Transcript Highlights:

• immediately preceding fiscal year for determining the number of exempt positions that are permissible under chapter
• immediately preceding fiscal year for determining the number of exempt positions that are permissible under chapter
• immediately preceding fiscal year for determining the number of exempt positions that are permissible under chapter
• immediately preceding fiscal year for determining the number of exempt positions that are permissible under chapter
• immediately preceding fiscal year for determining the number of exempt positions that are permissible under chapter

Keywords: Meeting Start 00:00:00 Attendance Roll Call 00:00:54 Pension System Update 00:03:38, 958, all

Summary: The committee held its first official interim meeting after merging the General Government and Finance, Personnel, and Public Retirement committees, establishing a quorum and opening with the pledge and prayer. Members then received a briefing from KPPA representatives Ryan Barrow and Aaron Sarock on the state retirement systems, including KERS, CERS, and SPRS, and on the importance of fully funding the actuarially determined employer contribution, supplemental appropriations, and investment earnings in reducing unfunded liabilities. They said the systems have made progress toward a statutory closed amortization target of 2049 and emphasized that supplemental funding lowers current employer contribution rates but does not change that end date. A major topic was federal and state reemployment-after-retirement rules for retirees who return to work with participating employers. KPPA explained that retirees must have a bona fide separation from service, no prearranged agreement to return, and generally a one-calendar-month break in service for retirees on or after January 1, 2024. If a member fails to comply, retirement benefits can be voided, payments stopped, health coverage ended, and benefits repaid. The presenters also noted that rehired retirees do not earn a second retirement account, and employers rehiring them must pay employer contributions and, in non-exempt cases, reimburse health insurance costs. Members asked about the scale of rehired retirees and the difference between employer contribution and health insurance reimbursement amounts. KPPA said that in fiscal year 2025 there were over 3,500 rehired retirees in CERS and over 5,000 in SPRS, with substantial employer contributions and health reimbursement payments collected. They also explained that some positions are exempt from these chargebacks, including school resource officers and certain law enforcement positions that meet statutory criteria. The committee discussed House Bill 213, which allows cities, sheriffs’ departments, and post-secondary institutions to offer health insurance to rehired officers if authorized by the governing body, effective August 1, 2026, and clarifies the fiscal-year basis for certain exemption limits. No votes were taken.

Transcript Highlights:

• domestic violence against an individual in a relationship and is not otherwise prohibited in this chapter
• domestic violence against an individual in a relationship and is not otherwise prohibited in this chapter
• domestic violence against an individual in a relationship and is not otherwise prohibited in this chapter
• 00:09:45.440> prohibited<00:09:45.920> in<00:09:46.160> this<00:09:46.320> chapter
• , otherwise prohibited in this chapter, otherwise prohibited in this chapter, the<00:09:47.279>

Keywords: 1183, house

Transcript Highlights:

• I see New Mexico chapter leadership. Would you unmute?
• I am the Legislative Chair for the New Mexico Chapter of the American Physical Therapy Association.
• All right, will you try again, New Mexico chapter leadership?
• I'm the Legislative Chair of the New Mexico Chapter of the American Physical Therapy Association.
• The New Mexico chapter is in support. Thank you.

Transcript Highlights:

• including a writ of..." ...prohibition that could pronounce any provision or application of this chapter
• agent of this state or political subdivision from enforcing any provision or application of this chapter
• It says, "Construction of the Chapter.
• This chapter may not be construed to prevent a litigant from asserting the invalidity or unconstitutionality
• ..." ...of a provision or application of this chapter as a defense to liability.

Bills: SB15, SB9, SB7, SB1, SB2, SB67, SB15, SB9, SB7

Keywords: real property, fraud, theft, elderly, disabled, statute of limitations, criminal offense, property rights, property tax, ad valorem tax, voter-approval tax rate, no-new-revenue tax rate, tax rate calculation, Tax Code, local government finance, municipality, county, special taxing unit, sales and use tax, property tax cap

Transcript Highlights:

• any other law, this section applies only, only to that first section is basic coverage plan under Chapter
• That's ERS employees, uh, uh, Section 2 of their line six basic plan under Chapter 1575.
• Uh, part three, primary care coverage plan under Chapter 1579, that is TRA TRS retired employees and
• line 9, or number 4, I'm sorry, not section number 4, a plan providing basic coverage under chap Chapter
• By integrating this offense into chapter 13A, House Bill 272 strengthens our legal tools.

Bills: HB201, HB272

Keywords: disabled veteran, partially disabled veteran, veterans property tax exemption, homestead exemption, ad valorem tax, property tax relief, surviving spouse, appraisal district, Tax Code, local government revenue, homestead portability, service-connected disability, veteran benefits, Texas property tax, residence homestead, disability rating, disaster response, financial assistance, helicopter, municipalities

Transcript Highlights:

• It is time the world heard it not as a footnote in history but as a chapter that shaped the outcome of
• that shaped the outcome but as a chapter that shaped the outcome of<00:10:54.800> a<00:10:54.959
• It creates a new definition in chapter 197 for veterans, which is the veterans of the secret war in Laos
• It creates a new definition of chapter<00:15:00.160> 17<00:15:00.480> uh<00:15:00.800><
• 17 uh 197 uh for veterans which chapter 17 uh 197 uh for veterans which is<00:15:02.560> the<

Keywords: 919, house, all

Summary: Minnesota lawmakers and advocates discussed House File 2444, a veterans and military affairs bill to formally recognize Special Guerrilla Unit (SGU) veterans who fought alongside U.S. forces in Laos during the secret war from 1961 to 1975. Speakers, including Rep. Ethan Cha and other veterans and family members, said the measure is long overdue and framed it as both a symbolic and practical step to restore dignity, honor, and veteran status to Hmong, Lao, and other ethnic minority veterans whose service had not been formally acknowledged. Testimony emphasized the historical role of the SGUs, the secrecy of the war, and the heavy losses suffered by the community. Speakers described the bill as a bipartisan effort with support from House and Senate members, and noted that a similar version had already passed the Senate unanimously. They also said the bill would help Minnesota set an example for other states and improve public understanding of the secret war and the contributions of Southeast Asian communities. Rep. Cha explained that the bill creates a new statutory definition for veterans of the secret war in Laos, establishes eligibility criteria for benefits and privileges, authorizes the commissioner of veterans affairs to verify veteran status, and creates a 12-member task force to advise that process. The bill would allow access to certain state veterans benefits and privileges, including veterans designation on IDs, grave markers, honor guard, state veterans cemeteries, and related preferences. In response to questions, speakers said the main challenge had been educating colleagues because the war was classified, and they estimated fewer than 1,000 SGU veterans are still alive. They also said the bill carries no major monetary benefit and is intended primarily to provide recognition and a framework for verification.

Transcript Highlights:

• Today, that proud spirit lives on through more than 200 chapters nationwide, including at least 10 chapters
• That proud spirit lives on through more than 200 chapters nationwide, including at least 10 chapters
• , and it's called Chapter 6.5, Title 71.
• I'm at Section 171A.403, construction of chapter related to asserted defense.
• offering narcotic drug treatment programs under Chapter 466 of the Health and Safety Code.

Summary: The Senate began with a quorum call, prayer, approval of the previous journal, and messages from the House, then moved through several recognitions and resolutions honoring visiting groups. Members adopted resolutions recognizing the Texas chapters of Blue Star Mothers of America, Fine Arts Education Day, Donate Life Texas Day, Baha’i Capitol Day, County Government Day, Jack County Day, Crockett County Day, and a recognition of Navy Petty Officer Simon Urbanik for service during the Cuban Missile Crisis. The chamber also heard remarks from visiting doctors, students, county officials, and community groups, with multiple senators speaking in support of military families, arts education, organ donation, and local government service. The Senate then took up Committee Substitute Senate Bill 2779, relating to the allocation and use of certain hotel occupancy tax revenues. Senator Birdwell said the bill would stop local governments from conditioning HOT funds on race- or class-based priorities and would require Galveston to transfer the full state rebate for beach cleaning and maintenance to its park board. After questions, the Senate suspended the rules, passed the bill to engrossment, suspended the three-day rule, and finally passed it, though the final vote showed significant opposition. The chamber also passed Committee Substitute Senate Bill 2322, described as a cleanup bill removing the compelling-factor test for dispatchable generation from the Texas Jobs, Energy, Technology, and Innovation Act. A major debate centered on Committee Substitute Senate Bill 2253, which would phase out uncertified teachers in core classrooms and strengthen educator certification requirements. Senator Creighton argued the bill responds to a teacher pipeline crisis, adds parent notification, creates multiple preparation pathways, and provides financial incentives for certification; Senator West and Senator Sparks pressed for rural flexibility and implementation details. An amendment from Senator Gutierrez to add a teacher student-loan repayment program failed on a 11-17 vote, while other technical and fiscal amendments were adopted. The bill then passed to engrossment, the three-day rule was suspended, and it was finally passed. The Senate also passed Committee Substitute Senate Bill 2371, updating skimmer-reporting rules to cover electronic terminals beyond fuel pumps, and Committee Substitute Senate Bill 2351, relating to the construction of certain concrete plants under a standard permit. Senate Bill 619, a conscience-protection bill for health care workers, drew extended questioning from Senators Cook, Eckhardt, and Menendez about patient abandonment, scope, and whether it could allow refusals of legal services such as vaccines, antibiotics, contraception, or personal care; despite those concerns, the Senate suspended the rules and passed the bill to engrossment. Finally, the chamber began consideration of Committee Substitute Senate Bill 1169, which would allow public entities to form public utility agencies to cooperate on water and wastewater projects without eminent domain or cross-collateralization, with Senator Hinojosa explaining it as a tool for small and rural communities facing utility infrastructure problems.

Transcript Highlights:

• That would include students that could be subject to chapter 50 Chapter 37 proposed discipline.
• Not with current Chapter 37.
• I wholeheartedly agree with the rewrite of Chapter 5.
• Next, under Chapter 37.
• I mean, Chapter 37 is 30 years old this year.

Bills: HB6, HB27, HB 123, HB210, HB213, HB222, HB610, HB 1085, HB1481, HB6, HB27, HB123, HB210, HB213, HB222

Keywords: mental health, telehealth, public schools, discipline management, behavioral interventions, financial literacy, high school education, curriculum requirements, economics, personal finance, HB 123, kindergarten readiness, early literacy, early numeracy, reading screening, math screening, foundational literacy, foundational numeracy, dyslexia screening, reading intervention

Transcript Highlights:

• If we're going to repeal an entire chapter, we should um bring in the stakeholders that um are going
• The amendment changes the exemption from 10 to 25 units that shall not be involved under this chapter
• If we're going to repeal an entire chapter, we should um bring in the stakeholders that um are going
• If we're going to repeal an entire chapter, we should um bring in the stakeholders that um are going
• If we're going to repeal an entire chapter, we should um bring in the stakeholders that um are going

Keywords: 1189, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Senate House Bill 2324, an act amending Title 37, Chapter 9, Article 4, Arizona Revised Statutes, by
• House Bill 2404, amending Title 36, Chapter 5, Article 1, Arizona Revised Statutes, by adding Section
• House Bill 2875, amending Title 9, Chapter 4, Article 8, A.R.S., by adding Section 9-500.54 relating
• An act amending Title 50, Chapter 7, Arizona Revised Statutes, by adding Section 15-71.05 relating to
• House Bill 2895, an act amending Title 50, Chapter 7, Arizona Revised Statutes, by adding Section 15-

Keywords: 1182, all

Summary: The House convened, opened with prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, welcomed judicial branch guests for Judges Day, and recognized several visitors and proclamations, including 2026 Social Work Month. Members also received routine announcements and committee substitutions before moving into Committee of the Whole on multiple calendars. In Committee of the Whole, the House considered and advanced a large number of bills, often after committee and floor amendments. Notable measures included HB 2035 on kinship placement in child welfare; HB 2041 on keeping children from being removed from parents solely due to poverty; HB 2251 on licensed midwifery standards; HB 2429 on short-term rental regulation; HB 2444 on pharmacist-provided testing/treatment, which drew strong opposition from several members over safety, oversight, and cost concerns but still advanced; HB 2615 on court-appointed supervisors; HB 2726 on a sleep apnea device for AHCCCS/Access coverage, which drew concerns about vendor specificity and process; HB 2914 on protecting vulnerable adults in long-term care; HB 4018 on public safety; HB 2127 on an omnibus transportation/license plate measure; HB 2240 on tuition waivers for children of disabled veterans; HB 2344 and HB 2403 on appropriations-related matters; HB 2991 on social media and youth safety; HB 4070 on trafficking-related corporate penalties; and HB 4136 on unlawful entry involving vulnerable adults. Several sponsors described stakeholder negotiations and policy goals, while opponents raised concerns about safety, scope, costs, or process. The House then adopted Committee of the Whole reports and sent many bills to engrossing. In third reading, HB 2123 failed on a 24-28 vote after debate over gold and silver legal tender; HB 2270, HB 2324, HB 2404, HB 2557, HB 2574, HB 2594, HB 2611, HB 2681, HB 2697, and HB 2800 were among the bills voted on, with most passing. Members explained votes on several measures, including support for county authority changes, mental health services, patient records access, domestic violence address confidentiality, child welfare rights, and a bill tied to impaired-driving-related tragedy. The session ended with additional votes still underway on later third-reading bills.

Transcript Highlights:

• I'm the attorney and civil rights director for the Council on American-Islamic Relations Arizona chapter
• I'm the Attorney and Civil Rights Director for the Council on American Islamic Relations Arizona chapter
• Some of the offenses in Chapter 14 are public sexual indecency, but now this might require someone to
• Our main concern was that the language in this bill just says any of the various chapters under Title
• An offense under Chapter 16 could just be recklessly damaging property.

Bills: HB2495, HB2557, HB2594, HB2615, HB2800, HB2861, HB2862, HB2931, HB2995, HB4042, HB4070, HB4117, HB4136

Keywords: vulnerable adults, sentencing, felonies, criminal justice, enhanced penalties, medical records, patient rights, healthcare access, privacy, healthcare providers, timeliness, address confidentiality, domestic violence, privacy protection, voter registration, court proceedings, parenting time, supervised visitation, family court, high-risk cases

Summary: The committee first heard HB 2931, which would continue the Arizona Civil Rights Advisory Board for eight years. Staff and the sponsor described it as a continuation measure to preserve the board’s civil rights reporting and advisory role. One supporter from the Civil Rights Division testified that the board is a volunteer, nonpartisan body that issues reports on civil rights issues, while the division itself protects Arizonans in employment, housing, voting, and public accommodations. The bill passed on a 5-3 vote with a due pass recommendation. Members then considered HB 2862, a strike-everything amendment creating a sentencing enhancement for crimes committed while wearing a mask to conceal identity, narrowed by amendment to Title 13 offenses only. Supporters argued it would deter offenders and help law enforcement, while opponents from CAIR Arizona and the ACLU warned it could burden religious expression and expressive protest, including niqabs, hijabs, motorcycle helmets, and protest costumes. The committee adopted the striker and an additional amendment, then advanced the bill as amended on a 7-2 vote. HB 4042, dealing with paternity actions in the adoption/termination context, would require service of a filed paternity action to prevent waiver of paternal rights and allow failure to do so to support termination of the parent-child relationship. An adoption attorney said the change would close a loophole that can leave children in legal limbo, and the bill passed unanimously. HB 4136 created unlawful entry into a residential structure where a vulnerable adult resides as a felony, but several members and an opponent argued the conduct was already covered by existing trespass, burglary, abuse, and aggravating-factor statutes; the bill nevertheless received a due pass recommendation on a 6-3 vote. The committee also advanced HB 2995, which rewrites child custody/domestic violence standards to make domestic violence a dominant factor in legal decision-making and parenting time, expand the definition to include coercive control, and create a rebuttable presumption against custody for a parent who committed domestic violence. The sponsor and a bereaved mother testified that the bill is intended to better protect children from lethal domestic violence; it passed 8-0 with one member present. Later measures included HB 4070, which would bar certain convicted individuals from serving as nonprofit officers/directors and expand civil liability related to trafficking; supporters called it a prevention tool, while opponents said it was overbroad and could chill nonprofit services, especially for immigrants and DACA recipients. The bill passed 7-2. HB 2861, codifying post-nuptial agreements and setting standards for enforceability, passed 9-0. HB 2800, increasing penalties when someone knowingly lends a vehicle to a restricted DUI driver and a serious injury or death results, passed 9-0 after emotional testimony from the victim’s family and MADD. HB 2495, adding sentencing enhancements for offenses against vulnerable adults and limiting early release, passed 8-0 with one present. HB 2557, requiring health care providers to produce patient medical or payment records within seven business days after a written request, passed 9-0 after discussion about electronic records and timing. Finally, HB 2594, concerning the Address Confidentiality Program, would require family courts to use the participant’s state-issued address, limit access to a child’s records in certain cases, and make illegally obtaining or attempting to obtain a confidential address a class six felony; the sponsor and a participant described repeated attempts by abusers to uncover protected addresses.

Transcript Highlights:

• They do refer to different chapters, so the 030 of the chapter, 335, that's mostly where cities get their
• 030<00:19:47.799> of<00:19:48.159> of<00:19:48.440> the<00:19:48.600> chapter
• chapters so uh the 030 of of the chapter chapters so uh the 030 of of the chapter uh<00:19:49.840
• This has been a collaborative effort with the American Physical Therapy Association, Kentucky chapter
• This has been a collaborative effort with the American Physical Therapy Association, Kentucky chapter

Keywords: 00:00 Call to Order 01:55 Attendance Roll Call 02:10 HB 422 Discussion 03:35 HB 422 Vote 04:55 HB 6 Discussion 11:30 HB 6 Vote 16:45 HB 87 Discussion 20:22 HB 87 Vote 21:43 HB 255 Discussion 24:33 HB 255 Vote 26:19 HB 437 Discussion 29:09 HB 437 Vote 30:25 Adjournment, 958, all

Summary: The committee first took up House Bill 6, sponsored by Rep. Wade Williams, which would require administrative regulations with a major economic impact of $500,000 or more over two years to go through the legislature. Williams argued the bill would rein in regulatory overreach, improve transparency, and still allow emergency regulations. Several members raised concerns about executive-branch authority and the role of subject-matter experts, while others supported the bill as a way to improve communication and legislative oversight. The bill passed on a roll call vote and was sent to the House floor. The committee then considered House Bill 87, sponsored by Rep. Emily Callaway, with a committee substitute adopted first. The bill is aimed at reducing barriers for people with felony records who are seeking occupational licenses, while preserving existing public hiring practices for cities and counties. Callaway said the changes were mostly technical and intended to make the process more transparent, with no fiscal impact. The committee approved the bill, and it passed with the committee substitute. House Bill 255, sponsored by Rep. Amy Neighbors, also passed with a committee substitute. The measure updates and modernizes the Kentucky Board of Physical Therapy statutes, which sponsors said have not been substantially revised since 1958. Supporters said the bill clarifies outdated language, defines terms more clearly, and better reflects current practice, including physical therapist assistants. The chairman noted the long effort to update the practice act and praised the work of the stakeholders involved. Finally, House Bill 437, sponsored by Rep. Tony Hampton, was presented as a cleanup bill for alcohol beverage control law. It would limit state and local ABC administrators and investigators from making arrests unless they are POP certified, while leaving their other authority intact. Hampton and supporting witnesses said the change would align the statute with other law enforcement certification requirements and help keep civilian administrators from being put in harm’s way. The transcript ends during discussion of this bill, with no final vote shown.

Transcript Highlights:

• It also has the responsibility to periodically review and recommend changes to Chapter 57-40.6.
• It also has the responsibility to periodically review and recommend changes to Chapter 57-40.6.
• It establishes guidelines regarding the I want. amend changes to Chapter 57-40.6.
• In large part, the chapter was written during a time when copper line wireline services were the only
• Over the last 30 years, the chapter has been revised to incorporate Over the last 30 years, the chapter

Summary: The committee approved the March 26 minutes and then received a quarterly update on major IT projects from NDIT. Staff reported the portfolio included 116 major projects totaling about $546 million, with the overall portfolio under budget but slightly behind schedule. They reviewed projects over the 20% variance threshold, including an Industrial Commission grants management system and DOT’s roadway pre-construction replacement, and then heard startup and closeout reports from HHS, OMB, DPI, and DOT. Several previously troubled projects were closed, including HHS bed management, vital records modernization, and DOT roadway capital planning; some projects finished under budget and ahead of schedule, while others were significantly behind schedule or over budget but were now closed or being remediated. The committee also reviewed NDIT’s annual report, including service-fund financials, peer-state rate comparisons, records management, and customer satisfaction efforts. Members asked about how service-fund revenue and grant administrative charges are accounted for, how chargebacks work, and whether NDIT tracks customer satisfaction scores. NDIT said it does track CSAT-type measures in some service areas and has survey data, but it is not planning another customer survey this summer. Members encouraged more regular reporting of customer satisfaction, service-level metrics, and performance data to help guide future improvements. A major portion of the meeting focused on the state’s mainframe modernization effort. NDIT said the overall effort is still targeting about 2030, with multiple HHS and DOT projects underway and a $15 million tech-debt appropriation already removing some components. Staff described the main obstacles as data cleanup, complex integrations, limited staff capacity, retirements, and vendor constraints, and said they are seeking a vendor with modernization support in the next contract cycle. Members pressed for clearer accountability and faster progress, and NDIT and HHS emphasized that they are working jointly but need continued support and better tools. The committee then heard a cybersecurity update on NDIT’s statewide services and maturity assessments. NDIT explained that it provides vulnerability scanning, endpoint protection, security awareness training, threat briefings, and penetration testing, and that these services are tied to a cybersecurity maturity assessment based on CIS controls. Members questioned the sharp drop in participation since 2020 and whether the self-assessment should be mandatory or tied more strongly to StageNet access or insurance incentives. NDIT said participation is voluntary, but Enderf is now requiring annual assessments to keep a 4% insurance discount, and members discussed whether stronger requirements or audit authority may be needed. The meeting ended as the committee began a follow-up discussion on BEAD broadband connection costs and why some locations are much more expensive to connect than others.

Transcript Highlights:

• It contains a handful of changes to the grants-related statutes, which are found in chapter 16B.
• in chapter 16B. in chapter 16B.
• of statute that relates purely chapter of statute that relates purely to<00:44:59.240> Ramsey
• <00:52:08.920> and<00:52:09.160> this<00:52:09.760> um chapter and this um chapter
• <01:07:51.240> unless provisions of this chapter unless provisions of this chapter unless

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• So, um, that's a good question because under Chapter 171, DLNR manages our public lands.
• 171 DLR manages our public under chapter 171 DLR manages our public lands<00:47:31.760> so<00
• <00:47:54.720> 171 we believe our mission under chapter 171 we believe our mission under chapter
• Next up, we have HB 1141, relating to updating public land leases issued pursuant to chapter 171.
• <02:20:19.640> 91 the they be exempt from HRS chapter 91 the they be exempt from HRS chapter

Keywords: 910, house, all

Summary: The committee heard testimony on HB 1233, relating to storm management systems, which would add safety and maintenance requirements for detention and retention ponds. Supporters, including Alison Schafers of the Ki Injury Prevention Coalition and Kristen Herstead of the Hawaii Lifeguard Association, said the measure is needed because poorly maintained ponds can become hidden drowning hazards, especially for children, and argued that fencing, signage, and life-saving equipment would have minimal cost. Schafers described the death of her daughter in a detention pond and said the bill reflects recommendations in the Hawaii Water Safety Plan. Members asked about whether the issue should be handled at the county level; testifiers responded that a statewide standard is needed, though counties would likely handle permitting. No vote was taken on the bill during the excerpted discussion. The committee then heard HB 867, relating to recreational facilities, which would require accessible playgrounds. The Department of Land and Natural Resources said it submitted comments and that state parks do not generally have recreational facilities affected by the bill, while most such facilities are under county jurisdiction. The Hawaii State Council on Developmental Disabilities, the Disability Communication Access Board, and the Disability Rights Center all supported the bill’s intent but recommended changes, including replacing the term “special needs” with “accessible,” focusing the requirement on new and renovated playgrounds, and specifying wheelchair-accessible swings. Testifiers emphasized that accessible play spaces promote inclusion for children with disabilities and benefit all children. No final action or vote was reported. The committee also took up HB 1358, relating to a public land trust working group. DLNR supported the measure and said it had provided written comments, while the Office of Hawaiian Affairs strongly supported the bill and described longstanding problems with incomplete land inventories, self-reported revenue data, and disputed public land trust payments. OHA said an audit it funded suggests the state owes more than current payments reflect, and other supporters said the bill is needed for transparency, accountability, and a complete inventory of public trust lands, including submerged lands. Committee questions focused on how the public land trust information system is maintained, who updates it, and how revenue reporting works; DLNR said the system is older, has limited dedicated IT staffing, and relies on agency self-reporting rather than independent verification. No vote or final committee action was announced in the excerpt.

Transcript Highlights:

• It strikes a state statute other than Chapter ... and substitutes another law of this state.
• This chapter applies to coverage under a group health benefit plan provided to a resident of this state

Bills: HJR144, HJR218, HB40, HB 101, HB 112, HB146, HB168, HB214, HB413, HB1523, HB493, HB521, HB594, HB557, HB305, HB549, HB854, HB 1057, HB 1052, HB842, HB3174, HB3311, HB2486, HB3196, HB824, HB 1039, HB2529, HB2713, HB4936, HB4995, HB4830, HB4864, HB5219, HB5263, HB5154, HB2674, HB5525, HB5623, HB2545, HB2587, HB2625, HB5520, HB5436, HB4926, HB1573, HB5165, HB4811, HB5081, HB4755, HB3179, HB4310, HB4611, HB2159, HB4626, HB3637, HB3153, HB3066, HB2786, HB2966, HB638, HB640, HB876, HB497, HB5539, HB4809, HB5308, HB4687, HB4070, HB4421, HB4412, HB3284, HB3369, HB3420, HB3449, HB4098, HB4281, HB4120, HB4504, HB4370, HB 1106, HB2370, HB2404, HB3863, HB2407, HB2253, HB2273, HB2040, HB1586, HB3788, HB3993, HB4690, HB4309, HB4696, HB2308, HB 1142, HB1533, HB1621, HB2242, HB2012, HB2193, HB2442, HB2464, HB2348, HB2313, HB2289, HB1942, HB2011, HB1629, HB2993, HB3592, HB3824, HB4076, HB4535, HB4623, HB4773, HB 1091, HB5115, HB5515, HB3372, HB5659, HCR118, HB 1233, HB2239, HB2379, HB2863, HB3368, HB3787, HB3815, HB3898, HB4023, HB4285, HB4329, HB4331, HB4429, HB4646, HB4904, HB5200, HB5320, HB5651, HB5662, HB5668, HB5670, HB5672, HB5674, HB5676, HB5679, HB5688, HCR108

Keywords: regional mobility, transportation authority, local law, constitutional amendment, public projects, Texas energy fund, energy efficiency, retail electric customers, electric generating facilities, business court, civil procedure, litigation, jurisdiction, arbitration, Texas State Guard, task force, professionalization, state missions, critical infrastructure, science park district

Transcript Highlights:

• Chapter 83 evictions are related to residents.
• Logging Establishments today are exempt from Chapter 83 evictions.
• Chapter 83 evictions are related to residents.
• Regrettably, I have to bring up Chapter 83 again.
• Regrettably, I have to bring up Chapter 83 again.

Summary: The committee considered a long agenda of bills, with most measures reported favorably after brief sponsor presentations, amendments, and roll calls. Early bills included SB 658 on lien waivers/releases, SB 736 on Brownfields redevelopment, SB 1002 on utility service restrictions, SB 1132 on right-to-repair for certain equipment, and SB 1378 on restitution for leaving the scene of a crash involving property damage. Each was amended or discussed as needed and then approved by the committee. The committee also advanced SB 768 on foreign control interests in health care licensing, SB 772 on school diabetes management and access to glucagon, SB 1400 on removal of altered sexual depictions posted without consent, SB 1696 on prearranged transportation services, and SB 1374 on school district reporting requirements for educator arrests and misconduct. Several bills drew notable public testimony and debate. SB 1132 prompted strong support from the sponsor and agriculture interests, but opposition from equipment dealers, technology groups, and wireless industry representatives who argued the market already provides repair options and that the bill could harm dealer networks and security. SB 1730, the Live Local/affordable housing bill, received extensive discussion about parking reductions, height and density preemption, attorney’s fees, local government authority, and impacts on Monroe County and other areas; the committee adopted an amendment and reported the bill favorably despite concerns from some members and advocates about parking, due process, and local control. SB 606 on public lodging and food service establishments also generated significant debate, with opponents warning it could displace long-term guests and vulnerable families, while the sponsor said it clarifies transient occupancy and removes ambiguity in the removal process; the bill passed after the committee rejected a related amendment. Other measures advanced with less controversy. SB 576 updated service-of-process rules, and SB 1164 authorized email delivery of landlord-tenant notices if the parties agree in writing, though tenant advocates urged clearer safeguards and the sponsor said he was not yet committed to the House version. SB 940 prohibited the resale of restaurant reservations without consent and was supported by restaurant interests. SB 1690, allowing infant safety devices or “baby boxes” as a legal surrender option, drew emotional support from several witnesses who said it would provide anonymous, life-saving alternatives for mothers in crisis; the committee continued discussion into the latter part of the meeting. Throughout, the committee adopted several amendments, heard both support and opposition from industry, advocacy, and local-government witnesses, and reported the discussed bills favorably by recorded vote.

Transcript Highlights:

• Chapter 83 evictions are related to residents.
• Logging Establishments today are exempt from Chapter 83 evictions.
• Chapter 83 evictions are related to residents.
• Regrettably, I have to bring up Chapter 83 again.
• Regrettably, I have to bring up Chapter 83 again.

Summary: The Rules Committee took up a large agenda of bills, with many measures reported favorably after brief explanations, amendments, and testimony. Early bills included CS/SB 658 on lien waivers and releases, which was amended to preserve enforceability despite form differences and then passed; CS/CS/SB 736 on brownfields redevelopment, which drew support from business and redevelopment interests and passed; and CS/SB 1002 on utility service restrictions, which was amended to bar certain building or fire code provisions affecting fuel-source choices and then passed despite opposition from environmental advocates. The committee also advanced CS/CS/SB 1132 on right-to-repair for certain equipment, where manufacturers, dealer representatives, and industry groups warned the bill could undermine dealer networks and existing repair programs, while supporters argued it would improve consumer access and help farmers and equipment owners. The bill still passed. Other measures reported favorably included CS/SB 1378 on restitution for leaving the scene of property-damage crashes, CS/CS/SB 768 on foreign-country controlling interests in health care licensing, CS/SB 772 on school access to glucagon for diabetes emergencies, CS/SB 1400 on removal of nonconsensual altered sexual depictions, and CS/SB 1696 on transportation network company impersonation and transit funding. A major portion of the meeting focused on affordable housing. CS/SB 1730, a follow-up to the Live Local Act, made several changes to zoning, height, density, parking, moratorium, and enforcement provisions, with members raising concerns about parking reductions, attorney’s fees, local control, and impacts in the Keys and other sensitive areas. Supporters said the bill closes loopholes and improves workforce housing implementation, while some witnesses urged additional exemptions for areas of critical state concern. The bill was reported favorably after amendment. Later, the committee considered several bills from Senator Leak, including CS/SB 576 on service of process, CS/SB 606 on public lodging and food service establishments, and CS/SB 1164 on electronic delivery of landlord-tenant notices. CS/SB 606 drew substantial debate over whether hotels and extended-stay properties should be able to remove nonpaying guests without treating them like residential tenants; the sponsor said the bill clarifies transient occupancy and removes mandatory arrest provisions, and it passed. CS/SB 1164, which allows email notice delivery by agreement, passed despite concerns from tenant advocates that the bill should include clearer consent and safeguards. The committee also approved CS/SB 1374 on school district reporting of educator arrests and misconduct, CS/SB 940 on third-party restaurant reservation sales, and began hearing CS/SB 1690 on surrendered infants, which would authorize infant safety devices or “baby boxes” as a legal surrender option, with supportive testimony from proponents describing crisis situations and the need for anonymous surrender options.

Transcript Highlights:

• I got Orton-Gillingham every day, and now I can read chapter books and finally feel proud and confident
• After one school year of doing Orton-Gillingham five days per week, he's reading chapter books.
• this legislature authored a bill that established a commission to look at the long-term health of Chapter
• So the intent of the turning 22 law, Chapter 688, is to make this transition better.
• Obviously, Senator Lewis, as you know, and Chair Gordon, we're fully in favor of a Chapter 70 review,

Keywords: 995, all

Summary: The Joint Committee on Education held a hearing focused primarily on special education-related bills, with testimony centered on two major themes: transition planning for students aging out of school-based services at age 22, and the fiscal strain special education costs place on districts. Committee members explained hearing procedures, noted the House was in formal session, and periodically stepped out for votes while staff recorded testimony. A separate bill on special education due process was also taken up briefly, along with a bill on special education finance and another on equitable access/data reporting. On House Bill 752 and Senate Bill 313, witnesses from the Arc of Massachusetts, the Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress, the Developmental Disabilities Council, families, self-advocates, and Senator Comerford described the “Turning 22” transition as a crisis point that often leaves families without adult placements, services, or clear communication. Testimony emphasized earlier planning, more accountability, better data collection, and a commission to improve coordination and residential placement. Several parents and advocates shared personal accounts of traumatic transitions, delayed placements, and the need for plans to begin at least a year before age 22. The committee later closed testimony on these bills after hearing from all signed-up speakers. House Bill 4217, on special education due process, drew support from Representative Sullivan-Almeida, parents, and advocates who argued that the burden of proof should shift from families to school districts. Testimony described costly legal battles, delays, and parents having to become experts in reading instruction or hire advocates and attorneys to secure services. Brody Dwyer, a 10-year-old student with dyslexia, and his mother described how evidence-based instruction helped him after years of struggle. The committee also heard testimony on House Bill 546/Senate Bill 317, which would require DESE to publish cross-tabulated data on race, disability, gender, income, and other factors; advocates said this would better expose disparities and help address the school-to-prison pipeline. Finally, on House Bill 691/Senate Bill 430, school leaders, educators, and union representatives testified that special education costs are outpacing district budgets and that increasing circuit breaker reimbursement and creating a commission to study long-term sustainability would help prevent staffing cuts and service reductions. No votes were taken during the hearing; the committee repeatedly closed testimony on individual bills as speakers finished and moved through the agenda.

Transcript Highlights:

• . >> Calendar 488, Senate Print 8097, Senator Bailey, an act to amend Chapter 394 of the Laws of 2018
• Calendar 1254, Assembly 10998, Assembly Member Schiavoni, an act to amend Chapter 492 of the Laws of
• Calendar 1254, Assembly 10998, Assembly Member Schiavoni, an act to amend Chapter 492 of the Laws of
• Calendar 1256, Senate Print 10182A, Senator Helming, an act to amend Chapter 117 of the Laws of 1983.
• Calendar 1256, Senate Print 10182A, Senator Helming, an act to amend Chapter 117 of the Laws of 1983.

Keywords: 993, senate, all

Summary: The Senate opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and an invocation, then approved the prior day’s journal and proceeded to a lengthy third-reading calendar. Early business included several motions to discharge Assembly bills from committees and substitute identical Senate bills, along with a few bills laid aside for the day. The chamber also recalled two bills from the Assembly, restored one bill to the Third Reading Calendar after reconsideration, and received amendments on two other bills without changing their calendar status. The Senate then took up a large number of bills across topics including labor, energy, insurance, consumer protection, environmental conservation, health, banking, elections, public service, education, workers’ compensation, criminal justice, local government, and tax law. Most measures passed with broad support, though several drew recorded opposition. Notable debate included Senator Mayer’s explanation for a bill intended to prevent treatment-court participants, including veterans, from losing their driver’s licenses twice after completing diversion programs; Senator Ryan’s support for a bill expanding prosecutors’ ability to treat repeat sexual abuse as persistent abuse; and a sharp exchange on a bill repealing New York’s HIV/STI criminalization law, with Senators Borrello and Chan opposing it and Senator Salazar defending the repeal as necessary to reduce stigma and protect survivors. The chamber also adopted and recognized several resolutions and guest presentations. Members welcomed the Tri-Valley Secondary School girls cross country champions, Miss America Cassie Donagan and Miss New York Teen Nadia Anwar, and the Hudson High School varsity boys basketball team. Later, the Senate took up a resolution proclaiming May 2026 as Maternal Mental Health Month, with multiple senators speaking in support of greater awareness, reduced stigma, and improved care for pregnant and postpartum New Yorkers. At the end of the session, the sponsors opened the day’s resolutions for co-sponsorship, and the Senate adjourned until Monday, June 1 at 12 noon, with intervening days designated as legislative days.