Transcript Highlights:

• District, providing authority to issue bonds.
• To ask questions of the author. Do you yield? No. That's right.
• However, defense-based development authorities currently lack the authority to commission peace officers
• House Bill 3248 addresses this gap by authorizing.
• and transit authorities already possess.

Bills: SB111 , SB128 , SB203 , SB205 , SB261 , SB383 , SB393 , SB397 , SB466 , SB510 , SB705 , SB715 , SB731 , SB748 , SB801 , SB867 , SB876 , SB913 , SB945 , SB946 , SB1013 , SB1071 , SB1086 , SB1087 , SB1181 , SB1250 , SB1285 , SB1373 , SB1400 , SB1444 , SB1483 , SB1528 , SB1553 , SB1556 , SB1581 , SB1586 , SB1608 , SB1698 , SB1730 , SB1835 , SB1858 , SB1903 , SB1946 , SB1950 , SB1986 , SB2017 , SB2043 , SB2056 , SB2058 , SB2063 , SB2082 , SB2105 , SB2133 , SB2137 , SB2177 , SB2203 , SB2260 , SB2311 , SB2334 , SB2337 , SB2340 , SB2403 , SB2417 , SB2446 , SB2452 , SB2460 , SB2519 , SB2532 , SB2565 , SB2611 , SB2619 , SB2622 , SB2633 , SB2637 , SB2655 , SB2681 , SB2688 , SB2713 , SB2717 , SB2764 , SB2781 , SB2782 , SB2790 , SB2794 , SB2797 , SB2841 , SB2847 , SB2857 , SB2878 , SB2891 , SB2943 , SB2955 , SB2959 , SB2972 , SB2995 , SB3037 , SB3047 , SB3057 , SB3059 , HJR2 , HJR99 , HB26 , HB29 , HB136 , HB166 , HB206 , HB353 , HB451 , HB517 , HB1399 , HB1672 , HB2000 , HB2198 , HB2756 , HB3204 , HB3248 , SJR3 , SB5 , SB72 , SB509 , SB616 , SB963 , SB985 , SB1025 , SB1080 , SB1143 , SB1172 , SB1245 , SB1267 , SB1271 , SB1273 , SB1355 , SB1422 , SB1759 , SB1786 , SB2361 , SB1 , SB260 , SB1506 , SB1637 , SCR48 , SB375 , SB410 , SB672 , SB777 , SB1373 , SB1454 , SB1586 , SB1704 , SB1854 , SB1856 , SB2165 , SB2203 , SB2342 , SB2367 , SB2452 , SB2501 , SB2520 , SB2521 , SB2538 , SB2539 , SB2703 , SB2835 , SB2903 , SB2926 , SB2959 , SB2965 , SB3029 , HB22 , HB1392 , HB3093 , HB3096 , HCR6 , HCR12 , HCR29 , HCR50 , HCR55 , HCR56 , HCR58 , HCR70 , HCR71 , HCR74 , HCR78 , HCR80 , HCR107 , HCR116 , HCR117 , SJR36 , SJR50 , SJR63 , SCR12 , SCR39 , SCR48 , SB2023 , SB62 , SB666 , SB847 , SB284 , SB854 , SB1073 , SB810 , SB1505 , SB583 , SB507 , SB1434 , SB1772 , SB2016 , SB1163 , SB1122 , SB731 , SB397 , SB508 , SB1436 , SB287 , SB261 , SB1882 , SB393 , SB1791 , SB209 , SB2429 , SB511 , SB2309 , SB510 , SB1085 , SB1975 , SB2717 , SB1262 , SB636 , SB2056 , SB884 , SB1200 , SB1845 , SB2458 , SB801 , SB3014 , SB3013 , SB758 , SB2797 , SB2076 , SB2876 , SB1640 , SB2538 , SB1449 , SB1181 , SB1359 , SB410 , SB1234 , SB2926 , SB2972 , SB2841 , SB1856 , SB1528 , SB1373 , SB672 , SB2891 , SB1854 , SB317 , SB2539 , SB2532 , SB1250 , SB2082 , SB2203 , SB1285 , SB1454 , SB2520 , SB1237 , SB1586 , SB2819 , SB629 , SB2342 , SB2903 , SB3029 , SB375 , SB777 , SB2367 , SB2703 , SB2608 , SB2965 , SB2521 , SB2165 , SB2501 , SB2452 , SB2835 , SB1602 , SB1704 , SB1723 , SB1858 , SB1946 , SB2009 , SB2177 , SB2460 , SB2785 , SB867 , SB1608 , SB640 , SB1698 , SB705 , SB748 , SB2680 , SB2994 , SB2747 , SB1950 , SB913 , SB1071 , SB1086 , SB1087 , SB1483 , SB1444 , SB1553 , SB1556 , SB1703 , SB2133 , SB2297 , SB2298 , SB2622 , SB2955 , SB3059 , SB2637 , SB2334 , SB1861 , SB2043 , SB1367 , SB2857 , SB128 , SB3058 , SB2044 , SB2363 , SB2311 , SB1986 , SB2565 , SB2943 , SB1888 , SB2417 , SB3048 , SB3052 , SB3053 , SB3036 , SB3057 , SB3056 , SB3043 , SB3037 , SB3050 , SB3063 , SB3047 , SB3035 , SB2446 , SB466 , SB2611 , SB2794 , SB2105 , SB2017 , SB1790 , SB1778 , SB1730 , SB2995 , SB2847 , SB205 , SB2619 , SB1903 , SB203 , SB3061 , SB1581 , SB2600 , SB2799 , SB2790 , SB2688 , SB2515 , SB1230 , SB876 , SB2522 , SB2639 , SB2137 , SB2519 , SB2403 , SB2459 , SB3051 , SB2655 , SB2251 , SB2764 , SB2878 , SB1884 , SB111 , SB582 , SB2617 , SB1835 , SB2751 , SB2959 , SB2063 , SB1400 , SB2058 , SB2260 , SB2928 , SB1310 , HJR99 , HJR2 , HJR1 , HB 1109 , HB1392 , HB22 , HB3093 , HB517 , HB 1130 , HB1689 , HB2018 , HB2884 , HB1393 , HB2730 , HB1399 , HB 1244 , HB467 , HB331 , HB2559 , HB26 , HB166 , HB353 , HB2000 , HB2756 , HB3248 , HB3513 , HB3204 , HB3135 , HB3012 , HB2763 , HB2523 , HB2457 , HB2415 , HB2198 , HB2143 , HB1708 , HB1672 , HB767 , HB1327 , HB2723 , HB451 , HB140 , HB 109 , HB3096 , HB206 , HB 1238 , HB 1089 , HB2890 , HB9 , HB2081 , HB4215 , HB2970 , HCR6 , HCR12 , HCR29 , HCR50 , HCR55 , HCR56 , HCR58 , HCR70 , HCR71 , HCR74 , HCR78 , HCR80 , HCR107 , HCR116 , HCR117 , SB2566 , SB2344 , SB1897 , SB1749 , SB1361 , SB2549 , SB2553 , HB37 , HB1899 , HB3809 , HB334 , HB554 , HB1593 , HB2607 , HB3526 , HB3810 , HB5092 , HB388 , HB2809 , HB 1151 , HB913

Keywords: special education, school districts, legal fees, reporting requirements, transparency, hospital reporting, child abuse, neglect, administrative penalty, medical ethics, child protection, student privacy, numerical class rank, education policy, academic programs, high school, fetal development, health curriculum, public schools, middle school health education

Transcript Highlights:

• to carry a concealed handgun to provide that armed security officers are authorized persons.
• It provides relative authority to the Joint Legislative Committee on the Budget.
• So this was giving authority to OMV to waive some of the flags and penalties.
• Madam Secretary, please open the machine for co-authors.
• Madam Secretary, please open the machine for co-authors. Please close the machine. 12 co-authors.

Bills: SR130 , SR131 , SR132 , SR133 , SCR74 , SCR12 , HB582 , HB221 , HCR74 , HCR58 , HB71 , HB79 , HB158 , HB160 , HB169 , HB227 , HB251 , HB289 , HB330 , HB394 , HB410 , HB429 , HB769 , HB1017 , HB1234 , HB712 , SCR3 , SB54 , SB72 , SB129 , SB164 , SB232 , SB287 , SB322 , SB374 , SB375 , SB386 , SB409 , SB447 , SB458 , SB78 , SB112 , SB124 , SB125 , SB174 , SB190 , SB201 , SB208 , SB236 , SB273 , SB307 , SB347 , SB357 , SB385 , SB387 , SB393 , SB401 , SB415 , SB426 , SB435 , SB487 , SB488 , SB523 , SB222 , SCR9 , SCR58 , SB480 , SB514 , SB35 , SB65 , SB215 , SB246 , SB249 , SB269 , SB282 , SB296 , SB323 , SB363 , SB369 , SB474 , SB490 , SB492 , SB500 , HCR31 , HCR47 , HB362 , HB363 , HB368 , HB377 , HB380 , HB382 , HB386 , HB392 , HB406 , HB431 , HB441 , HB466 , HB503 , HB533 , HB559 , HB575 , HB590 , HB593 , HB618 , HB655 , HB664 , HB685 , HB692 , HB707 , HB715 , HB732 , HB738 , HB741 , HB748 , HB776 , HB807 , HB822 , HB856 , HB860 , HB868 , HB887 , HB888 , HB905 , HB908 , HB961 , HB980 , HB990 , HB992 , HB999 , HB1000 , HB1010 , HB1146 , HB1157 , HB1233 , HB1243 , HB54 , HB137 , HB180 , HB192 , HB310 , HB321 , HB396 , HB512 , HB552 , HB578 , HB638 , HB663 , HB708 , HB717 , HB718 , HB1009 , HB1082 , HB1104 , HB1107 , HB1198 , HB1246 , HB27 , HB143 , HB205 , HB259 , HB267 , HB288 , HB308 , HB403 , HB405 , HB414 , HB417 , HB478 , HB546 , HB548 , HB555 , HB557 , HB609 , HB670 , HB672 , HB740 , HB779 , HB786 , HB796 , HB812 , HB848 , HB915 , HB917 , HB921 , HB930 , HB933 , HB1095 , HB1096 , HB1103 , HB1129 , HB1154 , HB1166 , HB1187 , HB1195 , HB1230 , HB316 , HB511 , HB514 , HB799 , HB1039 , HB17 , HB36 , HB41 , HB47 , HB73 , HB126 , HB133 , HB140 , HB159 , HB166 , HB211 , HB226 , HB271 , HB324 , HB337 , HB351 , HB399 , HB571 , HB723 , HB726 , HB750 , HB759 , HB844 , HB966 , HB1006 , HB1018 , HB1036 , SB29 , SB42 , SB43 , SB217 , SB274 , SB300 , SB379 , SB382 , SB441 , SB449 , HB134 , HB258 , HB359 , HB782 , SB149

Keywords: E. Joseph Savoie, Dr. Savoie, University of Louisiana at Lafayette, UL Lafayette, higher education, Louisiana Board of Regents, commissioner of higher education, president emeritus, Carnegie R1, research university, student financial aid, needs-based aid, community and technical college system, teacher education, hurricane Katrina, hurricane Rita, retirement resolution, commendation, senate resolution, public service

Summary: The Senate convened with 29 members present, opened with prayer by Oren Connor, the Pledge of Allegiance, and a musical performance by the Chuck Wagon Gang. The chamber also recognized several guests and observances, including birthdays for Senators Seabaugh, Fesi, and Price, White Coat Wednesday participants, Tourism Day, the Louisiana Oil Marketers Association, Chenault International Airport’s 40th anniversary, and visiting fair queens from Washington and Tangipahoa parishes. The Senate dispensed with reading the journal and received numerous House and Senate messages, committee reports, and resolutions. Several Senate resolutions were taken up and adopted, including commendations for Isaac Herzenberg, condolences for Kathleen Sessomson and former Senator Louis Lambert Jr., recognition of White Coat Wednesday and Tourism Day, and a study resolution on transfer-on-death and payable-on-death accounts. The Senate also adopted a conference committee report on House Bill 782, which concerned vapor and alternative nicotine products and was described as giving the state more tools to combat illegal vapes. A number of Senate bills returned from the House with amendments were either concurred in or rejected, including SB 54, SB 72, SB 129, SB 164, SB 232, SB 287, SB 374, SB 375, SB 386, SB 409, SB 112, SB 124, SB 125, SB 174, SB 190, SB 207, SB 236, SB 307, SB 357, SB 385, SB 387, SB 458, SB 477, SB 590, SB 593, SB 618, SB 655, SB 692, SB 707, SB 732, SB 738, SB 748, SB 776, SB 807, SB 860, SB 868, SB 887, SB 888, SB 905, and SB 961, with votes generally passing by wide margins. The chamber also considered several House bills on final passage. Among those approved were measures on local security districts, budget review authority, school activity access for virtual students, electronic bid forms, brake equipment and trailer safety, construction management at risk contracts, temporary registration plates, the Louisiana Maritime Academy name change, OMV fee and ID issues, ferry operations, group purchasing for local governments, the Green Envelope Program for drivers with disabilities, OMV field office fees, LED fee updates, port development priorities, workforce instructor capacity, and a campus disciplinary process bill tied to hazing prevention. Some House bills were passed after amendments, while others were passed over or rejected for later conference, including bills on virtual school participation, historic preservation, civil service, suicide prevention, local government training, and economic development districts. The Senate also rejected House amendments on SB 78 and SB 208, and rejected amendments on SB 387, sending those matters toward further negotiation.

Transcript Highlights:

• You tell us in Romans 13 that all authority comes from you, that political rulers should not cause fear
• You tell us to render to all those in authority what is due to them.
• We have a healthy respect for those in authority, such as those in law enforcement, because of their
• Elsewhere, you instruct us to pray and give thanks for all that are in authority.
• The effect of this amendment is to remove the councilmanic authority for the proposed tax increases and

Bills: HB1160 , HB1289 , HB1339 , HB1798 , HB1065 , HB2125 , HB2134 , HB2140 , HB2185 , HB2191 , HB2205 , HB2245 , HB2283 , HB2343 , HB2406 , HB2501 , HB1544 , HB1834 , HB2188 , HB2206 , HB2478 , HJM4012 , HB1104 , HB1152 , HB1254 , HB1443 , HB1982 , HB2006 , HB2297 , HB2322 , HB2329 , HB2379 , HB2388 , HB2399 , HB2462 , HB2495 , HB2544 , HB2551 , HB2636 , HB2192 , HB2262 , HB2298 , HB2351 , HB2401 , HB2442 , HB2593 , HB2661 , HB1496 , HB1898 , HB2095 , HB2157 , HB2225 , HB2311 , HB2325 , HB2552 , HB1343 , HB1634 , HB1707 , HB2361 , HB2389 , HB2410 , HB2468 , HB2521 , HB2619 , HB2720 , HB1295 , HB1591 , HB2092 , HB2168 , HB2176 , HB2248 , HB2255 , HB2281 , HB2438 , HB2590 , HB2610 , HB2650 , HB2685 , HB1526 , HB1960 , HB2236 , HB2364 , HB2416 , HB1073

Keywords: design review, local government, land use, zoning, project permits, housing density, middle housing, affordable housing, parking minimums, single-family zoning, infill development, growth management, comprehensive plan, permit streamlining, objective development regulations, architectural review, administrative review, transit-oriented development, accessory dwelling units, ADU

Summary: The House convened with a quorum, approved the prior day’s minutes, received a Senate message that Senate Bill 5489 had passed the Senate, and then took up several House bills on second and third reading. The main debate centered on Engrossed Substitute House Bill 2442, which would give local governments more flexibility to use certain local tax tools for public health clinics, housing, veterans’ assistance, and related purposes. Members offered and voted on multiple amendments, including proposals to require voter approval for tax increases and to strip out or narrow several tax authorizations; some amendments were adopted, including technical and limiting changes, while others were rejected. The bill ultimately passed the House 53-44. The House then passed Engrossed Substitute House Bill 1295, a literacy bill aimed at expanding evidence-based reading instruction and teacher training. Members described it as a long-overdue effort to improve reading outcomes, with supporters citing low grade-level reading proficiency and the need for scientifically based methods; a technical grammar amendment was adopted, and the bill passed 96-1. The chamber also passed Engrossed Second Substitute House Bill 2636, creating a steering committee and JLARC review process to examine school district regulations and unfunded mandates, with broad support and no opposition in the final vote. Other measures passed included Substitute House Bill 2650, making administrative changes to local tax notification and effective-date procedures, and Second Substitute House Bill 2590, which exempts limited equity cooperatives from certain common-interest-community requirements to support affordable housing. House Bill 2610 also passed, allowing nonprofit housing providers to use property for interim community purposes without losing tax benefits, and Substitute House Bill 2343 passed unanimously to require publicly operated facilities to follow the same water-quality discharge rules as private facilities, prompted by concerns about nitrate contamination linked to a state game farm in Centralia. The House also passed Engrossed Substitute House Bill 2225, regulating AI companion chatbots; amendments added public disclosure of crisis referrals, but a proposal to remove the private right of action failed. The bill passed 69-28 after supporters emphasized child safety and opponents raised concerns about litigation and privacy. The House then adjourned to caucus.

Transcript Highlights:

• The following message from the governor: the secretary will read the message.
• Respectfully submitted, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, to nominations. To nominations.
• President, to ask questions of the author. Does the gentleman yield? Absolutely.
• SB 1197 keeps exceptions for authorized operators... ...unmanned aircraft.
• Questions of the author?

Bills: SJR12 , SJR81 , SCR39 , SB22 , SB32 , SB241 , SB393 , SB414 , SB458 , SB464 , SB568 , SB583 , SB609 , SB660 , SB693 , SB731 , SB732 , SB746 , SB783 , SB785 , SB897 , SB993 , SB996 , SB1008 , SB1029 , SB1035 , SB1036 , SB1120 , SB1122 , SB1147 , SB1163 , SB1188 , SB1197 , SB1209 , SB1227 , SB1245 , SB1267 , SB1307 , SB1321 , SB1332 , SB1386 , SB1394 , SB1396 , SB1470 , SB1494 , SB1537 , SB1596 , SB1598 , SB1610 , SB1664 , SB1814 , SB1822 , SB1841 , SB1948 , SB2065 , SB2155 , SB2406 , SB2407

Keywords: parental rights, education, constitutional amendment, school choice, child education, tax exemption, ad valorem, tangible personal property, income production, border security, southern border, federal immigration policy, illegal immigration, cartels, transnational cartels, fentanyl, drug trafficking, human trafficking, Operation Lone Star, Texas border

Summary: The Senate opened with a quorum call, invocation, approval of routine motions, and the reading of gubernatorial nominations and several honorary resolutions. The chamber adopted resolutions recognizing Jack and Jill of America Day and DJ Daniel Day at the Capitol, with multiple senators offering remarks praising youth leadership, perseverance, and public service. The Senate also introduced the Doctor of the Day and then proceeded to a long series of floor actions on bills. A major focus was Committee Substitute for Senate Bill 568, which overhauls special education funding and services in public schools by moving from a placement-based model to an intensity-based system tied to student needs and IEPs. Senators Bettencourt, Creighton, and Menendez emphasized transparency, parent input, evaluation funding, dyslexia services, and better alignment of funding with actual services; Senator Hinojosa shared a personal story about dyslexia and the importance of early intervention. The bill was advanced on second and third reading and finally passed 30-0. The Senate also passed SB 1396 to prohibit national sex education standards in public schools, SB 2065 on the Texas Emergency Services Retirement System, SB 1664 requiring clearer public disclosure of transmission and distribution utility rate changes, SB 1029 on advertising certain used motor vehicles, SB 1120 expanding rights for family violence victims, SB 1036 regulating residential solar retail transactions, SB 464 creating school-proximity restrictions and penalties for tobacco and vaping sales, SB 1035 giving farmers and ranchers equitable relief from certain local agricultural regulations, SB 1610 addressing civil commitment facility safety and prosecution issues, SB 1197 extending drone restrictions to spaceports, and SB 1386 changing legislative witness immunity from transactional to testimonial immunity. Another major bill was Committee Substitute for Senate Bill 1188, which updates electronic health record requirements. Senator Kolkhorst said the bill builds on Texas medical privacy law by requiring U.S.-based storage of EMR data, prohibiting recording of voter registration status and credit score information, requiring provider verification and disclosure for AI-assisted diagnosis or treatment recommendations, preserving parental access to minors’ records until age 18, and ensuring EMRs can capture metabolic health and biological sex information. A floor amendment clarified the bill’s scope and enforcement, and the bill passed 23-7. Several measures drew debate, especially SB 414 on bond ballot transparency, where Senators Eckhardt and Menendez questioned whether requiring estimated interest and total debt cost on ballots could be misleading or difficult to implement because interest rates and financing terms can change before issuance or over time. The transcript ends during that discussion, with no final action shown on SB 414.

Transcript Highlights:

• Be questions to the author. Questions? See none. Whether to debate? See none.
• If that makes sense, but there's always an appeal authority.
• To staff sergeant would see that the captain would have the authority to recommend that lowering of his
• We have a do pass on the amendment by the authors, seconded by the chair.
• Senator Rader, you're recognized for a question to the author. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

Bills: HB2947 , HB3257 , HB3264 , HB3834 , HB3940 , HB3944 , HB3979 , HB4003 , HB4118 , HB4326 , HB4346 , HB4421

Committee: Senate Appropriations

Keywords: behavioral health, Medicaid expansion, clinical interns, mental health services, licensing requirements, veterans, disability benefits, federal law, Oklahoma Statutes, military service, criminal justice, minimum sentences, parole eligibility, violent crimes, Oklahoma statutes, HB3834, Oklahoma Breakthrough Therapy Act, ibogaine, ibogaine-based therapeutics, ibogaine analogs

Transcript Highlights:

• I would open up a co-author sheet.
• Some of the members have indicated that they want to co-author this legislation. We appreciate it.
• have not said a whole lot to me in the last, I don’t know, whenever the tolls got suspended by the governor
• Office of Multimodal Commerce, and then it should be staffed and funded based on the governor and the

Bills: SB309 , SB457 , SB513 , HB148 , HB149 , HB358 , HB384 , HB428 , HB487 , HB593 , HB613 , HB657 , HB675 , HB712 , HB716 , HB720 , HB723 , HB728 , HB732 , HB845 , HB846 , HB965

Committee: House Transportation, Highways & Public Works

Keywords: driving school, driver education, prelicensing course, motor vehicles, Department of Public Safety, Office of Motor Vehicles, third-party tester, third-party examiner, private driving instructor, license application, consumer protection, course pricing, tuition regulation, administrative rules, transportation committee, construction, management, project delivery, public contracts, legislative approval

Summary: The House Committee on Transportation met on April 22, 2026, with a quorum present and heard several transportation-related bills, many involving license plates, toll exemptions, and administrative changes. The committee first advanced HB 988 by Rep. Bagley, which changes the fee distribution for current and retired legislators’ special prestige license plates so the proceeds support repairs at the Pentagon/first LSU building rather than going to the state. It then heard HB 1001 by Rep. Marcel, designating a portion of U.S. Highway 190 as the Jesse Jackson Memorial Highway; the bill was supported with remarks honoring Jackson’s civil rights legacy, and the committee observed a moment of silence before reporting it favorably without objection. The committee next considered HB 989 by Rep. Boyer, which updates and clarifies fees charged by public license tag agents. Rep. Phelps offered an amendment to exempt Shreveport from the fee increase, but it failed on a roll call vote, and the bill was then reported favorably by a 13-2 vote. HB 1192, also by Rep. Boyer, creating a Louisiana Dental Hygienist Association specialty license plate, was amended to remove a restriction limiting issuance to association members and then passed favorably without objection. HB 1032 by Rep. Wiley, which clarifies the substances referenced in DUI-related motor vehicle statutes, received technical amendments and was reported favorably without objection. The committee also advanced HB 748 by Rep. Brough, exempting Louisiana school board-owned and leased vehicles from tolls on bridges and highways, including the Bell Chasse toll bridge area, after testimony from Plaquemines Parish school officials and the district attorney describing toll costs and operational burdens; the bill was amended to include leased vehicles and then reported favorably without objection. HB 1108 by Rep. Omade creating a homeschool pride specialty plate was also reported favorably without objection after discussion of the plate design and proceeds going to Homeschool Louisiana. Finally, HB 1081 by Chairman Wright, restructuring the Louisiana Ports and Waterways Investment Commission under the Office of Multimodal Commerce and DOTD for administrative support, was amended at the request of the Governor’s Office and reported favorably without objection. The committee adjourned after completing its agenda.

Transcript Highlights:

• Representative Chesson, you have a question for the author? Okay. We have cards.
• And then after four months, they suspended, the governor suspended the tolling.
• Vintrella, do we have your authority to post the substitute bill?
• Representative Henner, is your question for the author or for the testimony?
• Representative Henner, is your question for the author or for the testimony?

Bills: HCR32 , HB493 , HB679 , HB745 , HB896 , HB1000 , HB1024 , HB1050 , HB1159 , HB1172 , HB1173 , HB1207 , HB1208 , HB1218

Committee: House Transportation, Highways & Public Works

Keywords: Saint Claude Avenue Bridge, Port of New Orleans, backup motors, infrastructure, traffic management, expropriation, property rights, Amite River Basin, drainage, East Feliciana Parish, St. Helena Parish, government authority, traumatic brain injury, identification card, law enforcement training, medical verification, disability rights, special permits, transportation, tandem loads

Summary: The House Transportation Committee met on April 21 and considered a series of transportation, licensing, tolling, and public safety measures. It reported favorably House Bill 745, extending special permits for tandem loads hauling containers to and from port facilities; House Bill 1000, a DOTD cleanup bill that clarifies Highway Priority Program reporting and raises the letter-bid contract threshold from $1 million to $3 million; and House Bill 1050, which clarifies commercial driver’s license rules, including age and intrastate/interstate driving limits. The committee also approved House Bill 1172 naming a portion of U.S. Highway 165 in Oberlin the Coulin Brooks Manuel Memorial Highway, House Bill 1218 naming a portion of Louisiana Highway 1090 the Lewis Pat Miramon Memorial Highway, House Concurrent Resolution 32 urging backup motors for the St. Claude Avenue Bridge, and House Bill 1207 on public contracting standards and competition in public bidding. A major portion of the meeting focused on House Bill 896, which responds to tolling issues at the Belle Chasse bridge project. The bill would require toll signage, local toll customer service centers, dispute procedures, and limits on administrative fees, with amendments addressing effective dates, in-person assistance, appeal deadlines, law-enforcement exemptions, and limits on certain charges. The author and witnesses described high administrative fees, long travel distances to customer service locations, and problems with toll bills, while committee members noted the issue was complex and ongoing. The committee reported the bill favorably as amended. The committee also heard House Bill 1159, allowing Jefferson Parish municipalities to use automated speed enforcement devices again under local control. Supporters from Gretna, Westwego, Harahan, and Kenner said photo enforcement reduced crashes, improved safety, and helped limited police resources, while opponents were not emphasized in the transcript. After discussion about whether the measure should be voluntarily or involuntarily deferred, the committee ultimately deferred the bill. House Bill 493, which would prohibit expropriation by the Amite River Basin Drainage and Water Conservation District in East Feliciana and St. Helena Parishes, drew extensive testimony about reservoir fears and local opposition; the committee voluntarily deferred it. House Bill 679, as substituted, created a driver’s license designation for people with brain injuries and required related law-enforcement training; witnesses described personal experiences with brain injury and the need for officers to recognize communication and behavioral effects, and the committee reported the substitute favorably. House Bill 1173, which waives late fees for certain reinstatement-relief payment plans for driver’s licenses, was also reported favorably, and House Bill 1024 creating a Louisiana Democratic Party prestige plate was approved as well.

Transcript Highlights:

• </c> Senator Johnson for helping author Senator Johnson for helping author bills,<00:21:33.440><c> including
• My name is Chris McConn, executive director of the Prairie Lakes Municipal Solid Waste Authority.
• Authorized by the MPCA to use combustor ash in road construction materials.
• </c><00:44:55.200><c> The</c> or the public facilities authority.
• The or the public facilities authority.

Bills: HF4680 , HF4047 , HF4590 , HF3757 , HF3569 , HF4507 , HF4426 , HF4927 , HF4788 , HF4757 , HF4747 , HF3561 , HF4014 , HF4013 , HF4689 , HF4766 , HF4589

Committee: House Capital Investment

Keywords: wastewater treatment, improvements, capital investment, Greenfield, bonds, water treatment, infrastructure, municipal funding, state bonds, public utilities, HF4590, Tamarack, municipal infrastructure, bonding bill, general obligation bonds, Public Facilities Authority, sewer system, collection system, street reconstruction, local infrastructure

Transcript Highlights:

• Will there be questions of the author? What is the will of the committee?
• Senator Brooks, you're recognized for a question to the author. Thank you.
• The author waves. Clerk, will call the roll. Senator Boren.
• Seeing no debate, as the author wishes to close. The author waives. Clerk, will call the roll.
• Does the author wish to debate? The author waives. Clerk, coloro.

Bills: HB1082 , HB1638 , HB3040 , HB3269 , HB3278 , HB3298 , HB3587 , HB3996 , HB4113 , HB4140 , HB4226 , HB4236 , HB4301 , HB4324 , HB4339 , HB4342 , HB4352 , SB1082

Committee: Senate Judiciary

Keywords: child custody, joint custody, best interest of the child, guardian ad litem, domestic violence, substance abuse, Governmental Tort Claims Act, definitions, torts, political subdivisions, governmental immunity, medical providers, sex offenders, safety zones, minors protection, loitering restrictions, criminal penalties, arrest warrant, criminal procedure, telephonic communication

Transcript Highlights:

• Will there be questions of the author? I have a due pass from the chair.
• Will there be questions of the author? Second from Senator Rosino.
• Questions of the author. Vice Chair Galaher came in earlier. Questions of the author.
• Seeing no debate, does the author wish to close? The author waives. Clerk will call the roll.
• Seeing no debate, does the author wish to close? The author waives. Clerk will call the roll.

Bills: HB1082 , HB1638 , HB3040 , HB3269 , HB3278 , HB3298 , HB3587 , HB3996 , HB4113 , HB4140 , HB4226 , HB4236 , HB4301 , HB4324 , HB4339 , HB4342 , HB4352 , SB1082

Committee: Senate Judiciary

Keywords: child custody, joint custody, best interest of the child, guardian ad litem, domestic violence, substance abuse, Governmental Tort Claims Act, definitions, torts, political subdivisions, governmental immunity, medical providers, sex offenders, safety zones, minors protection, loitering restrictions, criminal penalties, arrest warrant, criminal procedure, telephonic communication

Summary: The Senate Judiciary Committee met with a quorum and took up a long series of House bills, hearing brief author presentations and mostly no opposition. Early measures advanced included HB 3040, HB 414, HB 1638, HB 3298, HB 4113, HB 1082, HB 4301, and HB 3269. These bills addressed topics such as firearm theft penalties, county jail public trust eligibility for funding, child interviews in family law cases, voter registration eligibility for convicted felons, a presumption of joint custody, enforcement of VA loan amendatory-clause protections, and electronic transmission of arrest warrants. The committee also advanced HB 3587 on court-ordered outpatient treatment after several questions about how it relates to mental health and criminal proceedings, HB 4226 on judge disqualification procedures, HB 4324 on district attorney authority to adjust sentences, HB 4339 on notice timing in summary administration, and HB 3278 on Open Meeting Act enforcement through consent orders. HB 3996, requiring the indigent defense system to pay for evidence and experts in capital cases, also passed after a motion to restore title. HB 4236, the Uniform Commercial Receivership Act, and HB 4352, the Uniform Mortgage Modification Act, were likewise advanced. One bill drew more extended discussion: HB 4342, which allows prior instances of domestic violence abuse to be admitted as evidence in court proceedings. Senators questioned why propensity evidence would be allowed in domestic violence cases but not property crimes; the author and chair explained it was intended to give the court a fuller picture in domestic violence matters and noted disclosure requirements. The committee also clarified that the bill’s title had a scrivener’s error. HB 4342 ultimately advanced on a 6-1 vote, while the other measures reported in the transcript passed unanimously or with no recorded opposition. The meeting concluded with the chair noting upcoming Judiciary meetings and adjournment.

Transcript Highlights:

• It will be questions of the author, questions of Goodwin.
• Questions of the author, questions of Senator Stewart.
• I just want to commend the author for bringing this bill.
• The questions of the author. I did have a question, senator.
• It questions of the author, questions of the author Saying no questions.

Bills: HB2053 , HB2123 , HB2603 , HB2979 , HB2997 , HB3148 , HB3982 , HB4058 , HB4108 , HB4143 , HB4266

Committee: Senate Aeronautics and Transportation

Keywords: outdoor advertising, transportation, state law, commercial activities, sign regulations, urban areas, turnpike, infrastructure, Oklahoma Turnpike Authority, construction, bridges, motor carriers, public safety, enforcement, Department of Public Safety, Oklahoma Corporation Commission, transition period, roadside investigation, motor vehicle laws, HB2979

Transcript Highlights:

• We'll be questions of the author. Questions of Senator Hall?
• Questions of the author? Questions of Senator Galahar.
• For the questions of the author? damage and all that.
• For the questions of the author? Further questions on the bill? Further questions for the author?
• Questions of the author on the bill?

Bills: HB2053 , HB2123 , HB2603 , HB2979 , HB2997 , HB3148 , HB3982 , HB4058 , HB4108 , HB4143 , HB4266

Committee: Senate Aeronautics and Transportation

Keywords: outdoor advertising, transportation, state law, commercial activities, sign regulations, urban areas, turnpike, infrastructure, Oklahoma Turnpike Authority, construction, bridges, motor carriers, public safety, enforcement, Department of Public Safety, Oklahoma Corporation Commission, transition period, roadside investigation, motor vehicle laws, HB2979

Summary: The Senate Aeronautics and Transportation Committee heard two executive nominations first and advanced both unanimously. Tim Gatz was nominated to serve as Cabinet Secretary for Transportation, with supportive remarks from Senator Paxton and Senator Guthrie about his responsiveness and long service; the committee voted 12-0 to advance him. Justin Blake Wilson was nominated to the Oklahoma Motor Vehicle Commission, introduced by Senator Howard as a banker and entrepreneur interested in public service; he also advanced 12-0. The committee then considered several transportation and motor vehicle bills. House Bill 3982 would give certain commercial fleets a 90-day temporary tag and allow nonresidents 60 days to title and license vehicles in another state; it advanced 12-0. House Bill 2123, a backup measure related to a Tulsa/Jenks/Bixby Arkansas River bridge project aimed at easing congestion and improving safety, also advanced 12-0. House Bill 2979 would allow ODOT to establish school zones on portions of state highways at local request, with ODOT identifying 14 qualifying locations and an estimated cost of $266,000; it passed 12-0. House Bill 2997, a consumer protection bill targeting bait-and-switch practices in retail motor vehicle sales and increasing enforcement staffing, advanced on a 10-2 vote after discussion of raising the maximum fine from $1,000 to $10,000. Other measures approved included House Bill 3148, allowing licensed new and used motor vehicle dealers to perform their own VIN inspections, which passed 12-0; House Bill 4108, adding airport operational areas to the list of critical infrastructure and prohibiting trespass there, which passed 12-0; House Bill 4143, raising the damage threshold for a required written collision report from $300 to $3,000 and allowing no report when parties exchange information, which passed 11-1 amid concerns about fault and insurance verification; House Bill 4266, the omnibus license plate bill, which passed 12-0 with a zero fiscal impact noted; House Bill 2053, clarifying outdoor advertising rules for playgrounds and planned unit developments, which passed 12-0; and House Bill 4058, allowing optional blood type information on driver licenses and ID cards to aid first responders and blood supply efforts, which passed 11-0. The chair closed by thanking members and staff, noting it was likely the committee’s final meeting and his last as chair.

Transcript Highlights:

• Yes, we were providing insurance, and then the part that I asked the author to strike was actually putting

Bills: SB65 , SB444 , SB592 , SB640 , SB1242 , SB1257 , SB1304 , SB1501 , SB1642 , SB1946 , SB2178

Committee: House Alcohol, Tobacco and Controlled Substances

Keywords: SB65, naloxone, Narcan, opioid overdose, overdose reversal, opioid antagonist, emergency opioid antagonist, substance abuse services, harm reduction, public health, overdose prevention, good samaritan, civil immunity, criminal immunity, controlled substances, addiction treatment, fentanyl, opioid crisis, school overdose response, first aid

Summary: The Alcohol, Tobacco, and Controlled Substances committee met to consider a series of Senate bills, most of them advancing with little or no opposition. SB 1304 expanded retailer tasting limits for beer, wine, and liquor samples; after brief discussion about liquor store support and tasting flexibility, it passed. SB 1501, as amended, allowed any approved third-party vendor to provide continuing education for the medical marijuana industry, and SB 1946 initially received a committee substitute but was later rescinded and returned to its original engrossed form as a distillery bill reducing a local distillery license fee from $3,125 to $1,250. SB 592 clarified distributor obligations when replacing products for quality-control reasons, and SB 65 allowed possession and use of Narcan and fentanyl test strips; both passed. The committee also heard SB 1257, which moved THC-related substances into Schedule 1 while keeping dronabinol/Marinol in Schedule 3; members discussed federal alignment, singular/plural wording, and synthetic THC coverage, and the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics stated it had no objection. An amendment was adopted to make the terminology consistent. SB 444 passed to allow certified hospice personnel to destroy narcotics after a patient’s death. SB 640, with a committee substitute, added abandoned marijuana grow facilities to the definition of public nuisance to help local authorities clean them up, and it passed after confirmation that prior distancing language had been removed. Later, SB 2178 was amended to remove language that would have placed liability on employees, leaving ABLE-directed insurance requirements for certain events; the amended bill passed. SB 1242, another bond-bill-related measure, was revised to restore the $2,000 fee and add a requirement that OMA notify law enforcement when a license is terminated, and it advanced. Finally, SB 1642 passed to allow seven-day pain-medication prescriptions to be split into shorter fills, with the author arguing it could reduce addiction risk. The committee adjourned after all recorded votes were taken and several bills were reported out favorably.

Transcript Highlights:

• And let's be clear, 1178 does not expand prescribing authority. I think we've made that clear.
• Governor Brewer, all the way back in 2011, launched the first Alzheimer's Task Force.
• Has the governor vetoed a similar bill to this?
• Madam Chair, Representative Contreras, House Bill 2085 hasn't gone up to the governor yet.
• To the best of your knowledge, has the governor ever vetoed a bill previously—this exact governor, obviously—and

Bills: SB1095 , SB1114 , SB1116 , SB1162 , SB1164 , SB1178 , SB1179 , SB1249 , SB1253 , SB1346 , SB1347 , SB1446 , SB1561 , SB1813

Committee: House Health & Human Services

Keywords: gender transition, minors, irreversible surgery, health professionals, puberty-blocking drugs, medical procedures, prohibition, Arizona Revised Statutes, behavioral health, patient brokering, appropriation, state funds, Maricopa County, claims review, medical necessity, American Indian health program, healthcare regulations, healthcare compliance, behavioral health technicians, licensing

Bills: SB6061 , SB6234 , SB6176 , SB6335 , SB6047 , HB2235 , HB2464 , HB2619 , HB1376 , SB5808 , SB5949 , HB1347 , HB1759 , HB1983 , HB2120 , HB2264 , HB2338 , HB2385 , HB2495 , HB2521 , HB2604 , HB2610 , HB2675 , HB2426

Keywords: tourism, self-supported assessment, funding, statewide promotion, economic development, sewage, grinder pumps, residential buildings, regulation, construction, vehicle registration, enforcement, renewal, transportation, state law, state commission, infrastructure, traffic safety, responsibilities, state capital projects

Summary: The Senate considered Engrossed Second Substitute House Bill 2034, a measure to terminate and restate the LEOFF 1 pension plan and use surplus funds for other state purposes if federal approval is obtained. During debate, senators discussed whether the plan should remain funded at 110% or 120% of actuarial value, whether surplus dollars should instead go to transportation or the budget stabilization account, whether members should receive an additional distribution, and whether local governments should be reimbursed for retiree health care costs. Several amendments were offered: a Gildon amendment to raise the funding target to 120% failed; a technical Robinson amendment adding a date passed; Holy, King, Harris, Schessler, and Conway amendments addressing member distributions, transportation, budget stabilization, local government health care costs, and a reconstituted board distribution all failed; and Robinson’s amendment removing Climate Commitment Act repayment language passed. The Ways and Means striking amendment, as amended, was then adopted. On final passage, supporters argued the bill was actuarially sound, had been reviewed by attorneys, actuaries, the State Investment Board, and the Department of Retirement Systems, and would allow use of excess funding for other state needs. Opponents warned it left too little in the pension fund, should dedicate surplus dollars only to one-time uses, and did not adequately reimburse cities and counties for retiree medical obligations. After debate, the Senate passed E2SHB 2034 by a vote of 25 yeas, 22 nays, with one absent and one excused. Afterward, the Senate returned to Substitute House Bill 2178, which was also passed on final passage by a vote of 39 yeas and 9 nays, with one excused. The chamber then adjourned until the next scheduled meeting.

Transcript Highlights:

• The Health Care Authority provides an estimate of about $608,000 per year.
• This is governor-request legislation. Thanks for the opportunity.
• You've heard us talk over the years about prior authorization.
• This bill continues the work of modernizing prior authorization policies.
• , and the Governor, and must consider input from health care stakeholders.

Bills: SB5420 , SB5877 , SB5868 , SB5109 , SB5832 , SB5922 , SB5944 , SB5988 , SB6065 , SB6103 , SB6151

Committee: House Appropriations

Keywords: veterans, military spouses, service members, uniformed services, National Guard, reservists, active duty, qualifying discharge, veterans preference, hiring preference, public employment, state benefits, license renewal, professional licensing, retirement service credit, pension, public retirement system, Washington RCW, military leave, reemployment rights

Transcript Highlights:

• Passenger Rail Advisory Committee to be composed of delegations appointed by county legislative authorities
• committee include providing information, advice, and recommendations to WSDOT, the Office of the Governor
• , a transit agency, a regional transit authority, the Association of Washington Cities, the Washington
• It sets rail advisory committee member term lengths to three years and grants WSDOT the authority to
• It mandates that WSDOT provide an annual report to the Governor, the transportation committees of the

Bills: HB2092 , HB2114 , HB2172 , HB2251 , HB2374 , HB2410 , HB2552 , HB2588 , HB2718 , HB2722 , HB2727

Committee: House Transportation

Keywords: passenger rail, transportation, committee, advisory, infrastructure, defective license plates, vehicle registration, Department of Licensing, state regulations, route jurisdiction, abandonment, local governance, climate change, commitment act, emission reductions, sustainability, environmental policy, electric bicycles, electric motorcycles, regulation

Transcript Highlights:

• What this bill does is authorize the New Mexico Finance Authority to issue revenue bonds to support capital
• The bonds are repaid using existing tobacco tax revenues already authorized in state statute.
• The bonds are repaid using existing tobacco tax revenues already authorized in state statute.
• The New Mexico Finance Authority has a long track record of prudent bond issuance and oversight.
• by Governor Nathaniel Porter to speak on their behalf.

Bills: SB190 , SB152 , SB77 , SB150 , SB151 , SB156 , SB172 , SB182 , SB185 , SB212 , SB170 , SB133 , SB174 , SB163

Committee: Senate Senate Tax, Business & Transportation

Keywords: cancer treatment, revenue bonds, Gila Regional Medical Center, Nor-Lea General Hospital, healthcare funding, telecommunications, low-income assistance, lifeline, broadband, rural broadband, universal service fund, public regulation commission, PRC, 911 surcharge, telecommunications relay service, VoIP, mobile service, internet affordability, digital equity, digital inclusion

Transcript Highlights:

• Will there be questions of the author on the bill? Seeing none, will there be debate?
• Will there be questions of the author? Seeing none, will there be debate?
• The big questions of the author on the bill to pass from Senator Brooks.
• Will there be questions of the author on the bill? Seeing none, will there be debate?

Bills: SB1303 , SB1343 , SB1435 , SB1438 , SB1444 , SB1641 , SB1765 , SB1916 , SB2067

Committee: Senate Business and Insurance

Keywords: workers' compensation, workers comp, Oklahoma Workers' Compensation Commission, Administrative Workers' Compensation Act, self-insurance guaranty fund, multiple injury trust fund, physician advisory committee, advisory council on workers' compensation, workers' compensation court, insurance, employer liability, self-insured employer, fund transfer, records transfer, agency reorganization, statutory cleanup, technical corrections, Title 85A, SB1343, Vision Plan Contractual Requirements Act

Transcript Highlights:

• Will there be questions of the author on the bill? Seeing none, will there be debate?
• Will there be questions of the author? Seeing none, will there be debate?
• Would there be questions of the author on the bill?
• Will there be questions of the author on the bill? Seeing none, will there be debate?

Bills: SB1303 , SB1343 , SB1435 , SB1438 , SB1444 , SB1641 , SB1765 , SB1916 , SB2067

Committee: Senate Business and Insurance

Keywords: workers' compensation, workers comp, Oklahoma Workers' Compensation Commission, Administrative Workers' Compensation Act, self-insurance guaranty fund, multiple injury trust fund, physician advisory committee, advisory council on workers' compensation, workers' compensation court, insurance, employer liability, self-insured employer, fund transfer, records transfer, agency reorganization, statutory cleanup, technical corrections, Title 85A, SB1343, Vision Plan Contractual Requirements Act

Summary: The Business and Insurance committee met and first announced that several bills—1765, 1916, 1438, and 1444—would be laid over. The committee then considered Senate Bill 1303, which repeals an obsolete workers’ compensation advisory commission that members said is no longer needed after the state moved to a commission-based system; it passed 9-0. Senate Bill 1641 followed, clarifying that annual renewal notices for certain business certifications may be sent to the last known email address of record; it also passed 9-0. The committee then took up Senate Bill 1435, a property insurance measure responding to rising premiums. The author argued it would prohibit insurers from using credit scores in premium rating, citing examples of large rate differences tied to credit rather than driving or property risk. Members questioned whether banning credit scoring would shift costs to other policyholders, but the bill passed 5-3 after the title was struck. Senate Bill 1343, an optometry-related bill intended to ensure vision plan organizations and optometrists follow existing regulatory rules, drew questions about discounts and incentives but was described as not changing the current framework; it passed 8-1. Finally, Senate Bill 2067 was heard to help financial institutions more effectively report suspected financial exploitation of vulnerable adults and share information with Adult Protective Services or law enforcement more quickly. The author said the bill would remove legal barriers and improve scam prevention, especially for older adults. It passed unanimously 9-0. The chair then adjourned the meeting, noting the next meetings would be longer.