult beds, include two point-in-time counts, and capture jail diversion data. Testimony on SB 719 was largely supportive from Integral Care, NAMI Texas, and the Children’s Hospital Association of Texas, all of whom said Texas needs better data on inpatient psychiatric capacity, workforce needs, and future demand. Several witnesses described long waits for beds, especially for forensic restoration, and argued the study would help target future investments. Senator Perry and others noted the state has already made major investments in new beds and urged the bill to account for beds already coming online; the committee ultimately withdrew the substitute and left SB 719 pending after public testimony closed. The committee then heard SB 1864, which would allow small egg producers to sell ungraded eggs more broadly, including to restaurants and retailers, with the substitute increasing the weekly sales threshold and addressing sanitation and labeling. Supporters said grading is about size, not safety, and that the bill would help small farms reach new markets; opponents from the Texas Poultry Federation argued grading and candling help identify cracks and defects that can affect safety and quality. The committee adopted the substitute and left the bill pending. It also heard SB 1467, requiring DSHS to share death record information with hospitals for record accuracy and quality review, and SB 912, which would modernize continuing education tracking for health licensing agencies; both bills drew supportive testimony and were left pending. Finally, the committee heard SB 2023, which would create an HHSC grant program to help counties pay for indigent burial costs, with county representatives testifying in support.

Transcript Highlights:

• doulas, uh EMTs, paramedics, etc. doulas, uh EMTs, paramedics, etc.
• a shortage of EMTs and paramedics a shortage of EMTs and paramedics throughout<00:24:36.280>
• What we're looking at there is the really the role of community paramedics.
• The idea here is that a community paramedic would actually facilitate the discharge.
• <00:25:19.160> would here is that a community paramedic would here is that a community paramedic

Keywords: 958, all

Transcript Highlights:

• House Bill 358, an act relating to paramedic education. Representative Stalker.
• <00:13:52.560> act<00:13:52.800> relating<00:13:53.040> to<00:13:53.200> paramedic
• an act relating to paramedic education. an act relating to paramedic education.

Keywords: Convene 00:00 Motions, Petitions, and Communications 00:55 Introduction of New Bills and Resolutions 11:09 Motion to Act on HR 21 15:13 Recess for ConC and Rules Meeting 23:52 ConC and Rules Report 29:29 Adjournment 31:04, 958, all

Summary: The House opened with an invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance, then established a quorum with 96 members present. Routine business followed: absent members were excused, the rules were suspended to allow co-sponsorship and vote modifications, and the journal from January 12, 2026 was approved. No bills were taken up on second reading, and there were no committee reports or orders of the day at that point. During announcements, members recognized the Frederick Douglass High School cheerleading squad for winning a state title, and several members noted visits or upcoming events involving Kentucky firefighters and fire chiefs. Multiple committee meeting notices were also shared, and House Bill 244 was withdrawn by its primary sponsor. The clerk then read a long list of newly filed bills and resolutions covering topics including pharmacist reimbursements, immigration enforcement, housing, identity documents, sex-based classifications, school choking prevention, local minimum wages, rental property, labor standards, wages, veterans issues, homelessness prevention, real property appraisers, jury duty, paramedic education, adult performances, sanctuary policies, charitable gaming, court costs, National Guard benefits, child care coverage, and several resolutions. The chamber then considered House Resolution 21, honoring the victims of the UPS Airlines Flight 2976 crash in Louisville and commending first responders. The sponsor described the crash, named the victims, and detailed the extensive multi-agency response. The House opened the board for additional co-sponsors, observed a moment of silence, and adopted the resolution without objection. Afterward, the House recessed briefly for Committee on Committees and Rules Committee meetings, then received committee referrals for numerous bills to standing committees. No floor amendments were introduced, and the House adjourned until 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 14, 2026.

Transcript Highlights:

• The other one is our paramedic program just moved from Trinity Riverside, and they are in the downtown
• Could you please tell us a little bit about the paramedic program?
• Could you please tell us a little bit about the paramedic program?
• Could you please tell us a little bit about the paramedic program?
• And then the last one, Dakota College downtown with the dental and paramedic, as I said.

Summary: The committee met at Dakota College at Bottineau, approved the January 15, 2026 minutes, and heard an extensive campus update from Dean Corey Gorder and other DCB leaders. Gorder described the college’s affiliation with Minot State and its growing use of shared services, including business office functions, HR, institutional research, Title IX, printing, financial aid support through UND, and payroll support through NDSU. He said the arrangement lets DCB focus on its core mission while relying on system partners for specialized administrative work, and noted that accreditation concerns were not believed to limit those shared-service arrangements. He also highlighted DCB’s mission, enrollment growth, dual-credit reach across rural schools, and the college’s emphasis on nursing, dental, paramedic, farm management, and other workforce-oriented programs. Committee members asked detailed questions about dual credit, program delivery, and whether DCB’s partnerships were exclusive. Gorder said the relationships are generally collaborative rather than exclusive, that schools can choose other providers, and that many partnerships began through personal outreach and ongoing relationships with rural schools. Lisa Johnson of the university system added that transfer complaints are rare and that dual credit generally transfers well within North Dakota, though highly selective out-of-state institutions may treat credits differently. Members also asked about stipends for high school instructors, the share of K-12 versus DCB instructors, and the capacity limits in dental hygiene and other programs. Gorder said dental hygiene is capped by space and staffing, that there were more applicants than seats, and that expansion is being considered; he also said he would provide follow-up information on the paramedic program and instructor breakdowns. Gorder closed by identifying long-term challenges, including aging residence halls, recruiting faculty and staff, and the need to review low-enrollment programs. He said DCB should consider expanding into more high-demand trades such as welding, HVAC, and electrical work, and should streamline dual credit and strengthen its Minot programming. The committee then heard from the North Dakota Student Association, whose leaders outlined student priorities from the last session and the interim. Their main concerns included campus housing quality and affordability, food insecurity and food pantries, mental and physical health resources, student-led research funding, academic and career readiness, internships, and campus collaboration. They also discussed dual credit, saying it is valuable but uneven across the state, and raised questions about how to better retain students in North Dakota through the system. Members asked follow-up questions about housing, transferability of dual credit, and whether incentives could be used to encourage students to stay in-state for higher education.

Transcript Highlights:

• I'm a paramedic. I work in the field.
• <00:25:18.720> I'm<00:25:18.880> a<00:25:19.039> paramedic.
• I'm a paramedic. I work matter myself. I'm a paramedic.
• I’m a paramedic. I’ve been in Pickens County for 36 years on the ambulance.
• ><00:34:51.040> We<00:34:51.280> are At 325% of CMS Medicare rates, we are losing paramedics

Bills: HB185, HB378, SB28, HB400, SB155, HB312, HB185, HB378, SB28, HB400, SB155, HB312

Keywords: appropriation, transportation, judicial system, funding, state budget, Pickens County, local act, vehicle tag fee, registration fee, issuance fee, motor vehicle registration, license plate, replacement tag, transfer tag, renewal fee, county revenue, earmarked funds, ambulance service, emergency medical services, EMS

Transcript Highlights:

• situation, for example, I'll just give our city as an example, our Hayward firefighters are actual paramedics
• , and they receive the large majority of 9-1-1... ...paramedics, and they received the large majority
• become an issue that they are releasing to the public, we are asking for our local, let's say, paramedics
• We want to make sure that both our law enforcement as well as our, you know, paramedics and so forth
• because they are sensitive we want to make sure that both our law enforcement as well as our you know paramedics

Keywords: 988, house, all

Summary: The Assembly Standing Committee on Public Safety heard several bills, with most of the discussion centered on criminal justice, public safety, and detention-related issues. SB 498 by Senator Becker would make prison electronic messaging free and end 15-minute limits on voice calls for incarcerated people; supporters said it would strengthen family ties and rehabilitation, while the bill advanced on a due-pass recommendation. SB 953 by Senator Niello would require DMV points to be recorded when a misdemeanor vehicular manslaughter case is dismissed through diversion; family members of crash victims testified in support, the ACLU opposed it as potentially discouraging diversion, and the committee passed the bill to the Transportation Committee. The committee also heard SB 1306 by Senator Cortese, which would align California law with federal exemptions for certain GBL-containing chemical mixtures used in semiconductor manufacturing. The author and industry witness said the bill would reduce unnecessary regulation without affecting pure GBL, and it passed to Appropriations. SB 941 by Senator Padilla would cap commissary markups in private immigration detention facilities at 35% above vendor cost; supporters described high prices for basic necessities and poor conditions, and the bill advanced on a due-pass vote. Members also considered SB 691 by Senator Wahab, which would require law enforcement body-camera policies to allow EMS personnel to request redaction of recordings before public release when patients are receiving medical or psychological treatment. Supporters framed it as a privacy measure, while sheriffs’ representatives raised concerns about overlap with existing law and local policy discretion; the bill moved forward on a due-pass recommendation. Finally, SB 562 by Senator Ashby would allow partial refunds of bail bond premiums when charges are not filed or are dropped early; supporters called it a fairness measure for low-income families, while bail industry representatives and some others warned it could reduce incentives to post bail and harm small businesses. The bill advanced on a divided vote. Several other items were adopted on consent or pulled by the authors, and the committee adjourned after completing its votes.

Transcript Highlights:

• situation, for example, I'll just give our city as an example, our Hayward firefighters are actual paramedics
• , and they receive the large majority of 9-1-1... ...paramedics, and they received the large majority
• become an issue that they are releasing to the public, we are asking for our local, let's say, paramedics
• We want to make sure that both our law enforcement as well as our, you know, paramedics and so forth
• because they are sensitive we want to make sure that both our law enforcement as well as our you know paramedics

Summary: The Assembly Standing Committee on Public Safety heard several bills, with testimony largely focused on criminal justice, public safety, and detention-related issues. SB 498 by Senator Becker would make electronic messaging free for incarcerated people in CDCR facilities and end 15-minute limits on voice calls; the author and supporters argued it would strengthen family ties and rehabilitation, while no opposition testified. SB 953 by Senator Niello would require two DMV points for misdemeanor vehicular manslaughter cases even when diversion is granted; victims’ family members and law enforcement groups supported it as an accountability measure, while the ACLU and Debt-Free Justice California opposed it, arguing diversion should remain an incentive for rehabilitation and safer roads. The committee also heard SB 1306 by Senator Cortese, which would align state law with federal exemptions for certain GBL-containing chemical mixtures used in semiconductor manufacturing; the author and SEMI said it would reduce unnecessary regulation and protect California’s semiconductor industry, and there was no opposition testimony. Members also considered SB 941 by Senator Padilla, which would cap commissary markups in private immigration detention facilities at 35% above vendor cost. The author and supporters described high prices for basic necessities and poor conditions in private detention centers, while no opposition witnesses appeared. SB 691 by Senator Wahab would require law enforcement body-camera policies to include a process for EMS personnel to request redaction of recordings before public release when patients are receiving medical treatment; supporters said it would protect patient privacy, while the Sheriff’s Association opposed it as duplicative and potentially confusing. SB 562 by Senator Ashby would allow partial refunds of bail bond premiums when charges are not filed or are dropped early; supporters framed it as a fairness measure for low-income families, while bail industry representatives and victims’ advocates warned it could discourage bail agents from posting bonds and could affect domestic violence cases. The committee also took up several additional measures on consent or with no opposition testimony, including AB 2796, SB 891, SB 1012, and SB 1143. After discussion, the committee voted to pass SB 953, SB 1306, and SB 941, and to move SB 498, SB 691, and SB 562 forward as well, with some votes initially held open for absent members. Several bills were pulled by their authors and not heard, including SB 1004, SB 1208, SB 1338, and SB 1401. The meeting concluded with the committee adjourning until the following week.

Transcript Highlights:

• He was not breathing when the paramedics got there.
• we got the kid on the stretcher, started CPR, we were getting him to one of our units when the paramedics
• And us as EMTs, seeing the paramedics, that's like God, right? Because we can only do so much.
• I was just told a few moments ago that our paramedics may have to roll out. They're always on call.

Summary: The Senate received communications from the House listing numerous bills, substitutes, amendments, and concurrent resolutions passed by the House or returned to the Senate, and it also noted a Senate amendment being stricken from House Bill 190. Committee reports were read on a wide range of nominations and bills, including favorable reports on several executive nominations and legislation involving nurse preceptors, voting, agricultural/forestry grants, child care, Title IX coordination, vehicle security devices, dry needling, human remains disposition, child care assistance, autism-related oversight, nursing advancement, correctional oversight, massage and bodywork, probate letters, computer security breaches, automobile insurance, medical debt protection, and technical corrections. The Senate also assigned House Bill 300, House Bill 64, and House Bill 385 to the Finance Committee. The chamber confirmed several gubernatorial nominations by roll call vote, each receiving the required majority: Heidi J. A. Gilmore to the Marijuana Appeals Commission; Lee Wynne and Ruth J. Tucker to the Delaware River and Bay Authority Board; Jennifer R. Hallman and Lindsay E. Alexich to the Professional Standards Board; Jason M. Munion and F. Todd Kulata to the Environmental Appeals Board. The Senate also passed House Substitute 1 for House Bill 383, which changes overtime eligibility for certain DelDOT employees and clarifies covered positions, and Senate Bill 315 with Senate Amendment 1, which revises the Delaware Technical Innovation Program to give the Division of Small Business more flexibility in using federal grant funds. Consent Agenda M passed unanimously, including Senate Substitute 1 for Senate Bill 319 on menopause and perimenopause coverage, House Bill 411 on alcohol/tobacco/marijuana enforcement, House Bill 271 on marijuana establishment spacing, House Bill 258 on alcohol licenses, House Bill 303 on juvenile probation/parole officers and DCYF employees, and House Bill 377 on Ocean View municipal election deadlines. Consent Calendar 63 also passed unanimously, including resolutions recognizing Day of Service, National Adoption Month, National Coaches Day, Free Speech Week, Women’s Equality Day, and Spirit of America 250, along with resolutions encouraging a veteran cemetery in Kent County, seeking plans for repurposing underused public buildings, and honoring Delaware Boys State. The Senate spent significant time on floor remarks about the Boys State delegates and on a tribute to emergency responders who helped save a seven-year-old child trapped by a seatbelt; the responders were recognized individually and thanked for their work. Additional remarks explained the purpose of the menopause coverage bill, the adoption month resolution, the free speech resolution, and the America 250 resolution. The session ended with no further business and the Senate recessed until June 18.

Transcript Highlights:

• in place in rural settings, you could have a pickup truck or a non-transport vehicle that has a paramedic
• access would be very difficult. non-transport vehicle that has a non-transport vehicle that has a paramedic
• :36.000> He<00:06:36.240> can<00:06:36.400> respond<00:06:36.720> to paramedic
• He can respond to paramedic on board.

Bills: SB9, HB400, SB9, HB400

Keywords: Alabama Athletic Commission, Attorney General, criminal penalties, unarmed combat, regulation, boxing, mixed martial arts, civil fines, dental insurance, benefit rollover, healthcare, insurance policy, annual maximum, smoking ban, vaping, public health, indoor air quality, clean air, ambulance services, health insurance

Transcript Highlights:

• So in committee, it was brought up, well, if you're doing this for the EMTs, why not the paramedics?
• So I want to thank my colleague from District 12. ...the paramedics.
• seemed obvious, so I want to thank my colleague from District 12 for her amendment to include the paramedics

Keywords: 1182, all

Summary: The House opened with prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, approval of the prior journal, and several recognitions and proclamations, including a doctor of the day introduction, a thank-you to members who supported care packages for deployed troops, a visit from Mom’s Demand Action, and a proclamation honoring the 205th anniversary of Greek Independence Day. The chamber also announced committee substitutions, bill referrals, and the day’s calendar, then moved into Committee of the Whole to consider measures on the calendar. In Committee of the Whole, the House recommended do pass on Senate Bill 1125, which was described as a response to child welfare and tribal communication issues raised after the Emily Pike tragedy; members noted the Department of Child Safety supported the bill. The committee also adopted an agreed floor amendment to Senate Bill 1193 and recommended it do pass as amended; discussion focused on protecting EMTs and paramedics from disclosure of private information sold through vendors. Senate Bill 1448 was also amended and recommended do pass; the bill would add certain utility, telecommunications, and video service workers to aggravated assault protections when they are engaged in work duties, and members debated whether the protection was appropriately limited to on-duty work situations. The House then adopted the Committee of the Whole report and referred the amended bills to engrossing. In open session, Senate Bill 1023 passed 43-10 and Senate Bill 1211 passed 53-0. The House also received announcements about upcoming committee meetings and a personal privilege proclamation designating April 26 to May 2, 2026, as Arizona Water Professionals Week. The chamber adjourned until 1:15 p.m. on Wednesday, March 25, 2026.

Transcript Highlights:

• They are the nurses, doctors,<00:13:34.160> paramedics,<00:13:34.800> and<00:13:34.959>
• caregivers<00:13:35.839> who doctors, paramedics, and caregivers who doctors, paramedics

Bills: SB2723, HB9

Keywords: law enforcement, State Sheriffs Day, Hawaii, commemoration, public safety, honor sheriffs, HB9, Hawaii Purple Heart state, Purple Heart, Purple Heart recipients, veterans, military, armed forces, service members, combat wounded, war veterans, military honors, state designation, symbolic legislation, honorary designation