Transcript Highlights:

• FOR INSTANCE 22.9 PERCENT OF NURSES SUPPORT -- 11 PERCENT OF THE PUBLIC.
• THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT. >> Chair Trumbull: THANK YOU SO MUCH. SONDRA?
• JACK CORY FLORIDA ASSOCIATION WAIVING IN SUPPORT. THANK YOU VERY MUCH. JEFFREY? IN SUPPORT.
• IN SUPPORT. SIERRA GOLDSTEIN. THANK YOU. LESLIE IN SUPPORT. FSU.
• DAVID DANIEL WAIVING IN SUPPORT. THANK YOU. MEMBERS, WE ARE IN DEBATE.

Keywords: 999, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• So, anyway, I support you for doing it.
• Is there anyone else here in support of AB 871? Anyone else here in support of AB 871?
• I'm in support of the bill.
• So I don't want to come off as if I'm not in support. I'm in support of the efforts.
• So I am in support of this today.

Summary: The Assembly Judiciary Committee heard several bills focused on public safety, privacy, animal welfare, and elder protection. AB 634 by Assemblymember Jeff Gonzalez would ban the manufacture, distribution, and sale of tianeptine, described as “gas station heroin,” with supporters citing addiction and hospitalization risks and noting the bill had been narrowed to civil penalties and research exceptions. AB 1159 by Senator Addis would expand student data privacy protections to higher education and limit how ed tech companies use student information, including a narrow private right of action; supporters emphasized student privacy and opponents warned it could chill innovation and create litigation risk. AB 1382 by Assemblymember Castillo would prohibit the sale of genetically modified animals for cosmetic purposes, with supporters pointing to animal welfare and shelter overpopulation concerns and opponents seeking a narrower exemption for glowfish and other already regulated aquatic species. The committee also heard AB 871, which would strengthen reporting and training requirements for financial institutions responding to suspected elder financial abuse and scams, including reporting to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center and encouraging rapid client reporting. Supporters said the bill could help recover funds and improve pattern detection across jurisdictions, while one member raised concerns about duplication with existing suspicious activity reporting and bank procedures. In discussion, members generally supported the bill but noted the need to refine it; the author said it was intended as a practical step to improve existing processes. All four bills were moved out of committee with do pass recommendations, with AB 634, AB 1159, AB 1382, and AB 871 each passing on recorded votes after discussion and amendments. The committee also adopted consent calendar items and ended with a recognition of Republican caucus judiciary consultant Daryl Thomas, who is retiring after more than 20 years of service.

Transcript Highlights:

• I gained mentors who guided me, encouraged me, and supported me.
• We've also maintained support services, peer-led support groups, to ensure students have the support
• And how are they in elderly? this collaboration we had between NDSU and Sanford.
• And how are they in elderly? How do they impact muscle mass and fall risk?
• fix this would be adding a back support system.

Summary: The committee met at NDSU and approved the April 9 minutes. The main purpose of the meeting was an informational presentation from NDSU President David Stewart and university leaders on the university’s priorities, including enrollment, student success, research, commercialization, and use of New Horizons funding. Stewart emphasized a “One NDSU” approach, thanked legislators for past support, and said the university will focus on recruitment and retention, a new strategic plan, and growing research and tech transfer while serving North Dakota’s workforce needs. University leaders said NDSU is using tuition waivers more strategically and will work to reduce them over time through scholarship optimization. Provost Sherry Vale described academic portfolio reviews, program closures or consolidations, strategic hiring, and workload policies aimed at aligning resources with demand. They also highlighted student outcomes, including high completion rates, strong employment placement, and NDSU’s role in producing a large share of the state’s engineers, nurses, and agriculture graduates. Several students testified about how NDSU’s mentoring, internships, research, and support services helped them succeed. The committee also heard from partners on New Horizons-related collaborations: Gateway to Science described K-12 STEM outreach in rural and tribal areas, and Sanford Research discussed joint research efforts, including COBRE-related work, obesity and GLP-1 studies, and a joint biostatistics hire. Later speakers highlighted Governor’s School and NDSU’s research and commercialization efforts, including growth in research expenditures and invention disclosures. No additional votes or formal actions were taken beyond approving the minutes.

Transcript Highlights:

• County officials encourage your support.
• And a lot of the homes that these elderly people, ...value counties.
• We'd like to offer our support for this bill today.
• I'm here to support House Bill 2610.
• I ask for your support. Representative Orcutt: Thank you, Madam Chair.

Bills: HB2376, HB2584, HB2610, HB2615, HB2089, HB2194, HB2257, HB2528, HB2175, HB2334

Keywords: property tax, reform, local government, taxpayer, funding, agriculture, tax exemption, farm machinery, equipment, sales tax, HB 2610, property tax exemption, nonprofit housing, affordable housing, low-income housing, community use, temporary use, charitable property, Washington property tax, Department of Revenue

Transcript Highlights:

• Without support, these homes will close.
• Without support, these homes will close.
• with the CalPACE organization, also representing and supporting the urging the support for a standard
• And if you support the budget, ask, or you are opposed to the budget, and if you support the budget ask
• But if you could say your name, your organization, and what you support or don't support, but we do understand

Summary: The Assembly Budget Subcommittee on Health began with a hearing on the impacts of H.R. 1 on California health programs, focusing first on reproductive health state investments. HCAI outlined five state-funded reproductive health programs created after Dobbs, including uncompensated care, practical support, capital and clinical infrastructure, and workforce programs. Essential Access Health and Planned Parenthood testified that these funds have served hundreds of thousands of patients, but warned that the uncompensated care program is fully awarded and needs renewal, and that Title X and Medicaid-related federal uncertainty continues to threaten access. Members questioned who the uncompensated care program serves, why Medi-Cal covers a large share of abortions, and whether Planned Parenthood could expand prenatal services; public commenters urged continued support for reproductive health access. The committee then took up long-term care services and supports, starting with the HCBA and Assisted Living Waiver programs. DHCS reported large wait lists for both programs and said enrollment is limited by workforce and provider capacity, while LAO noted that increasing slots alone may not increase access without additional programmatic changes. Members pressed the department on whether more slots should be added given the lower cost of home- and community-based care compared with skilled nursing facilities, and public testimony argued that the wait lists should be reduced and that staffing concerns do not fully explain unused capacity. The committee also heard testimony on congregate living health facilities, where providers and a patient family described the homes as critical, lower-cost alternatives to nursing facilities for younger, medically complex people. Witnesses requested short-term bridge funding, while DHCS said it is proposing to transition CLFs into a managed care benefit by January 1, 2028, which would remove caps and expand access statewide. The final long-term care topic was PACE. DHCS explained that it has paused new PACE applications and service expansions for at least two years to reassess oversight capacity and develop a statewide strategic growth framework, while existing programs continue operating. CalPACE supported the pause as a planning measure but asked for four additional state nurse positions to reduce delays in level-of-care determinations and speed enrollment for frail older adults. Members shared personal stories about how PACE has helped family members and asked how the state will meet growing demand; DHCS said stakeholder engagement will begin later in the year and that some existing applications already in process will continue. Public commenters broadly supported PACE, HCBA, and CLF funding requests. The hearing then moved to the Department of Health Care Services’ 2026-27 Medi-Cal budget and related trailer bills. DHCS said Medi-Cal spending has grown due to coverage expansions, higher acuity, rising utilization, and especially pharmacy costs, and it described proposals to extend the current skilled nursing facility financing framework for one year while the state develops a new value-based payment strategy. LAO said most recent Medi-Cal spending growth has been driven more by higher per-enrollee costs than by caseload growth, with pharmacy spending growing especially quickly, and recommended better and more timely data to analyze the drivers. Members expressed concern about the rapid rise in Medi-Cal spending and asked for more detail on the largest cost increases.

Transcript Highlights:

• So they need resources, they need support, they need far more help.
• Do you need a technology support? And again, I'll remind the chamber that I'm retired from the FBI.
• How can we as policy makers support the development?
• To support those types of investigations would be a game-changer. Yeah. Okay. Thank you.
• Thank you for the question and we supported your legislation.

Keywords: Chinese Communist Party, retirement security, investment risks, SEC enforcement, Bipartisan action

Summary: The meeting primarily addressed concerns regarding the impact of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) on American investments and the financial security of retirees. The chair discussed legislation aimed at ensuring the protection of American investors against the risks posed by Chinese companies. There was a consensus among the members regarding the necessity to enforce existing policies that require compliance from foreign companies wishing to trade on American exchanges. The discussion included testimony from various stakeholders highlighting the urgent need to limit exposure to the CCP in retirement portfolios. Additionally, there were calls for increased accountability of regulatory bodies such as the SEC to better shield American investors from potential loss.

Transcript Highlights:

• I rise today in support of the rule and in strong support of H.R. 1, President Trump's one big beautiful
• </c><02:42:14.640><c> that</c><02:42:14.800><c> are</c> if you support programs that are if you support
• And what the Republicans are elderly.
• </c> support this bill and yield back. support this bill and yield back.
• </c> hurts America and you need to support hurts America and you need to support the<03:57:43.439><c>

Keywords: U.S. House of Representatives Floor Proceedings on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, 1012, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Indiana Engineering Society, both in support, not wishing to speak.
• Mary Ann Mushet with 10,000 Women is in support. If you want to step away, yeah.
• Our mission is to support pro-gold and silver legislation.
• HB 950 is a consumer protection program for elderly citizens. In the U.S.
• Treasury considers elderly over 50, and I'm 57. I'm not elderly.

Summary: The committee took up several House measures. HCR 66, as amended, asked Louisiana Economic Development and the Governor’s Office of Rural Development to study rural parish assets, infrastructure, workforce, and development opportunities, and it was moved forward without objection. HB 387, a clarification to allow the fire marshal’s office to review architectural and engineering plans equally, also passed favorably without objection. HB 1223, which would have LED promote Louisiana’s clinical trial capacity and adjust internal review board processes, was amended and moved favorably. HB 950, aimed at helping older adults recognize and avoid fraud through materials and resources from the Office of Elderly Affairs, was reported favorably. HB 975, a routine measure to recreate the Public Service Commission, was also reported favorably. HB 1186, which would create a more uniform statewide building code and licensing system for inspectors, was amended and moved favorably. HB 1222, described as a Grocery Initiative Act to let LED identify ways to address food deserts and food insecurity, was introduced near the end of the meeting. The most extensive debate centered on HB 617, a consumer transparency bill requiring mandatory fees to be included in upfront pricing. The author said the bill was intended to curb hidden fees and help consumers compare prices, with examples such as hotel resort fees and automatic restaurant service charges. Supporters argued it would improve transparency, while opponents from grocery, restaurant, hotel, housing, retail, and business groups said the bill was too broad, vague about terms like “total price,” unclear on enforcement and penalties, and could create compliance burdens and litigation risk, especially for small businesses. Housing advocates opposed the bill’s housing carve-out, arguing it could weaken renters’ ability to bring unfair-practice claims. Senator Morris moved to defer HB 617, and the committee agreed without objection. The committee also heard lengthy testimony on HB 797, which would create a Bayou Gold certification for certain transactional gold vendors that meet state-defined standards such as segregation, insurance, and nearby storage. The sponsor said the goal was to give consumers confidence and encourage vendors to keep gold closer to Louisiana, while critics argued the program would amount to a state endorsement of private companies, create misleading consumer impressions, and expose the state to confusion or liability. The bill drew opposition from the Sound Money Defense League and others, but the committee ultimately reported HB 797 favorably, with the understanding it still had to go to Finance. HB 1228, a hearing-aid cleanup bill updating definitions, contracts, testing periods, and licensing rules, was also moved favorably without objection.

Transcript Highlights:

• Of Personal assistance services under the Community Limiting Assistance and Support Services class waiver
• HB 1806 by Noble relating to certain prohibited transactions and logistical support between.
• HB 1819 by Lopez of Bahr relating to administration or grant program to support a family mental health
• We're for the subcommittee on Property Tax Appraisals HP 1941 by compost relating to the peer support
• child support beginning on the date of the child's conception and for the Subcommittee on Family and

Transcript Highlights:

• Mary Ann Mushet with 10,000 Women is in support. If you want to step away, yeah.
• Our mission is to support pro-gold and silver legislation.
• HB 950 is a consumer perception program for elderly citizens. In the U.S.
• Treasury considers elderly over 50, and I'm 57. I'm not elderly.
• I fully support it, and I move favorably. Thank you. Thank you, Senator Connick.

Bills: HCR66, HB387, HB617, HB797, HB950, HB975, HB1186, HB1222, HB1223, HB1228, HB1256

Keywords: economic development, rural communities, infrastructure, workforce training, Louisiana Economic Development, engineering, land surveying, construction, state fire marshal, plan review, hidden fees, junk fees, drip pricing, price transparency, mandatory fees, surcharges, consumer protection, unfair trade practices, advertising disclosures, total price

Summary: The Senate Commerce Committee met on April 20, approved the prior meeting minutes, and then heard a series of bills and resolutions. It first advanced H. CR 66, which directs Louisiana Economic Development, working with the Governor’s Office of Rural Development, to study rural parish economic assets, infrastructure, workforce, and development opportunities. The committee also moved HB 387, a clarification allowing the fire marshal to review architectural and engineering plans equally, and HB 1223, which seeks to promote clinical trials in Louisiana by having LED market the state’s research capacity and by adjusting internal review board procedures. HB 1228, a cleanup bill for hearing aid dealers that updates definitions, contracts, testing periods, licensing, and related requirements, was also reported favorably, as was HB 950, which would create an elderly consumer perception program through the Office of Elderly Affairs to help seniors recognize scams and fraud. The committee spent the most time on HB 617, a broad “hidden fees” consumer transparency bill. The author and supporters said it would require mandatory fees to be included in upfront pricing so consumers can make informed choices, while opponents from grocery, restaurant, hotel, housing, retail, and business groups argued the bill was vague, overly broad, and likely to create compliance burdens and litigation risk. Housing advocates objected to the bill’s housing exemption, warning it could weaken renters’ ability to bring claims over undisclosed fees. After extensive debate over variable pricing, sales taxes, enforcement, and the scope of the bill, Senator Morris moved to defer HB 617, and the committee agreed without objection. The committee also heard HB 797, which would create a “Bayou Gold” certification program for certain gold vendors and transactional gold products. The sponsor said the program would encourage vendors to keep gold insured, segregated, and closer to Louisiana consumers, with the Treasury administering the certification through participant fees. Several senators and an outside witness raised concerns that the state seal could be mistaken for an endorsement, could create liability or consumer confusion, and would favor a narrow set of vendors. Despite opposition, the committee reported HB 797 favorably, with members noting it still had to go to Finance. Later, the committee advanced HB 1186, which would create a more uniform statewide building code and licensing system for inspectors, add disciplinary authority, and impose a small permit fee to support the program, and HB 1222, which would let LED develop a grocery initiative to address food deserts and food insecurity. The meeting concluded with the committee hearing HB 1256 on abandoned digital assets, which would require dormant digital assets to be held in original form for three years so owners can reclaim them.

Transcript Highlights:

• Health Access supports...
• We urge your support.
• We're here in support of the CalPACE proposal.
• I'm here to support CalPACE's budget request for additional nursing support.
• CAP, the R Association has historically supported an MCO tax, but that support was rooted in three key

Summary: The subcommittee heard a lengthy Department of Health Care Services presentation on the governor’s Medi-Cal budget, including a $229.1 billion total-funds proposal, projected Medi-Cal enrollment declines as redeterminations continue, and several major cost drivers such as managed care growth, Medicare-related costs, pharmacy spending, and changes tied to federal policy. Members focused heavily on the elimination of Prop. 56 dental supplemental payments beginning July 1, 2026, questioning the likely impact on provider participation and utilization. DHCS said it is completing the required rate reduction/access analysis for CMS, has been holding stakeholder meetings and issuing provider bulletins, but could not yet quantify the real-world effect. The committee also discussed a $50 million savings proposal tied to new hospice utilization management authority and asked about possible effects on emergency dental care and provider participation. The hearing then moved through the November 2025 family health estimate and several county and program administration issues, including CCS, GHPP, and Every Woman Counts. DHCS said family health costs are rising despite slight caseload declines because of higher utilization and medical costs, and members raised concerns about CCS website accessibility, county administrative funding, and the transition of youth aging out of CCS. The department said most CCS beneficiaries are also on Medi-Cal, that counties have long raised funding concerns, and that it had clarified use of maintenance-and-operations dollars to address some county workload issues. Members also asked about Every Woman Counts potentially seeing higher demand as Medi-Cal changes take effect; DHCS said that is possible and that the program has multiple funding sources including General Fund. A major portion of the hearing focused on provider taxes and federal changes under H.R. 1, especially the Medi-Cal managed care organization tax and the hospital quality assurance fee. DHCS explained that H.R. 1 restricts new or increased health care-related taxes, phases down allowable tax levels over time, and tightens “generally redistributive” rules, which could sharply reduce the state’s ability to use the MCO tax for Medi-Cal financing. Members asked whether the Legislature could amend Prop. 35 or whether voters would need to act; DHCS said a three-fourths legislative amendment may be possible if it aligns with the measure’s purpose, but the department is still evaluating options. The committee also discussed hospital financing, with DHCS describing recent increases in state-directed payments and the effect of H.R. 1 in capping those payments at Medicare levels, and the LAO noting the tradeoff between preserving provider taxes and maintaining Medi-Cal funding. The subcommittee also reviewed a series of DHCS budget change proposals and trailer bill items, including managed care final-rule implementation, managed care operations, a hospital value strategy, a one-year extension of skilled nursing facility financing, long-term care payment transparency, and interoperability/prior authorization requirements. Members repeatedly questioned the use of limited-term versus permanent positions, the overlap among proposals, and the timing of new financing reforms. DHCS said the SNF extension would preserve current workforce standards, sanctions, growth limits, and the SNF quality assurance fee while the department develops a broader 2027-28 redesign. No votes were taken; items were repeatedly held open for later action. Covered California then presented on the expiration of the federal enhanced premium tax credit and the resulting affordability crisis. The agency said Californians will lose about $2.5 billion in premium assistance for 2026, average premiums could nearly double for many enrollees, and as many as 400,000 people could eventually leave marketplace coverage. Open enrollment ended with 1.9 million sign-ups, down 3% from the prior year, with especially steep declines among middle-income consumers and increased movement into bronze plans. Covered California said the state’s $190 million affordability subsidy is helping lower-income enrollees retain coverage, but cannot fully replace the lost federal assistance. Members also asked about the Health Care Affordability Reserve Fund, repayment of loans from that fund, the status of federal review of California’s essential health benefits benchmark, and implementation of the new gender-affirming care benefit under AB 144.

Transcript Highlights:

• And in Florida, we have a large elderly population.
• Oh, and the vote-by-mail bill is also supported by House Rep. Barnaby.
• And we have a citizenship bill supported by House Rep. Bernie Jocks.
• And we have a citizenship bill supported by House Rep. Bernie Jocks.
• And we are looking to support Senator Garcia's bill. in the process.

Summary: The committee heard a presentation from several county supervisors of elections and the Florida Supervisors of Elections Association on the 2024 election cycle and priorities for the 2025 session. They described very high turnout in the presidential election, major operational planning needs, and the heavy reliance on seasonal workers, list maintenance, ballot-on-demand systems, and secure chain-of-custody procedures. They also discussed the impact of recent legislative changes on voter-roll maintenance, including inactive voter removal, and said Florida’s election administration has improved to what they called a “platinum standard.” The supervisors outlined several legislative requests: allowing more than one non-government “wild card” early voting site to improve access and emergency flexibility; requiring newly naturalized citizens to update driver’s license information so voter records match DHSMV data; exempting home addresses of certain election workers and ballot transporters from public records to improve safety and recruitment; restoring a checkbox on vote-by-mail return envelopes so voters can stay on the vote-by-mail list for the next cycle; aligning base salaries for supervisors, property appraisers, and clerks with other constitutional officers; and reducing ballot length by removing precinct committee races from the ballot. They also said they expect a committee bill to carry some of these proposals. Members questioned the panel about ballot transport security, signature verification, vote-by-mail expiration, public records transparency, and the petition process for constitutional amendments. The supervisors said ballots are transported under detailed county plans with tamper-evident seals, chain-of-custody logs, trained workers, and in some cases two-person transport teams. On petitions, they said the process is labor-intensive and expensive, that fraud has occurred in some cases, and that they favor reforms such as requiring more personal identifying information and having initiative sponsors mail petitions to voters rather than making supervisors handle the mailing. They also said signature mismatches can be cured within 72 hours after Election Day and that voters are notified when possible. After the supervisors’ presentation, the committee also heard brief public testimony from Kathleen Griffiths, who urged adoption of commercial-style risk management standards in election systems and referenced several election-related bills her group supports.

Transcript Highlights:

• And, Lord, we thank you for each other, and the support and love we give one another each day.
• I ask for favorable support. Representative Young moves to pass the bill. Members, vote.
• This is a lesson learned from the Great Flood of 2016, and I ask for your support. Mr.
• HB 950 is a bill for the elderly.
• We know that our elderly residents are usually victims of scams and crimes.

Bills: HR252, HR253, HR254, HR255, HR256, HCR103, HCR104, HR244, HR245, HR246, HR247, HR248, HR249, HR250, HR251, HCR101, HCR102, SCR40, SCR60, SB112, SB131, SB145, SB194, SB268, SB307, SB312, SB319, SB333, SB341, SB346, SB464, SB466, SB488, SB495, SB503, SB507, SB509, HR9, HR196, HCR27, HCR28, HCR50, HCR62, HCR67, HCR71, HCR78, HCR81, SCR20, HB123, HB251, HB625, HB662, HB709, HB769, HB775, HB783, HB895, HB1011, HB1057, HB1155, HB1186, HB1224, HB1245, HB1247, HB1253, HB1254, HB1255, HB1256, SB8, SB10, SB11, SB12, SB13, SB14, SB16, SB17, SB18, SB20, SB21, SB22, SB40, SB48, SB55, SB69, SB75, SB77, SB78, SB85, SB102, SB115, SB133, SB140, SB148, SB151, SB165, SB169, SB170, SB185, SB197, SB200, SB217, SB235, SB278, SB280, SB291, SB300, SB303, SB315, SB324, SB330, SB411, SB416, SB420, SB436, SB438, SB449, SB455, SB456, SB477, SB489, SB521, SB97, SB105, HR171, HCR49, HCR65, HCR72, HR37, HCR64, HR170, HR191, HR206, HR207, HR208, HR217, HCR11, HCR53, HCR60, HCR66, HCR68, SCR19, SCR3, SCR6, SCR18, SCR11, SCR22, SCR2, HCR6, HB64, HB68, HB92, HB130, HB258, HB633, HB801, HB61, HB98, HB102, HB139, HB142, HB170, HB185, HB194, HB199, HB231, HB247, HB294, HB336, HB474, HB661, HB842, HB852, HB66, HB153, HB165, HB326, HB387, HB455, HB513, HB603, HB660, HB719, HB762, HB766, HB802, HB816, HB833, HB940, HB950, HB975, HB1028, HB1039, HB1051, HB1053, HB1080, HB1201, HB1215, HB1228, HB1251, HB1252, SB1, SB23, SB32, SB42, SB43, SB46, SB51, SB110, SB113, SB150, SB154, SB161, SB218, SB220, SB221, SB253, SB289, SB310, SB351, SB399, SB404, SB502, SB26, SB28, SB29, SB30, SB41, SB44, SB64, SB84, SB87, SB93, SB98, SB107, SB118, SB142, SB192, SB195, SB199, SB219, SB222, SB234, SB241, SB255, SB275, SB277, SB292, SB294, SB306, SB314, SB482, HCR32, HB798, HB998, HB1084, HB1223, HB59, HB955, HB1191, HB1234, HB646, HB824, HB341, SB397, SB442, HB901, HB79, HR20, HR74, HB284, HB306, HB366, HB393, HB458, HB577, HB582, HB605, HB614, HB682, HB733, HB752, HB773, HB911, HB926, HB996, HB1035, HB1069, HB1113, HB1140, HB1180, HB1240, SB47, SB82, SB89, SB149, SB382

Keywords: consumer protection, credit card fees, cash transactions, rounding practices, transparency, low-income, economic impact, residential construction, building codes, inspection practices, housing costs, task force, HR254, House Resolution 254, Ty Hebert, Acadiana Legislative Delegation, Louisiana State University, LSU, graduation, commendation

Summary: The House met with a quorum, opened with prayer and the pledge, adopted the journal, and received a large number of Senate messages, committee reports, and bill referrals. Members also introduced several resolutions and recognized guests, including students from Allen Parish, federal appointees Brandon Beach and Paul Hollis, and other visitors. The chamber then moved through a lengthy agenda of House and Senate measures, with many bills and resolutions reported favorably, amended, or referred to committee. Among the notable floor actions, the House adopted H.R. 32 urging the Port of New Orleans to obtain backup motors for the St. Claude Avenue Bridge. It also passed bills on a wide range of topics, including local court and ordinance procedures for Alexandria, prohibiting reporting criminal fines and fees to credit bureaus, veterans’ lottery benefits, police chief residency in Tickfaw, fire marshal plan review authority, expanding the definition of first responder to include public works employees, NIL protections for student athletes, salary increases and additional positions for assistant district attorneys, limiting OMV debt referrals for unpaid reinstatement fees, watershed restoration and flood control funding, a sexual assault survivor task force, elderly consumer protection education, recreation of the Public Service Commission, Medicaid reimbursement for non-emergency medical transportation, local sales tax audit procedures, alcoholic beverage definitions for salons and similar businesses, transfer of removed monuments to state park property, hearing aid dealer regulation updates, a permit fee for small in-state distillers, expanded city court jurisdiction in Avoyelles Parish, and a narrowed version of the Alexandria administrative adjudication bill. Several measures were amended on the floor before passage, including the Alexandria ordinance bill, the sales tax audit bill, the alcohol/beverage bill, and the monument transfer bill. The House also temporarily returned some bills to the calendar for later consideration. Most measures passed overwhelmingly, though House Bill 153 on criminal court debt reporting passed with 67 yeas and 18 nays, House Bill 660 on assistant district attorney salaries passed 94-1, House Bill 719 on additional ADA positions passed 95-0, House Bill 883 on the sexual assault task force passed 86-2, House Bill 1028 on non-emergency medical transportation passed 81-15, and House Bill 1215 on monuments passed 78-14.

Transcript Highlights:

• </c> rental activities, the level of support rental activities, the level of support needed<00:26:05.039
• </c><00:52:37.119><c> of</c> the legislation that is supportive of the legislation that is supportive
• of completing all of these support of completing all of these projects. projects. projects.
• Thank you. elderly they have already a house. So elderly they have already a house.
• So now is moving forward, but the county and the mayor in that instance was very supportive.

Keywords: 910, house, all

Summary: The Act 279 working group met for an informational briefing with DHHL on its use of the $600 million appropriation and progress on the department’s implementation plan. The chair reviewed the working group’s oversight role, noting that it was created to monitor expenditures, project development, and progress toward reducing the Hawaiian Homes waitlist, and that the group must submit a progress report before the 2026 session and a final report before the 2027 session. DHHL said it had provided an updated booklet reflecting the Hawaiian Homes Commission’s February 2024 recommendations and a detailed accounting of encumbrances and project progress across the islands. DHHL highlighted several implementation themes: innovative financing and construction methods, land acquisitions and exchanges, technology, beneficiary services, and partnerships with counties and private entities. The department described a “project lease” model that gives beneficiaries access to a project rather than a specific lot, with options such as turnkey homes, owner-builder, self-help, or rent-to-purchase arrangements depending on financial qualification. Officials said this approach is intended to serve lower-income beneficiaries, expand access for people on the waitlist, and allow beneficiaries to receive support services such as financial literacy and down payment assistance. The department reported that roughly $511 million had been encumbered for infrastructure, about $152.8 million for acquisitions, financing, and beneficiary services, and about $36 million in other covered costs, with about $588.9 million encumbered as of December 31 and about $120 million expected to be spent by that date. Officials said the original implementation plan covered about 2,722 units, while the updated plan projects roughly 6,000 to 7,000 leases and 2,472 lots to be occupied. They also described phase-two needs for additional funding, including projects on Hawaiʻi, Maui, Kauaʻi, and Oʻahu, and said they would need continued legislative support, including possible bonding and private activity bond set-asides, to complete remaining projects. Members discussed the distinction between encumbered and spent funds, and DHHL explained that encumbrances reserve money for specific contracts while construction spending occurs over time through progress payments. The department also showcased examples of innovative projects, including a high-rise project in urban Honolulu financed through a mix of private activity bonds, tax credits, and state funds, and an acquisition-based project in Kapaʻa, Kauaʻi using multiple funding sources. DHHL emphasized partnerships with the City and County of Honolulu and Maui County, and said it is still assessing future projects to keep infrastructure costs manageable and ensure homes are safe and affordable for beneficiaries.

Transcript Highlights:

• I rise in support of Senate Bill 492.
• I rise today as a co-author and strong supporter of SB 747.
• And beating up elderly people. That is not going to help.
• So I stand in support with the clear message.
• I strongly support this bond, but I support, in those negotiations, us dealing with this problem.

Summary: The Senate took up a series of third-reading bills covering horse racing, local taxation, consumer financial security, elections, utilities, batteries, sexual health, body-worn cameras, property tax treatment for inherited homes, adoptee birth records, youth housing bonds, workers’ compensation, and civil rights. SB 795 on horse racing, SB 762 allowing Hercules to seek voter approval for a sales tax increase, SB 505 requiring two-factor authentication for money transmitter platforms, SB 46 barring California ballot access for presidential candidates who have already served two terms, SB 73 restricting federal access to voting machines without a court order, SB 327 on utility oversight and ratepayer protections, SB 501 expanding battery producer responsibility, SB 608 on school contraceptive access, SB 691 on EMS-related redaction of body-worn camera footage, SB 288 clarifying Proposition 19 timing for inherited homes in probate, SB 381 giving adoptees access to original birth certificates, SB 492 creating a youth housing bond, SB 555 increasing permanently partially disabled workers’ benefits, and SB 747 creating a civil cause of action for constitutional violations by federal officers were all debated and advanced. Most measures passed on roll call, with SB 505 and SB 288 approved by unanimous roll call, and SB 73 carrying an urgency clause that also passed unanimously. Debate on SB 747 was the most extensive and contentious. Supporters argued the bill was needed to hold federal officers accountable for alleged constitutional violations, especially in immigration enforcement, and described it as a civil-rights remedy for people harmed by federal agents. Opponents said existing federal and state remedies already cover such conduct, warned the bill was politically motivated, and argued it could increase litigation and strain law enforcement resources. The bill nevertheless passed on a 30-10 vote, with the urgency clause also approved. SB 492 on youth housing also drew debate over state bonding and debt, with supporters emphasizing early intervention for homeless and foster youth and opponents arguing the state should avoid borrowing and instead fund projects through the budget; it passed 30-9 on both urgency and the measure. Other bills also drew focused testimony. SB 555 was presented as a long-overdue cost-of-living adjustment for permanently partially disabled workers’ benefits, and SB 381 was supported as a way to give adopted adults access to their original birth certificates for identity and medical-history reasons. SB 691 was framed as a privacy measure for patients receiving medical or psychological treatment, while SB 501 was described as closing a gap in California’s battery recycling and safety rules by adding medium-format batteries used in e-bikes and portable power systems. SB 762 was presented as a local option for Hercules to address revenue shortfalls, and SB 46 and SB 73 both centered on election integrity and constitutional questions, with members split over federal-state authority and ballot access.

Transcript Highlights:

• I rise in support of Senate Bill 492.
• So I strongly urge support for SB 492. Thank you.
• And beating up elderly people. That is not going to help.
• So I stand in support with a clear message.
• I strongly support this bond, but I support, in those negotiations, us dealing with this problem.

Keywords: 987, senate, all

Summary: The Senate took up a series of third-reading bills covering horse racing, local taxation, consumer financial security, elections, utilities, battery recycling, sexual health, body-worn camera privacy, property tax treatment for inherited homes, adoptee access to original birth certificates, a youth housing bond, workers’ compensation, and civil rights. Several measures were framed as technical or clarifying changes, while others addressed broader policy disputes over election security, immigration enforcement, utility oversight, and state borrowing for housing. Among the more debated items were SB 46, which would bar the California ballot from listing a presidential candidate who has already served two terms; SB 73, an urgency measure restricting county election officials from allowing federal agents to inspect voting machines; and SB 747, the “No Kings Act,” creating a state civil cause of action against federal, state, or local officers who violate constitutional rights. Supporters of SB 747 argued it was needed to address alleged abuses by federal immigration agents, while opponents said existing law already provides remedies and warned about added litigation and impacts on law enforcement. SB 492, a $1 billion youth housing bond, also drew debate over state debt and whether housing should be funded through bonds or other mechanisms. The chamber also considered SB 505, requiring money transmitters to use two-factor or multi-factor authentication; SB 501, expanding battery producer responsibility to medium-format batteries; SB 608, related to contraceptive access and school implementation; SB 691, allowing EMS-related redaction requests for body-worn camera footage; SB 288, clarifying Proposition 19 timing for inherited property in probate; SB 381, giving adopted adults access to original birth certificates; and SB 555, updating permanently partially disabled workers’ benefits. Votes were recorded on each measure, with most passing by party-line or near-party-line margins, while SB 795 and SB 288 passed unanimously. SB 73 and SB 747 both passed with urgency clauses, and SB 492, SB 555, and several other bills advanced after floor debate.

Transcript Highlights:

• In a lot of these cases, the sellers are elderly or are... A higher sales price and profit.
• Look, I just want to start by saying I support the intent of this bill.
• So what I would ask of you is to please support this bill.
• Laurie Adams, Pelican Institute, is in support, and Anthony Rutledge, CPA, is present and in support
• And in support, does not wish to speak.

Summary: The committee first deferred several bills, then took up House Bill 468 by Representative A-Bear, which would regulate wholesaling of residential real property by requiring disclosures, a right to cancel within 14 days, and other consumer protections. Representative A-Bear said the bill is meant to increase transparency without banning wholesaling, while committee members and witnesses debated whether the bill should instead focus on proof of funds or other safeguards. The committee adopted an amendment set that added disclosure of assignment fees, required a 1% earnest money deposit, and imposed a civil penalty for violations, then reported the bill favorably after hearing testimony from real estate professionals, title attorneys, and the Louisiana Real Estate Commission, many of whom supported transparency but urged changes to the rescission period and other provisions. Witnesses on HB 468 generally agreed there are bad actors in the wholesale market, especially in residential transactions involving distressed or unsophisticated sellers, but several argued the bill could interfere with legitimate local investors who close quickly and help move problem properties back into commerce. The Real Estate Commission explained that the bill creates a rebuttable presumption based on marketing activity and that the agency has enforcement tools even against unlicensed actors. Representative Jordan raised concerns about intent, assignability, and whether represented sellers need the same protections, and Representative A-Bear said he would continue working on the bill before floor debate. The committee then heard House Bill 548 by Representative Bowie, which changes CPA licensing by allowing either a master’s degree or an additional year of experience in place of the current extra undergraduate hours, while keeping the exam requirement the same. The bill also codifies board composition criteria and modernizes CPA mobility/practice privilege rules for out-of-state CPAs. After brief questions about enforcement and mobility, the committee heard support from the Louisiana Society of CPAs and others and reported the bill favorably. Finally, the committee took up House Bill 848 by Representative DeWitt on motor vehicle dealer licensing and repair facility requirements, adopted technical amendments, and then recessed.

Transcript Highlights:

• </c> what kind of supports are really needed? what kind of supports are really needed?
• </c><05:23:36.000><c> um</c> subsidized apartment with supports um subsidized apartment with supports
• </c> that were done, would you then support that were done, would you then support this<05:28:39.200>
• One of which is added support.
• So I am glad to support from that.

Keywords: 1189, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• He relies on other people to provide maximum physical support for anything he needs to do.
• he needs that are provided through home and community-based services and, more importantly, supported
• His supported living nonprofit provider operated at an $8 million deficit in 2025.
• It is time to fund supported living.
• We are essentially telling the sick and elderly that their health and dignity are less important than

Keywords: 1204, all

Transcript Highlights:

• I would ask for your support and yield for your questions, Mr. Chairman.
• Well, I sit here in support of this today.
• What is concerning to me is the elderly that are unable to pay their bills.
• I am in support of this.
• I appreciate the supportive debate of my colleagues.

Bills: SB1302, SB1389, SB1401, SB1776, SB1809, SB1858, SB1985, SB2053, SB2148

Keywords: income tax, tax rates, revenue certification, Oklahoma Tax Commission, state budget, education, tax credit, school choice, private school, tuition assistance, income limits, parental choice, accreditation, insurance, taxation, premium, home office credit, healthcare, teacher tax credit, income tax credit

Summary: The Revenue and Taxation Committee met and considered several bills. Senate Bill 1776, by Senator Pugh, would create a $10,000 refundable tax credit for teachers with seven consecutive years of service, as part of a teacher retention strategy; after questions about the seven-year threshold, it passed 8-3. Senate Bill 1858, by Senator Frix, would create a new TIF district financing option allowing developers, rather than cities or counties, to borrow against projected TIF revenues; the committee adopted an amendment changing a filing provision from “may” to “shall,” and the bill passed 7-4. Senate Bill 1985, by Senator Guthrie, would let state retirement systems consider limited investments in regulated digital assets, capped at 5% and narrowed to large-market-cap assets; the committee added an amendment inserting “in” to clarify the language, and the bill passed 9-2. The committee then rejected Senate Bill 1302, by Senator Kirt, which would repeal the “path to zero” trigger tied to future income tax cuts; it failed 2-9 after debate over fiscal stability and tax relief. Senate Bill 1809, by Senator Hamilton, would raise the homestead exemption from $1,000 to $5,000; members debated its impact on local governments and school funding, but it passed 9-2. Senate Bill 1401, by Senator Rader, was amended to adjust the insurance premium tax rate from 1.96% to 2.16% and eliminate the home office premium tax credit; the bill was laid over after concerns about its fiscal impact. Finally, Senate Bill 2053, also by Senator Rader, would allow cities and counties to impose up to a 10% excise tax on medical marijuana dispensaries by local vote, with OTC handling collections and enforcement; supporters framed it as local control and a way to offset public safety costs, while opponents argued it unfairly targeted dispensaries and consumers. The bill passed 7-3. The committee then adjourned and announced it would meet again the following Monday after floor activity.