Transcript Highlights:

• that goes through some of the the key that goes through some of the the key findings<00:07:04.479
• And I appreciate your answer.
• <00:31:19.120> um chair and I appreciate your answer um chair and I appreciate your answer
• <01:14:53.639> at Industry to take no for an answer at Industry to take no for an answer at
• <01:18:16.920> objectives achieves many of the key objectives achieves many of the key objectives

Keywords: 1183, house

Transcript Highlights:

• And so I am pleading with anyone: answer the call.
• The answer is simple. Lithium batteries and vapes are highly flammable.
• It's 10% of the market, but I don't know if you have a quick answer. I think that's about 10%.
• Thank you, and I am happy to answer any questions. I thank the witness and the author.
• Other benefits include maximizing federal dollars going into accounts because we're eliminating a key

Keywords: 987, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• I'm going to let the bankers answer that specifically.
• “The Attorney General’s office is here, and I think they would probably be better suited to answer that
• Happy to answer any questions. Thank you, Paul. Is there any questions? Senator Flowers.
• I don't really have anything else to cover, but I'm happy to answer any questions.
• I don't really have anything else to cover, but I'm happy to answer any questions. Thank you, Joe.

Keywords: 1204, all

Summary: A joint House-Senate Insurance and Commerce meeting focused on the growing threat of financial fraud in Arkansas, with members hearing from bankers, the Attorney General’s office, the state bank and securities commissioner, the insurance department, AARP, and mortgage industry representatives. Witnesses described fraud as increasingly organized, technology-driven, and often transnational, with common schemes including spoofed bank calls and texts, fake websites and social media impersonations, business email compromise, gift card and wire scams, crypto kiosk fraud, check fraud, and mortgage/real estate fraud. Several witnesses emphasized that seniors are disproportionately targeted and that losses are often underreported because victims feel embarrassed or do not know where to report incidents. Testimony highlighted both state and national responses. Bankers and regulators pointed to Arkansas’s 2025 actions on crypto ATMs and elder-fraud education, including training for gift-card sellers and safe-harbor protections for banks under the Safe AR Act. The Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division described its complaint process, a new financial fraud task force, and examples of recovered funds, including quick recoveries from Bitcoin kiosk scams and wire fraud cases. The American Bankers Association and others urged stronger accountability for telecoms and social media platforms, citing spoofed caller ID, impersonation ads, Section 230 issues, and the need for a national scam-prevention strategy or federal office. Artificial intelligence was identified as a major emerging risk because it can generate convincing scam emails, websites, and impersonation content at scale. Members asked about reporting procedures, whether banks reimburse fraud losses, how crypto affects recoverability, the safety of tap-to-pay versus chip use, and whether public online records contribute to fraud. Witnesses generally advised victims to report scams through the proper channels, avoid clicking links or responding to suspicious messages, and verify requests independently by contacting institutions directly. The committee also heard that banks and regulators are already sharing information and educating consumers, but that more legislative and cross-agency action may be needed. No formal vote or bill action was taken beyond approval of the November 3, 2025 minutes.

Transcript Highlights:

• We would be able to answer those clients.
• But the answer to that is that we do not duplicate services.
• Thank you for answering. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
• Thank you for the answer, and thank you, Mr. Chairman.
• driver of recidivism. key driver of recidivism.

Transcript Highlights:

• I hope that answers your question. Okay, thank you.
• And I'm not looking for an answer today.
• I'm happy to answer any questions.
• It's when she gets an answer. Have they all?
• I'll be happy to answer any questions.

Bills: SB1, SB 1

Keywords: appropriations, budget, state funding, education, healthcare, infrastructure, campground safety, youth camp regulations, flood safety, emergency evacuation, health and safety standards, 1185, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• So I hope that answers your question. So I hope that answers your question. No, it does.
• Same answer, yeah. So my next questions are for Jewish victims.
• Same answer, Section 37, 39.
• Yeah, I would say it's probably the same answer.
• Again, I want all the facts, but it's probably the same answer.

Keywords: 995, all

Summary: The Special Commission on Anti-Semitism met to focus on the role of law enforcement in responding to anti-Semitic incidents. After approving amended minutes, the chair opened with remarks emphasizing that the Commission would confront anti-Semitism from any political direction and outlined the day’s agenda: extremist activity trends, hate-crime statutes, intergovernmental coordination, and security funding. The first presentation came from Ben Pott of the ADL Center on Extremism, who described rising extremist propaganda and anti-Semitic incidents nationally and in Massachusetts, highlighting groups such as NSC-131, GDL, and Patriot Front. He said these groups increasingly use anti-Zionist language, public disruptions, and online platforms to spread hate, and recommended prosecution where possible, civil litigation, education about symbols and tactics, and community reporting to law enforcement and ADL. Assistant District Attorney David Solvin then reviewed federal and Massachusetts hate-crime laws, including federal civil-rights and hate-crime statutes and state provisions for civil-rights violations, assault and battery to intimidate, religious vandalism, terroristic threats, and criminal harassment. He explained that many of these laws enhance penalties based on bias motivation, but some do not create standalone offenses or qualify as dangerousness predicates under current law. Commissioners pressed him on hypothetical fact patterns involving anti-Semitic slurs, symbols, and attacks, as well as on the limits of existing law for pretrial detention and the need for better data collection. Solvin said more training, better reporting, and possible legislative updates could improve enforcement, and he noted pending bills that would require more regular hate-crime reporting and expand protected classes. Detective Lieutenant Ryan Cepiel of the State Police Anti-Terrorism Unit and HART described the unit’s creation in 2023, its role in implementing prior hate-crime task force recommendations, and its work with local, state, federal, and community partners. He said HART has trained civil-rights officers, developed recruit and in-service curricula, created resource pamphlets and a Teams page, and is building a GIS-based reporting portal to improve tracking and victim support. Cepiel reported a year-over-year rise in reported anti-Semitic hate crimes in Massachusetts, while noting that current numbers are incomplete because reporting is inconsistent and there is no mandate for local departments to notify HART. Commissioners discussed underreporting, rural versus eastern Massachusetts coverage, the need for more officers and training, and the importance of making victims feel safe coming forward. The meeting ended with agreement that better data, training, and coordination are needed to address the rise in anti-Semitic hate and bias incidents.

Transcript Highlights:

• So I'm looking at the key hearing issues that's like the first page in your packet.
• For this agency, I'm gonna stay on the key hearing issues.
• And we came up with these key areas that New Mexico is uniquely positioned to win.
• And what you see there are areas where we're already winning in those key sectors.
• So they're a key partner for us.

Keywords: 996, all

Transcript Highlights:

• So, I'm happy to answer any questions that you have.
• Let me answer the question this way.
• The answer to that is we've always been able to recruit students at any age.
• I'm happy to answer any questions. Thank you, Senator Campbell.
• I'll be happy to answer questions. Thank you very much.

Bills: HB322, HB126, HB3062, HB1481, HB2310, HB2674, HB121, HB2243, HB3627, HB1178, HB367, HB5515, HB126, HB121

Keywords: JET Grant Program, career education, technical education, community colleges, technology solutions, high demand jobs, student athletes, name image likeness, compensation, intercollegiate athletics, representation, fentanyl prevention, drug poisoning awareness, higher education, mental health resources, substance abuse education, student policy, communication devices, school regulations, disciplinary measures

Transcript Highlights:

• Or if you can answer that. If you understand, I mean, if we short-... If you can answer that.
• So those are the three key things that are looked at when applications are received.
• Nathan's, Nathan can answer that; I can't, but I think we got one five-mile.
• Chairman, Senator Thomas, short answer, yes, it does.
• Chairman, Senator Thomas, short answer, yes, it does.

Keywords: 908, all

Summary: The committee received a compliance and status update on Industrial Commission programs and the Bank of North Dakota. Staff reviewed appropriations and spending for several Industrial Commission funds and grant programs, including lignite research, oil and gas research, clean sustainable energy, grid resiliency, salt cavern analysis, and the new NDSU research and technology park grant. Members discussed the timing of reimbursements, uncommitted balances, and the structure of the pipeline capacity and enhanced oil recovery funding. The Industrial Commission also reported on its administrative budget, grant management system project, and recent leadership transitions across several agencies. Karen Tyler of the Industrial Commission described active grant rounds and the status of major projects. She said the Clean Sustainable Energy Authority approved three projects in its sixth round, with remaining uncommitted cash and loan capacity still available, though no new funding was appropriated this session. She also said the Oil and Gas Research Council approved six enhanced oil recovery projects and expects additional funding after a federal Department of Energy award replaces one project’s state funding. For grid resiliency grants, she said some projects have been funded, some commitments were returned or reallocated, and some DOE funds remain pending. She also updated the committee on the salt cavern business case study, which replaced an earlier larger development proposal, and on the NDSU research park grant, where the nonmatching portion was paid and the matching portion has moved slowly because the match must be in cash. Ron Ness then gave an extended presentation on enhanced oil recovery and North Dakota oil and gas trends. He said production remains steady, but future growth depends on infrastructure, especially gas takeaway and projects like the Bakken East pipeline. He argued that enhanced oil recovery using CO2, natural gas, surfactants, and other methods could extend Bakken production for decades, but that the state needs more CO2 supply, better storage, and updated tax and regulatory incentives. Members asked about lateral lengths, CO2 availability, pipeline impacts, and the role of the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, and Ness emphasized that the projects are intended to share technical learning across operators and attract follow-on investment. The Bank of North Dakota then presented its compliance report and strategic update. President Don Morgan said the bank’s mission remains to support North Dakota agriculture, commerce, and industry while cooperating with the state’s financial sector. He reviewed the bank’s main business lines: participation lending with community institutions, student loans, disaster lending, mission-based programs, and a new fintech-focused effort. Morgan said deposits are flattening, so the bank is managing balance sheet growth carefully, while still reporting improved net income and strong efficiency. He also introduced Rough Rider Coin as a bank-to-bank payment rail, not a public cryptocurrency, intended to speed and modernize payments within North Dakota’s banking and credit union system. Committee members asked about student loan eligibility, disaster program use, and how credit lines and liquidity would be affected if deposits shrink.

Transcript Highlights:

• And again, you don't have to answer.
• I guess anyone who can answer it, but it was Mr.
• That's really the key here.
• I'm happy to answer that.
• I don't have to answer.

Bills: HB2746, HB2750, HB2765, HB4036

Keywords: trade offices, committee, Arizona commerce authority, stakeholder input, efficiency, Arizona-Sonora, Sonora, Mexico, trade commission, cross-border trade, bilateral trade, international trade, economic development, foreign relations, border economy, investment, infrastructure, business exchange, academic exchange, legislative commission

Summary: The committee first heard a presentation from Berthold Barak Karlich of Benor Capital on investment, innovation, and trade from a European perspective. He argued that legacy is about enabling future generations through open, connected systems rather than isolation, highlighted Austria’s “hidden champion” SMEs and strong education/research base, and said innovation thrives through international collaboration. He also discussed AI and deep tech investment, emphasizing photonic computing and the need to support hardware that enables future AI systems. In response to questions, he said Arizona appears friendly and strong in deep tech and that he will explore opportunities there. The committee then considered HB 2746, which creates a study committee on trade offices under the Arizona Commerce Authority to review existing trade offices, gather stakeholder input, and make recommendations. Members discussed oversight of Arizona’s trade offices in several countries and the need to evaluate effectiveness. The bill passed with a due pass recommendation by a 7-0 vote. HB 2750, which establishes the Arizona-Sonora Trade Commission to improve trade, commerce, and tourism ties with Sonora, Mexico, also passed, with some members expressing interest in further discussion about its relationship to the Arizona-Mexico Commission; it received a 5-1-1 recommendation. The committee next took up HB 4036, a bill regulating compounded GLP-1 weight-loss drugs and related bulk drug substances, including restrictions on sale and distribution, testing and sourcing requirements, advertising disclosures, penalties, and pharmacy board inspection authority. Supporters, including representatives from Novo Nordisk and the Partnership for Safe Medicines, argued the bill addresses unsafe imported ingredients, misleading advertising, and a surge in unregulated compounded weight-loss products. Opponents from the Arizona Pharmacy Association, a compounding pharmacist, and a physician said the bill would burden lawful compounders, raise costs, reduce access, and could affect other legitimate compounded medications. After extensive debate, the motion for a due pass recommendation failed on a 5-5 tie. Finally, the committee heard a strike-everything amendment to HB 2765 creating a vapor product manufacturer licensing framework, fees, penalties, and Department of Revenue oversight aimed at stopping smuggled vape products. The sponsor said the measure was intended to target illegal imports and protect children, while opponents from the Vapor Technology Association and Arizona Innovates argued it would burden lawful businesses and that the real problem is illegal actors and targeted enforcement. The discussion continued with questions about federal law, flavored vape products, and whether the bill would affect compliant manufacturers, but the transcript ends before any final vote on HB 2765.

Transcript Highlights:

• It accomplishes key statewide priorities.
• You've got a packet of key hearing issues. It has a summary of the amendment.
• I'd be happy to answer any questions.
• Key indicators show Inflation has dropped. That's a big one.
• So, I appreciate that answer. Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman. I just want to.

Keywords: 996, all

Transcript Highlights:

• WITH NSF 245 SYSTEMS, THESE MAINLY WERE ORIGINALLY TESTED FOR THE FLORIDA KEYS.
• THEY WERE PART OF THIS STUDY IN THE BIG PINE KEY.
• WHEN YOU SPEAK WITH THE COMMUNITIES THEY KNOW THAT SEWER IS NOT ALWAYS THE ANSWER.
• >> I'M GOING TO ANSWER PHOSPHORUS REDUCTION FIRST.
• ONE OF THE REQUIREMENTS IN THE FLORIDA KEYS -- I'VE BEEN WITH THIS GROUP FOR 20 YEARS.

Keywords: 999, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• In answer to your question committed.
• He said he would answer the first two and then address quality of life.
• And um but I'll answer the community.
• and, candidly, housing is all part of those really key elements.
• With that, I'm happy to answer any questions.

Keywords: 958, all

Summary: The Budget Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Protection, Energy and Environment, and Tourism met for its fourth meeting and approved the February 10 minutes. The committee then heard a presentation from the Cabinet for Economic Development, led by Secretary Jeff Noel, with staff from the cabinet and Kentucky Innovation. The presentation focused on the cabinet’s strategy, including workforce, entrepreneurship, innovation, infrastructure, and placemaking, and emphasized a goal of supporting higher-wage jobs while tailoring programs to urban, non-urban, and rural “heritage communities.” The cabinet reviewed several funding tools and programs, including economic development bond funds, EDF funds, KBI, the Kentucky Innovation Pool, KSTC-related startup and commercialization programs, veteran workforce programs, and Bluegrass State Skills Corporation training funds. Officials said many projects take years to close and that funds are often committed before they are actually disbursed because reimbursements occur after project completion. They also said Kentucky is less competitive than before because of changes in tax policy and that EDF funds are increasingly important to remain competitive with other states. Members asked about whether previously allocated money remained available, whether some funds could be clawed back, and the status of the Blue Oval project. The cabinet said it is oversubscribed, with some committed dollars likely to go unused and be reoffered to other projects. On Blue Oval, officials said progress had been made and described negotiations tied to repayment and job creation requirements. They also discussed the Ford/SK loan structure, saying the companies may assume the full $250 million obligation and that repayments would be required if job targets are not met. The presentation closed with discussion of workforce coordination and the need to connect economic development projects with training and support systems, including possible ripple effects for rural suppliers and related businesses.

Transcript Highlights:

• I'm happy to answer any questions. Members, any questions for the witness?
• So anyways, I'll be happy to answer any questions. I appreciate your time.
• One of the key functions of these Municipal Utility Districts...
• I'm happy to answer any questions. Members, any questions? Go ahead.
• I'm happy... ...I'm happy to answer any questions.

Bills: HB447, HB897, HB993, HB2673, HB3671, HB3680, HB3897, HB4506, HB4753, HB4812, HB4894, HB5148, HB5437, HB5650, HB5652, HB5654, HB5656, HB5661, HB5665

Keywords: traffic impact studies, municipal utility district, bonds, road projects, eminent domain, HB 897, Texas land sale, state property, Austin real estate, Travis County, General Land Office, Texas State Library and Archives Commission, HHSC, Health and Human Services Commission, state records facility, archives building, library funding, capital improvements, lease of state land, public land disposition

Transcript Highlights:

• Thank you for answering two of the questions I was ready to ask, which, Max, you answered: why isn't
• I can answer that briefly now, or I’ve submitted some written testimony that answers that, and I’m having
• So, okay, I appreciate your answer.
• And the answer is, I hope nobody.
• I'm not getting the answers I expect.

Keywords: 995, all

Summary: The Joint Committee on Education held a very full public hearing on the first Education Committee hearing of the session, with testimony taken on a large slate of bills, especially H. 650/S. 436 and related measures. The chairs explained the hearing rules, including two-minute testimony limits, live streaming, written testimony, and accommodations for interpreters and disabilities. The committee first heard extensive testimony on H. 460/S. 436 and later H. 650/S. 436, bills to affirm and maintain equal access to public education for all children, including immigrant students, English learners, and students with disabilities. Witnesses included parents, advocates, educators, attorneys, and state officials, many of whom described fears caused by federal policy changes and argued that Massachusetts should codify protections for school enrollment, special education, interpreter services, and due process in discipline cases. The Attorney General’s office, Mass Advocates for Children, Lawyers for Civil Rights, MIRA, the Children’s Law Center, the Disability Law/advocacy community, and others all urged favorable action, while committee members asked questions about Plyler v. Doe, manifestation determinations, interpreter qualifications, and how the bill would mirror or preserve existing federal protections at the state level. The committee also heard testimony on H. 702/S. 460, establishing an elementary and secondary school robotics grant program, which was supported as a way to expand STEM opportunities and help schools fund robotics programs. Representative Sweeney also testified on H. 713, a bill to support student participation in 4-H programming by allowing excused absences similar to those for athletics and other sanctioned activities; members noted bipartisan support and the bill’s long history. The hearing then moved to H. 543/S. 417, a recess bill requiring at least 30 minutes of free-play recess for K-8 students. Supporters included the Massachusetts Teachers Association, the League of Women Voters, educators, and parents, who emphasized recess as important for physical health, social-emotional development, attention, and academic performance, and noted that unequal local policies create disparities across districts. Several witnesses also tied recess to broader concerns about student well-being and screen time. No votes were taken during the hearing; the committee simply received testimony and closed testimony on the bills as it moved through the agenda.

Transcript Highlights:

• And the answer right now is no.
• She can answer any CA RISE-related questions. She can answer any CA RISE-related questions.
• You'll have that money that you can use to shore up key priorities and key programs.
• Yeah, I can answer it.
• That's inclusive, though, of Basic Home, Key, Cal Home, and IIG.

Keywords: 988, house, all

Summary: The committee heard a series of May Revision budget items, beginning with the State Controller’s Office. SCO described requests for Fiscal Book of Record stabilization, payroll system implementation, ACFR reporting support, and unclaimed property outreach funding. Members focused on the Fiscal system’s July go-live, the improved timeliness of the ACFR, and the unclaimed property program’s roughly $15 billion balance and outreach efforts. The Department of Finance and LAO raised no major concerns, and the item was closed after discussion of how the new outreach funding would be used. The committee then considered several revenue proposals. Finance presented a proposal to tax pre-written digital software and SaaS, with estimated General Fund gains of $450 million in 2026-27 and $900 million ongoing; LAO suggested broader digital tax changes and a business-use exemption, while industry groups opposed the measure as a tax on essential digital tools. CDTFA also presented an administrative request tied to the software tax, and later a $10 million budget reduction reflecting lower operational needs. The committee then heard a federal conformity proposal for new children’s tax-deferred accounts, which LAO supported, and a proposal to cut the first-year LLC/LP minimum tax from $800 to $400, which Finance said would aid small business formation but LAO argued was poorly targeted and would reduce revenue. Another major item was a permanent business tax credit limitation beginning in 2027, capping credits at the greater of $5 million per corporation or 50% of pre-credit liability. Finance said it would raise about $850 million in 2026-27 and more in later years, while LAO noted it would mainly affect large firms using the R&D credit and could also touch California Competes and other programs. Public testimony split sharply between business groups opposing the cap and advocates supporting it as a progressive revenue measure. The committee also heard FTB’s CalFile realignment proposal, which would retain a smaller staff to continue improving the free filing system and return most of the prior funding to the General Fund. The hearing concluded with the California Arts Council’s request to reauthorize the Keep Arts in Schools voluntary contribution fund, which brings in about $221,000 to $266,000 annually for arts grants and teacher stipends. Members and advocates supported the item but also urged larger arts funding, including the Performing Arts Equitable Payroll Fund. The Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development then presented proposals for the California Civic Media Program, CA RISE reappropriation, and a reversion of unused Chips for America facility funds; LAO supported the latter two but was cautious about new civic media spending. Members raised concerns about the civic media program’s scope, including the exclusion of broadcast and the lack of a specific ethnic media set-aside, while GoBiz said funds would begin going out in the fall if approved.

Transcript Highlights:

• There is Lantana Old Key Lime House, a historic restaurant, possibly the oldest in the state. Rep.
• Skidmore: Thank you for the answer. Old Key Lime House is a great restaurant.
• Gossett Seidman: ...that the Old Key Lime House situation doesn't occur, that they can provide proof
• Gonzalez Pittman: I will let my prime co-sponsor answer that. Chair: You are recognized. Rep.
• Vice Chair Mooney: I don't know the answer to that.

Transcript Highlights:

• for how to answer your question, sir.
• Pei is available to answer questions as well.
• Your answers. Thank you.
• Thank you for your answers and assurances.
• In other words, they don't answer a lot of those uncertainties.

Transcript Highlights:

• Thank you very much, and happy to answer any questions. Thank you very much.
• Primarily the biggest portion is for funds to update the public safety answering points.
• Primarily the biggest portion is for funds to update the public safety answering points.
• Primarily the biggest portion is for funds to update the public safety answering points.
• Can you answer me, as you said, that we were saving more money, how that actually reflects?

Summary: The Assembly Budget Committee met to consider the final three-party agreement for the 2026-27 state budget and 19 implementing bills, including two budget bill juniors and 17 trailer bills. Committee leadership and administration officials described the budget as a balanced plan that reduces out-year structural deficits, maintains large reserves, and makes major investments in health care, education, housing, child care, public safety, and other core services while also responding to expected federal cuts and fiscal uncertainty. The Department of Finance outlined the package’s major components, including Medi-Cal adjustments, education funding increases, higher education changes, child care and human services updates, housing and homelessness funding, energy and transportation provisions, and tax and general government changes. Members asked questions about several provisions, including CSU enrollment targets and turnaround plans, the Prop. 98 settle-up mechanism, the plastics market development payment program, housing accountability measures, NextGen 9-1-1 implementation, and veteran services. Staff and administration witnesses explained that the higher education language is intended to improve campus-by-campus reporting and oversight, that Prop. 98 settle-up would be finalized later through the statutory certification process, and that NextGen 9-1-1 now includes one-time funding, quarterly reporting, an independent technical review, and a state audit. Members also discussed the HAP homelessness funding increase to $900 million and the balance between accountability and timely distribution of funds. The most extended exchange centered on comparisons between funding for veterans and Medi-Cal/immigrant health coverage. Republican members argued the budget spends far more on undocumented immigrant services than on veterans, while Democratic members and Finance staff responded that the comparison was misleading because many veterans’ services are federally funded and the state budget also includes dedicated veteran support. The chair and other members emphasized that the budget reflects difficult tradeoffs and that the package protects vulnerable populations, preserves health care access, and advances affordability. No final vote was described in the excerpt, but members indicated support for the overall package and said they would support it on the floor.

Transcript Highlights:

• Happy to answer any questions.
• Happy to answer any questions.
• Happy to answer any questions.
• So again, conversation is key.
• Director um and I don't know the answer Director um and I don't know the answer to<01:30:11.920>

Keywords: 1189, house, all