Transcript Highlights:

• Given that we do have a committee member who is on their way from another committee to present, I will
• She is such an asset to this committee, to this body, to the Senate.
• She's done so much work to keep the committee going.
• And committee member, Item 2, SB 46.
• Thank you, Madam Chair, and committee members for your patience.

Committee: Senate Elections and Constitutional Amendments

Summary: The committee heard three bills. SB 73, by Senator Cervantes, would bar county registrars from allowing federal agents to inspect voting machines and was presented as a response to alleged federal interference in California elections. Supporters said it would help local governments defend election systems, while Senator Choi opposed it as unnecessary and beyond state authority, arguing federal law already governs access to voting equipment. The bill passed on a 4-1 vote to Appropriations after the call was lifted. SB 401, by Senator Hurtado and presented by Senator Allen, would authorize the Fair Political Practices Commission to extend Form 700 and other economic-interest filing deadlines during declared emergencies. Testimony and committee discussion focused on whether the bill gave the FPPC too much open-ended discretion, with members asking for clearer limits on how long extensions could last and when they would apply. The author and FPPC counsel said they would work on clarifying the language, and the bill passed 5-0 to Labor, Public Employment and Retirement. SB 46, by Senator Umberg, would give the Secretary of State authority to remove constitutionally ineligible presidential or vice presidential candidates from the California ballot, aimed at preventing a third presidential term. Supporters from CREW and a constitutional law professor argued the measure was constitutional and necessary to enforce the 22nd Amendment, while the Secretary of State’s office raised concerns about creating an investigative role and suggested alternative language or use of an independent special counsel. Members debated whether ballot eligibility determinations should be made at the state or federal level, and the bill passed 4-1 to Appropriations. The chair then thanked committee staff and adjourned the hearing.

Transcript Highlights:

• I wanted to comment this morning on House Bill 250 and note that this committee entertained a bill last
• House Oversight Committee on February 6th highlighted the urgency of this issue.
• The chair thanked the witness for joining the House Environment and Agriculture Committee, said they
• The chair thanked the witness for joining the House Environment and Agriculture Committee, said they
• and agriculture house environment and agriculture committee<04:43:55.760><c> we</c><04:43:55.958><c>

Summary: The committee held a work session on a bill arising from the Lee case involving animal seizures and humane society involvement. Members and the commissioner discussed concerns about due process, lack of clear notice to animal owners, the need for owners to understand when they are surrendering ownership, and whether humane agents should have additional training or certification. Several members also questioned the role of the NH SPCA and humane societies, the absence of oversight, and whether there was any financial or policy conflict in their involvement. The commissioner said the Department of Agriculture does not have a direct relationship with humane societies, but does coordinate with police on seizures, and noted that problems tend to arise when agencies do not consult the department first. Testimony and discussion focused on possible fixes to the bill, including clearer written notice of rights, requiring a third-party qualified veterinarian or other neutral evaluator, establishing the condition of animals at the time of seizure for later court proceedings, and possibly using teleconferencing with a veterinarian in limited circumstances. Some members suggested the bill may need a broader study committee, while others said it should be amended now rather than delayed. The chair said the bill would be worked on further and sent to the subcommittee for more detailed review. The committee then opened a hearing on HB 250, which would allow local governing bodies to regulate dog muzzling. Representative Jodi Newell testified that the bill was intended to let municipalities respond to dangerous dogs, citing Keene’s attempt to require muzzling after a serious incident but lack of clear authority under current law. Deborah LeBlanc also testified about a dog attack that seriously injured her dog and said a muzzle requirement could have prevented the attack. Committee members asked about the incident, existing dog-control laws, and whether the dog had been leashed; the discussion suggested the bill was meant to clarify local authority over muzzling as a public safety measure.

Transcript Highlights:

• The Committee on Health and Human Services is called to order.
• I've been part of the Application Review Committee, the Complaint...
• I've been part of the Application Review Committee, the Complaint Screening Committee, and then the full
• They don't have access to housing.
• Seeing no further business before the committee, we are adjourned."

Committee: Senate Senate Health and Human Services COR

Summary: The Senate Health and Human Services Committee met, approved the March 25 minutes without objection, and heard testimony from Dr. Lynette Livesey, a nominee for the State Board of Psychologist Examiners. Dr. Livesey described her Arizona background, long career in psychology and public health, work with correctional and community mental health populations, and volunteer service. She said she has served on the board’s application review and complaint screening committees and values the board’s fair, collaborative approach, while noting concerns she has seen in family court-related complaints and the importance of communication among providers and agencies in behavioral health. Committee members asked about her experience on the board, challenges facing the board, and broader behavioral health issues such as access to services, coordination among professionals, and how to measure success. One member encouraged her to meet with caucus members and discuss family court issues further. After discussion, a motion was made to recommend Dr. Livesey’s confirmation to the full Senate. The committee voted 5 ayes, 0 noes, and 2 not voting to advance her nomination, and then adjourned.

Transcript Highlights:

• The Committee on Health and Human Services is called to order.
• I've been part of the application review committee, the complaint... ...so far?
• I've been part of the Application Review Committee, the Complaint Screening Committee, and then the full
• They don't have access to housing.
• Seeing no further business before the committee, we are adjourned.

Committees: Senate Health and Human Services , Senate Senate Health and Human Services COR

Transcript Highlights:

• All right, welcome everyone to the Judiciary Committee.
• Daniel Hugo for the of the committee.
• </c> county ethics commission, I mean board. county ethics commission, I mean board.
• every time that they're considered by a committee in the Senate on the second committee.
• </c><01:16:25.280><c> I</c> lot of these um first committees. I lot of these um first committees.

Summary: The Judiciary Committee heard testimony on several bills related to bribery and public corruption. On SB 2249, which would increase penalties for bribery under certain circumstances, the Honolulu Prosecutor’s Office and Honolulu Police Department supported the measure, arguing that Hawaii’s current class B felony penalty is probationable and too weak to secure cooperation in corruption cases, especially after the U.S. Supreme Court’s Snyder decision narrowed federal bribery prosecutions. The Public Defender opposed the bill, arguing that elevating bribery to a class A felony and making it non-probationable was excessive, overbroad, and would remove judicial discretion. Multiple individuals also testified in support. Committee members questioned the prosecutor about removing deferred acceptance of plea provisions and asked HPD about the $20,000 threshold; the prosecutor said alternative charges could still be used in plea bargaining, and HPD said the threshold aligns with first-degree theft. The committee also discussed how current law tolls the bribery statute of limitations while an official remains in office, with the prosecutor explaining it can extend up to six years total. The committee then heard SB 2494, which would set a nine-year statute of limitations for bribery offenses. The Public Defender opposed the extension, saying the justification based on the length of federal investigations was too broad and that bribery already has a longer limitations period than most felonies. The Honolulu Prosecutor’s Office supported the bill, saying bribery cases often involve coordination with federal investigators, that federal and state evidence-gathering methods may differ, and that a longer period would help ensure admissible evidence and allow state prosecution when federal law no longer applies. Members asked whether there were public examples of cases lost to the current limitations period; the prosecutor said he was not aware of any publicly available examples, but maintained nine years was a reasonable period. The committee also considered SB 2737, which would create a misdemeanor for failure by a state or county elected official to report bribery. The Department of the Attorney General offered comments and suggested changing the term to “public servant” for consistency with existing law. The Honolulu Prosecutor’s Office supported the intent but warned the reporting requirement could create Fifth Amendment issues for witnesses who might otherwise be useful in grand jury proceedings. The bill drew broad public support, with 33 supporters and no opposition noted. Finally, the committee took up SB 3071, which revises sex trafficking and promoting prostitution statutes by redefining “profits from prostitution” and adding an affirmative defense for certain lawful transactions. The Public Defender opposed the measure, saying it still could reach people without the required criminal intent and that the affirmative defense language could be applied unevenly. The Attorney General and Honolulu Prosecutor supported the bill, saying it better addresses concerns raised by the State v. Ibarra decision while closing loopholes that allow traffickers to disguise profits as loans or gifts. The prosecutor emphasized that traffickers are sophisticated and can structure transactions to evade current law.

Transcript Highlights:

• Also serving on this conference committee is Senator Robert Jackson, who I know is engaged in floor activity
• It is a pleasure to co-chair this budget committee with you. And this first one is very exciting.
• We have the Department of Tax and Finance, Division of Budget, Executive Chamber, Commissioner on Ethics
• WE HAVE THE DEPARTMENT OF TAX AND FINANCE, DIVISION OF BUDGET, EXECUTIVE CHAMBER, COMMISSIONER ON ETHICS
• NEW YORKERS, HIGH TAXES, BURDENSOME REGULATIONS AND RISING HOUSING, ENERGY AND INSURANCE COSTS CONTINUE

Summary: The Budget Subcommittee on General Government and Local Assistance held its first meeting on the 2026/2027 state budget, with opening remarks from Senate Co-Chair Senator James Skoufis and Assembly Co-Chair Assembly Member Michaelle Solages. They introduced members, designated secretaries, and identified the agencies and budget areas under the subcommittee’s purview, including tax and finance, the Division of Budget, ethics and lobbying, financial services, general services, state charges, inspector general, state, audit and control, tax appeals, IT services, aid to localities, statewide financial systems, the Board of Elections, alcohol beverage control, and miscellaneous general government. Discussion focused on affordability, local government aid, and the strain on municipalities from rising costs, aging infrastructure, and state mandates. Senator Walczyk emphasized lowering taxes, reducing regulations, and increasing support for local governments, including AIM and CHIPS funding, while criticizing high housing, energy, and insurance costs. Assembly Minority members echoed concerns about the 2 percent property tax cap, utility bills, mandated costs, and the need for more permanent aid rather than temporary assistance. Assembly Member Ari Brown argued that the proposals did not provide enough long-term certainty, noting differences among the Governor’s, Assembly’s, and Senate’s funding levels for municipal aid and related programs. Assembly Member Burdick also supported stronger funding for municipalities, drawing on his local government experience. The co-chairs noted that no table target had yet been received and that negotiations would continue on open issues in general government. No votes were taken, and the meeting adjourned after brief closing remarks about ongoing budget talks among the Senate, Assembly, and Governor.

Transcript Highlights:

• And I know we have a lot of members who had other meetings and other committees; at least two other committees
• Madam Chair, Senator, Committee, and Madam Chair, I was chair of the rules committee.
• Ethics class that he goes to.
• Sorry, Madam Chair and members of the committee.
• It was House Bill 120 from last session.

Committee: House Legislative Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:

• House bill 1439. Thank you. Next item. House bill 1439.
• The committee is calling to order the 101 agenda. First item, House Bill 369.
• House Bill 774. Thank you. Next item. House Bill 774.
• House Bill 990. Thank you. Next item. House Bill 990.
• Calling to order the joint Committee on Ways and Means and Judiciary. First item is House Bill 235.

Committee: Senate Ways and Means

Summary: The committee took up a long decision-making agenda on numerous House bills, largely in the tax, appropriations, public safety, agriculture, and land-use areas. Early action included HB 476, which passed with amendments after discussion of tax impacts and a committee report change; HB 796 also passed with amendments to protect several individual income tax credits from the bill’s effect. Other measures were advanced with amendments or without changes, including HB 1059, HB 1145, HB 1173, HB 1439, HB 800, HB 934, HB 990, HB 101, HB 106, and a series of bills in the 1026–1055 range, many of which were passed unamended or with technical/effective-date changes. Several bills were deferred, including HB 1147, HB 807, and later items on the agenda. The committee also approved a number of policy and agency-structure changes. HB 430 was amended to create or expand an internship/workforce development program with reporting requirements; HB 505 and HB 506 were amended to adjust appropriations and FTEs; HB 774 added an appropriation section for two FTEs; HB 1052 limited use of universal service fund money; HB 1296 shifted a reporting requirement from BNF to the Department of Defense; and HB 1064 moved the State Fire Council and Fire Marshal Selection Commission to the Department of Law Enforcement and set the fire marshal salary. HB 427 made major biosecurity-related changes, including moving the Hawaii Invasive Species Council to the Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity in 2026 and adding new appropriations. HB 830 was amended to allow third-party historic preservation reviewers under ethics and conflict rules, with a two-year sunset and committee-report comments on vacancies. Public safety and regulatory bills also moved forward. HB 302 on cannabis drew opposition from Senator Awa, who said it would shut down a medical provider in his district; the bill nevertheless passed with amendments adding criminal penalties, enforcement authority, and a 2027 effective date for cultivator licenses. HB 306 on water code penalties passed unamended, HB 860 on liability for road resurfacing passed with amendments to limit liability to the work actually performed and eliminate joint and several liability, and HB 141 on public land leases passed with technical amendments. HB 1159 establishing a commercial harbor emergency evacuation working group passed as is, and HB 1482 on hemp passed with amendments exempting existing permit holders and certain retailers, aligning THC limits, and setting a far-future effective date. Most votes were adopted without recorded opposition, though several members noted reservations on specific measures.

Transcript Highlights:

• Committee Substitute for Committee Substitute for House Bill 1089. Senator Harrell to close.
• Committee Substitute for Committee Substitute for House Bill 393, a bill to be entitled an act relating
• Committee substitute for Committee Substitute for House Bill 1359, a bill to be entitled an act.
• Please read the House bill. Committee substitute for House Bill 1609.
• Committee substitute for committee substitute for committee substitute for House Bill 1371, a bill to

Summary: The Senate convened with a quorum, opened with prayer and the Pledge, and heard several member introductions and recognitions. The Rules Chair moved CS/CS/SB 622 to the end of the special order calendar, which was adopted without objection. SB 80 on state land management was temporarily postponed, as were later bills SB 716 and CS/CS/CS/SB 1348. The chamber then took up a series of bills, often substituting House companions and adopting amendments before final passage. Measures approved included a comprehensive waste reduction and recycling plan (HB 295, 38-0), mitigation banking and land development changes with a phosphate mining lands amendment (CS/CS/SB 492, 35-3), aggravated animal cruelty with a searchable FDLE database and sentencing multiplier (HB 255, 37-0), the Spectrum Alert for missing children with autism and related training/funding (HB 711, 37-0), newborn screening for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (CS/CS/HB 1089, 36-0), and revisions to the My Safe Florida Condominium Pilot Program to expand eligible mitigation projects and adjust approval thresholds (CS/CS/HB 393, 37-0). The Senate also passed workforce education legislation allowing charter schools access to grant funding and expanding money-back guarantees (HB 1145, 37-0), a statewide study on automation and workforce impact (HB 827, 35-0), parole guideline revisions (HB 181, 37-0), court-appointed psychologist procedures in family law cases (HB 901, 37-0), sexual cyber harassment protections covering digitally forged intimate images (HB 1451, 37-0), a home health aide program for medically fragile children with training and reimbursement provisions (CS/CS/SB 1156, 37-0), substance abuse and mental health care changes including 988 oversight and involuntary examination procedures (HB 1091, 37-0), a feasibility study for a statewide pond data database (HB 1359, 37-0), and Department of Law Enforcement housekeeping changes and retired police dog reimbursements (HB 1053, 37-0). The most extensive debate centered on the charter schools bill (HB 443), which expanded charter autonomy, reporting parity, enrollment flexibility, and governance rules; after a delete-all amendment and a friendly amendment, it was placed on the third-reading calendar rather than immediately voted on. Several bills were briefly discussed with concerns about transparency, accountability, funding, and constitutional issues, but all bills brought to a vote during this segment passed.

Transcript Highlights:

• for the House Consumer and Public Affairs Committee substitute for House Bill 199.
• that it do not pass, but that the House Health and Human Services Committee substitute for House Bill
• We are on adoption of a favorable committee report for House Bill 38, and a favorable committee report
• on the House Health and Human Services Committee substitute for House Bill 38.
• the House Appropriations and Finance Committee.

Bills: HB145 , HB164 , HJR6 , HR1 , HB20 , HB65 , HB66 , HB80 , HB166 , HB295 , HB306 , SB29 , SB37 , HB99 , HB206 , HB213 , HB270 , HJR5 , SB104 , SB193 , HJM2 , HJM3 , HJM1 , HM7 , HM17 , HM4 , HM22 , HM23 , HM24 , HM26 , HM2 , HM16 , HM32 , HM13 , HM47 , HM20 , HM51 , HM1 , HM31 , HM35 , HM36 , HM46 , HM53 , HM54 , HM39 , HM11 , HM14 , HM21 , HM34 , HM50

Summary: The House of Representatives held an African-American Day celebration recognizing the second Friday in February as required by state statute and honoring the contributions of African Americans in New Mexico and nationally. The program included the national anthem, “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” the Pledge of Allegiance, an invocation, and remarks from Representative Janelle Anyanoru and others. A central feature was recognition of the “Talented 10,” ten African American women leaders in New Mexico, including officials and community leaders in city government, education, the judiciary, business, and public service. The chamber also recognized numerous guests and community leaders, including Senator Harold Pope, the first African American elected to the New Mexico Senate, and concluded the celebration with a musical performance and closing remarks about diversity and inclusion. After the celebration, the House moved into announcements and then messages and committee reports. Members recognized guests and community efforts, including organ donation awareness, the New Mexico Community Foundation, and a Beclavito Chapter House delegation. The House received a Senate message transmitting Senate Finance Committee substitute for Senate Bill 241, the Child Care Assistance Program Act, which was referred to the House Appropriations and Finance Committee. Several committee reports were adopted, including House Bill 132, House Bill 199 via a committee substitute, Senate Bills 38, 101, and 58 as amended, House Bill 38 via a committee substitute, House Memorial 59, House Bill 256, House Memorial 43, Senate Bill 64 as amended, House Bill 93, House Bill 254 as amended, and House Memorial 29. The chamber then began third reading debate on House Joint Resolution 5, a proposed constitutional amendment to provide legislative compensation tied to New Mexico’s median household income. Supporters argued it would modernize the legislature, broaden access to working people, and improve accountability; opponents questioned the timing, amount, and fairness of paying legislators while many constituents struggle economically. The debate continued with no final vote shown in the transcript excerpt.

Transcript Highlights:

• Reports of committee, Civil Law reports House Bill 78 favorably, 112 favorably, House Bill 190 favorably
• Committee report from Transportation: House Bill 148 favorably, 149 favorably, 221 favorably, 346 favorably
• Reports of committee, civil law reports, House Bill 78 favorably 1.12.
• Reports of committee, civil law reports, House Bill 78 favorably, 12 favorably, House Bill 190 favorably
• Committee report from transportation, House Bill 148 favorably, 149 favorably, 221 favorably, 346 favorably

Summary: The House met with a quorum present, opened with prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, and then took up introductions of several resolutions and bills. Resolutions introduced included measures to recognize Funeral Directors’ Day, commend the crew of Eve, recognize Crime Stoppers of Greater New Orleans, honor Nurse Practitioner Day, and express condolences for several deceased public figures and former members. Several resolutions were adopted immediately by suspension of the rules, including condolences resolutions and commendations for Bernardo de Gálvez, Codafield Day, Drew Brees, the American Shore and Beach Preservation Association, and support for continued National Guard operations at Camp Beauregard. The House also received multiple bills and committee reports. Introduced bills included appropriations measures to pay consent judgments, a property tax exemption bill for certain trusts involving property owners age 65 or older, a nursing medication administration bill, and a prisoner transfer notification bill referred to the Committee on Justice. Committee reports were read showing numerous House bills reported favorably or with amendments from Civil Law and Transportation. No floor votes on those bills were taken in the transcript, and many items were noted as lying over. During personal privilege remarks, members discussed PILOT (payments in lieu of taxes) data and transparency, with concerns about foregone revenue and local taxing authorities. The chamber also recognized visiting 7th grade students from Trinity Episcopal School and held a moment of silence honoring the life and legacy of Reverend Jesse Jackson. Announcements were made for upcoming committee meetings, an ethics training after adjournment, and a Bible study event. The House then agreed to adjourn until 2:00 p.m. the next day.

Transcript Highlights:

• Gabbard, members of the committee. Uh Gabbard, members of the committee.
• Uh, it's basically the same as House Bill 1174, which was considered by this committee last session and
• Uh, it's basically the same as House Bill 1174, which was considered by this committee last session and
• Uh, it's basically the same as House Bill 1174, which was considered by this committee last session and
• Uh, it's basically the same as House Bill 1174, which was considered by this committee last session and

Bills: SB2040 , SB2248 , SB2530 , SB2732 , SB2871 , SB2919 , SB3076 , SB3300 , SB3301

Committee: Senate Judiciary

Summary: The Judiciary Committee heard testimony on several bills. SB 2248 would expand financial disclosure requirements to certain gubernatorial nominees subject to Senate confirmation. The State Ethics Commission supported the measure, saying disclosures should be filed before confirmation so the public and interested parties can review them in advance. Testimony was overwhelmingly in support, with 22 supporters, no opposition, and one comment. SB 2530 would broaden Hawaii’s campaign contribution ban for state and county contractors to include officers and immediate family members, and would extend the ban to certain grantees and their officers and family members, with specified contract thresholds. The Campaign Spending Commission said the bill is its own proposal and would align the thresholds with procurement guidelines. Testimony was entirely favorable, with 30 in support, no opposition, and two comments. Members asked about conforming amendments and how the existing prohibition on soliciting contributions applies; CSC said the calendar-day language clarifies current practice and that the solicitation ban already applies to contractors, with the bill extending the same standard to officers and immediate family members. SB 2732 would require courts to consider a defendant’s ability to pay when setting bail, including excluding public benefits from income calculations and clarifying the 40-hour affordability benchmark for those above 150% of the federal poverty level. The Office of the Public Defender, the Hawaii Correctional System Oversight Commission, and the ACLU of Hawaii supported the bill, arguing that unaffordable bail creates wealth-based disparities, contributes to jail overcrowding, and can cause severe collateral consequences for people not yet convicted. There was one opposition testimony and 18 supporters. Committee discussion focused on when the 40-hour period should begin, how income would be verified, and whether misrepresentation could affect bail; the Public Defender said the measure should be read to start from initial appearance and that judges could address false statements through existing remedies. SB 2871 would prohibit discrimination based on perceived characteristics, association with someone who has or is perceived to have protected characteristics, and intersectional combinations of characteristics. The Department of Education supported the intent but asked for clear definitions, while the Hawaii Civil Rights Commission said the bill does not add new protected classes and simply codifies the Lamb v. University of Hawaii decision on intersectional discrimination. LGBTQ+, civil rights, ACLU, and other advocacy groups testified in support, with one opposition testimony and a total of 27 in support, two opposed, and one comment. The committee then heard SB 2919, which appropriates funds for one full-time public deputy public defender position. The Public Defender’s Office said the position would provide statewide legal support and a centralized resource on constitutional, appellate, and immigration-related issues; several advocacy groups supported the measure, and committee questions focused on how the new position would complement existing training and keep staff updated on changing law.

Transcript Highlights:

• </c> want to thank um our new committee want to thank um our new committee administrator<00:03:15.760
• </c> there's no new members on our committee. there's no new members on our committee.
• Throughout the Alerty at my house.
• </c> anybody else on the committee. Mr. anybody else on the committee. Mr.
• &gt;&gt; Hello again, members of the committee. &gt;&gt; Hello again, members of the committee.

Bills: HF3435 , HF3409

Committee: Senate Education Policy

Keywords: school access, school site, school district, charter school, federal agents, DHS, Department of Homeland Security, ICE, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, CBP, Customs and Border Protection, USCIS, immigration enforcement, judicial warrant, student privacy, school safety, sanctuary schools, warrant requirement, federal warrant, school grounds

Transcript Highlights:

• By Rules and Ethics Committee and Representative Barrero, House Bill 7015, a bill to be entitled an act
• By Rules and Ethics Committee and Representative Barrero, House Bill 1717, a reviser's bill to be entitled
• By Rules and Ethics Committee and Representative Barrero, House Bill 1717, a reviser's bill to be entitled
• By Rules and Ethics Committee and Representative Barrero, House Bill 1719, a reviser's bill to be entitled
• By Rules and Ethics Committee and Representative Barrero, House Bill 7021, a reviser's bill to be entitled

Summary: The House convened with prayer, a moment of silence for Deputy Will May of the Walton County Sheriff’s Department, the Pledge of Allegiance, and quorum established. The Rules and Ethics Committee report setting the special order calendar was adopted, and CS for HB 947 was recommitted to the Judiciary Committee. The chamber then took up several special-order bills, mostly reviser and technical measures, including SB 36, SB 42, SB 40, and SB 38, all of which passed unanimously or near-unanimously after brief explanations that they updated or cleaned up Florida statutes. Members also passed HB 513 on electronic transmittal of court orders, requiring clerks to send certain petitions, notices, summonses, and orders within six hours, including Baker Act, Marchman Act, and risk protection orders. HB 615, on electronic delivery of landlord-tenant notices by email when both parties agree in writing, passed after adoption of a tenant-protection amendment offered by Rep. Gottlieb. HB 655 establishing a regulatory framework for pet insurance and wellness programs passed unanimously. HB 1145 on workforce education passed 100-4, expanding CAP grant eligibility to public charter schools for CTE startup/expansion and increasing minimum program offerings tied to a money-back guarantee program. HB 299 on elevator accessibility requirements passed unanimously, and HB 649 on autonomous practice by certified registered nurse anesthetists passed 77-30 after structured debate. The most extensive debate centered on CS for HB 1205, which would significantly revise Florida’s citizen initiative process. The bill would require a $1 million bond after 25% of required signatures are collected, require petition handlers and circulators to be Florida residents and U.S. citizens, impose background checks and training for paid circulators, shorten petition turn-in deadlines to 10 days, increase penalties, add signature revocation notices, require more identifying information on petition forms, and create felony penalties for certain misconduct. Supporters argued the changes were needed to combat fraud and protect petition integrity; opponents said the bill would burden First Amendment activity and make ballot initiatives harder for ordinary Floridians to pursue. Multiple amendments sought to roll back or soften the bill’s requirements, protect personal information, restore longer deadlines, lower validation thresholds, and bar public funds from being used to advocate for or against amendments. Some amendments were adopted, but several key ones failed as debate continued.

Transcript Highlights:

• The committee on Health and Human Services is called to order.
• Informed consent is the basis of medical ethics.
• “Good morning, committee chairwoman and members of the committee.
• And if there's a problem with the P&T committee, we support engagement and reforming of that committee
• Good morning, Madam Chair, members of the committee.

Bills: HB2048 , HB2189 , HB2248 , HB2403 , HB2728 , HB2729 , HB2730 , HB2731 , HB2906 , HCR2058

Committees: Senate Health and Human Services , Senate Senate Health and Human Services COR

Keywords: orders of protection, domestic violence, court procedures, legal guardian, enforcement, healthcare, licensed health aides, scope of practice, ventilator care, training standards, medical freedom, healthcare mandates, employment requirements, public health, government regulation, elderly, physical disabilities, Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System, home and community based services, funding increase

Transcript Highlights:

• By Rules and Ethics Committee and Representative Barrero, House Bill 7015, a bill to be entitled an act
• By Rules and Ethics Committee and Representative Barrero, House Bill 1717, a reviser's bill to be entitled
• By Rules and Ethics Committee and Representative Barrero, House Bill 1717, a reviser's bill to be entitled
• By Rules and Ethics Committee and Representative Barrero, House Bill 1719, a reviser's bill to be entitled
• By Rules and Ethics Committee and Representative Barrero, House Bill 7021, a reviser's bill to be entitled

Summary: The House convened with prayer, a moment of silence for Walton County Deputy Will May, the Pledge of Allegiance, and a quorum present. The Rules and Ethics Committee’s special order report for April 3, 2025 was adopted, and CS/HB 947 was recommitted to the Judiciary Committee. The chamber then moved through a series of bills, mostly reviser and technical measures, with several companion Senate bills substituted and passed: SB 36 (Florida statutes adoption act), SB 42 (general reviser’s bill), SB 40 (deleting inoperative statutory provisions), and SB 38 (renaming references from the Division of Investigative and Forensic Services to the Division of Criminal Investigations). All of those passed unanimously or near-unanimously. The House also passed HB 513 on electronic transmittal of court orders, requiring clerks to electronically send certain petitions, notices, summonses, and orders within six hours, including Baker Act, Marchman Act, and risk protection order documents. Members discussed whether judges needed to direct transmission and whether there were fail-safes if clerks did not comply. HB 615, on electronic delivery of notices between landlords and tenants, was amended to strengthen tenant protections and passed 108-0. HB 655 establishing a regulatory framework for pet insurance, HB 299 on elevator accessibility requirements, and HB 1145 on workforce education also passed, with HB 1145 receiving 100 yeas and 4 nays. HB 649, removing the paper supervised protocol for certified registered nurse anesthetists, passed 77-30 after structured debate. A major portion of the meeting focused on CS/HB 1205, which would significantly revise Florida’s citizen initiative process. The bill adds a $1 million bond requirement after 25% of required signatures are collected, requires petition handlers to be Florida residents and U.S. citizens, imposes background checks and training for paid circulators, shortens petition turn-in deadlines to 10 days, increases penalties, adds signature revocation notices, and creates additional criminal penalties and enforcement provisions. Supporters argued the changes were needed to address fraud and protect petition integrity; opponents said the bill would burden First Amendment activity and make citizen-led amendments much harder to qualify. Numerous amendments were offered, including proposals to remove sensitive personal information from petition forms, soften deadlines and penalties, change validation thresholds, and alter the estimating conference process; most failed, though one amendment clarifying who pays for background checks was adopted. The transcript ends during continued debate on an amendment to strike most of the bill and prohibit public funds from being used to advocate for or against constitutional amendments.

Transcript Highlights:

• Yep, you will motion to re-refer House File 3773.
• Motion to re-refer House File 3773 to the Committee on Ways and Means. Yeah.
• </c> share their thoughts on House File 3773. share their thoughts on House File 3773.
• Representative Lee renews his motion that House File 3773 be rereferred to the Committee on Ways and
• Representative Lee renews his motion that House File 3773 be rereferred to the Committee on Ways and

Transcript Highlights:

• The House of Representatives.
• House Bill 2611 is youth-led.
• drugs around the house.
• They're not in-house. If we were to bring them in-house, you reduce accountability.
• Chairman, members, House Bill 2860 establishes the Independent Oversight Committee on the Department

Committee: House House Government Committee of Reference

Summary: The special committee on government convened to discuss child welfare reform, with members framing the meeting as a response to Arizona Auditor General findings and broader concerns about the Department of Child Safety (DCS). The chair emphasized that the committee’s goal was to improve accountability, oversight, and child-centered practices rather than assign blame, and said bills advanced from the committee would move to the floor. Roll was taken, and the committee then heard testimony on several bills focused on foster care and DCS operations. HB 2611 was heard first. The bill would require termination of a group foster home employee who tests positive on a drug screen, establish screening and safety requirements for group homes, expand foster youth rights, and include designated advocates on family/service teams. An amendment was adopted that changed the drug-testing language to require removal from child contact pending confirmatory review rather than automatic termination, and to require testing after certain incidents. Supporters, including foster youth and former foster youth, described unsafe conditions in group homes, bullying, drug use by staff, inadequate training, and the need for posted rights, mental health services, and stronger accountability. Some members raised questions about the amendment, drug-testing procedures, backup staffing, and contracting authority, but the amendment passed and HB 2611 was given a do pass recommendation by a 5-1-1 vote. The committee next considered HB 2035, which would add extended family members to the search, notification, and placement process when a child enters custody and create a presumption that placement with relatives or significant adults is in the child’s best interest. Testimony strongly favored kinship placement, with speakers arguing that children do better with familiar caregivers and that current practice often fails to locate or prioritize relatives. Several witnesses described tragic cases, including the death of Zariah Finley Dodd, to argue that repeated placements and congregate care increase risk. Some members questioned whether the bill duplicated existing law and asked for clarification on differences from prior legislation; the sponsor said the bill strengthens existing policy and adds written documentation requirements. HB 2035 was ultimately given a do pass recommendation by a 4-2 vote. Finally, the committee heard HB 4049, which would authorize DCS to employ legal counsel and incur legal expenses, along with an amendment that would require independent representation or review in certain cases involving credible allegations against DCS or its agents. The sponsor and several witnesses argued that the Attorney General’s office has a structural conflict when representing DCS, and that independent counsel would better ensure honesty and accountability in court proceedings. Others cautioned that keeping representation within the Attorney General’s office preserves consistency, oversight, and existing checks and balances. Discussion continued on the structure of legal representation for DCS, but the transcript ends before a final vote on HB 4049 is recorded.

Transcript Highlights:

• Welcome to the Environment Committee.
• </c> to the environment committee. to the environment committee.
• And that has harvesting it ethically.
• Any committee.
• Okay, committee members. Thank meeting. Okay, committee members.

Committee: Senate Environment, Climate, and Legacy

Transcript Highlights:

• it'll be identical to the House bill.
• Chair, thank you, committee.
• Thank you, committee. Thank you, Senator Davis.
• Good afternoon, committee members.
• Any other business before the committee? Senators.

Bills: S0600 , S0760 , S1012 , S1326 , S1488 , S1536 , S1544 , S1750

Committee: Senate Criminal Justice

Keywords: bail bonds, pretrial release, forfeiture, criminal justice, Florida statutes, bond conditions, surety, violations of release conditions, violent crimes, victim safety, public safety, warrantless arrest, probable cause, pretrial detention, first appearance hearing, law enforcement immunity, domestic violence, stalking, battery, aggravated assault