Transcript Highlights:

• It's balanced for both 2026-27 and 2027-28 fiscal years.
• I did want to get to the H.R. 1 comments a little bit.
• But H.R. 1 also did increase our SALT limit, which was a big.
• I would share that concern, except that the Medi-Cal changes by H.R.1.
• We appreciate the proposition for funding and the 2026-27 budget package.

Summary: The Senate Budget and Fiscal Review Committee heard AB 109, the Budget Act of 2026, as the main item. Committee leaders described the legislative budget agreement as a balanced two-year plan with about $355.9 billion in total spending, $253 billion from the General Fund, and $36.5 billion in reserves. The Legislative Analyst and Department of Finance said the package assumes about $5.5 billion in higher revenues than the May Revision and uses those resources for a mix of spending changes, including higher Proposition 98 support, additional child care slots, housing and homelessness funding, delayed Medi-Cal reductions, and added support for counties, public hospitals, and distressed hospitals. The administration said the plan resembles the May Revision’s overall structure but includes new spending and revenue assumptions, and members noted that separate revenue trailer bills would be heard later in the week. Much of the committee discussion focused on Medi-Cal, H.R. 1, and the impact on immigrants, low-income workers, counties, and hospitals. Several senators criticized the budget for locking in savings from delayed or reduced Medi-Cal coverage and for not including a mechanism to restore eligibility, while administration and LAO staff said the package delays some reductions but does not automatically reinstate coverage. Finance staff said roughly 1.5 million to 2 million people with unsatisfactory immigration status would move from managed care to fee-for-service, with coverage largely unchanged except for certain services not federally allowed. Members also discussed county administrative funding, indigent care, public hospital support, and the expected rise in uncompensated care. Other topics included In-Home Supportive Services, child care, homelessness funding, Prop. 36, courthouse construction and new judgeships, transit and cap-and-invest/GGRF funding, local journalism, and workforce or reentry programs. Committee members split along party lines in their comments. Democratic members generally supported the agreement as a difficult but responsible compromise that protects core services, preserves reserves, and makes targeted investments in education, housing, health care, and justice system capacity. Republican members argued the budget relies on unrealistic revenue assumptions, does not sufficiently reduce spending, and includes costly policy choices and tax increases. Public testimony largely came from advocates and stakeholders who supported IHSS, Medi-Cal, child care, domestic violence services, hospitals, transit, and other programs, while some business and health plan representatives raised concerns about tax proposals and the shift from managed care to fee-for-service. The chair then moved the committee to public comment and indicated that the revenue bills would return later in the week; no final vote on AB 109 is reflected in the portion provided.

Transcript Highlights:

• For us, the 2026-27 May Revision includes $5.4 billion.
• The May Revision projects H.R. 1 disenrollment of 44,000 in 2026-27 and 1.3 million by 2029-30, which
• The May Revision projects H.R. 1 disenrollment of 44,000 in 2026-27 and 1.3 million by 2029-30, which
• This would be an MCO that's compliant with H.R. 1.
• So that'd be $1.2 billion to provide that health For 2026-27.

Summary: The Assembly Budget Subcommittee on Health held a May Revision hearing covering several health-related budget proposals and broader concerns about the state’s budget structure. The Chair opened by praising some May Revision changes, such as added health IT funding, county administration support tied to Medi-Cal changes, a delay in Medi-Cal cuts for some lawfully present immigrants, and additional support for Covered California subsidies, while criticizing proposed increases in Medi-Cal premiums, changes to senior eligibility, the lack of a Medi-Cal dental solution, and other reductions affecting counties, mobile crisis units, workforce incentives, and physician shortages. The Legislative Analyst’s Office said the state’s budget condition remains weak despite progress on the structural deficit, and the Department of Finance said the May Revision uses a mix of reductions, reforms, revenue proposals, and fund shifts to cut out-year deficits. The committee first heard Department of State Hospitals proposals, including adjustments to county bed billing authority, contract exemption language for online clinical/pharmacy subscriptions, reversion of unspent funds, a revised Metro Central Utility Plant replacement project, electronic health record implementation, and workforce development funded partly through Behavioral Health Services Act resources. DSH also described savings and realignments in incompetent-to-stand-trial and conditional release programs, including extending the independent placement panel program and shifting funds to support additional bed capacity and a mental health rehab center. Members asked about the use of BHSA funds for workforce programs, and the department said the proposal would replace General Fund support with BHSA reimbursements. The Emergency Medical Services Authority proposed funding for statewide behavioral health crisis response guidance and for enterprise system development, and the Department of Managed Health Care proposed modernization of its complaint system and claims-settlement data system to improve oversight and comply with AB 3275. The largest discussion centered on the administration’s BHSA spending plan under Proposition 1, including state-directed prevention, workforce, and other uses, plus General Fund offsets for existing programs. The LAO questioned whether some proposed offsets fit Proposition 1’s non-supplant and eligible-use requirements, while the administration argued the uses were consistent with the measure and that the state-directed share can be adjusted annually. The Commission for Behavioral Health’s proposals drew the most public and member concern. The administration proposed cutting the commission’s Innovation Partnership Fund from $20 million to $10 million and reducing the Community Advocacy Program by $6.7 million, while redirecting BHSA dollars to other state purposes and direct services. Commissioners, advocates, and several members argued the cuts would weaken community voice, reduce support for underserved populations, and disrupt grants already in process; they also objected to using BHSA funds to backfill General Fund commitments. Public commenters, including youth, disability, behavioral health, LGBTQ, tribal, veteran, immigrant, and community-based organization representatives, overwhelmingly opposed the cuts and urged preservation of prevention, advocacy, mobile crisis, and innovation funding. No votes or final actions were taken during the hearing.

Transcript Highlights:

• </c><00:27:06.799><c> When</c><00:27:07.120><c> someone</c><00:27:07.679><c> chants</c><00:27:08.480>
• When<00:27:18.320><c> someone</c><00:27:18.720><c> says</c><00:27:19.039><c> from</c><00:27:19.200><c
• </c><00:27:28.080><c> We</c><00:27:28.400><c> have</c><00:27:28.559><c> to</c><00:27:28.720><c> make<
• </c><00:27:31.279><c> Are</c><00:27:31.440><c> we</c><00:27:31.679><c> going</c><00:27:31.919><c> to<
• Are we going to call<00:27:32.559><c> evil</c><00:27:33.360><c> by</c><00:27:33.600><c> its</c><00:27

Bills: HB1804 , HB1642 , HB1621 , HB1634 , HR789 , HR787 , HB1816 , HB3490 , SB160

Keywords: 7(a) loan program, Small Business Administration, SBA, small business lending, loan brokers, loan consultants, referral agents, loan intermediaries, fraud oversight, transparency, reporting requirements, loan fees, referral fees, interest rates, business financing, small business loans, lender oversight, application assistance, Congressional reporting, small business

Transcript Highlights:

• It's balanced for both 2026-27 and 2027-28 fiscal years.
• I did want to get to the H.R. 1 comments a little bit.
• But H.R. 1 also did increase our SALT limit, which was a big...
• I would share that concern, except that the Medi-Cal changes by H.R. 1...
• We appreciate the Proposition 1 funding and the 2026-27 budget package.

Committee: Senate Budget and Fiscal Review

Transcript Highlights:

• I respectfully ask for your I vote on H.R. 14. Support.
• I rise in strong support of H.R. 14. It's one of those no-brainer resolutions.
• I respectfully ask and I vote for H.R. 14. Thank you.
• I respectfully ask for your I vote for H.R. 14.
• 27 is Dora Westerlin, escorted by Assembly Member Soria.

Summary: The Assembly convened after a quorum call and prayer, then dispensed with the reading of the prior journal and handled routine motions, including re-referring AB 432 and AB 564 to committees. The main item of business was House Resolution 14, proclaiming March 2025 as Women’s History Month. Majority Leader Aguiar-Curry opened on the resolution, and members from the LGBTQ, Native American, Asian American Pacific Islander, Black, Latino, Jewish, and other caucuses spoke in support, emphasizing women’s historical contributions, ongoing inequities, and the importance of representation and parity in public life. Assemblymember DeMaio also supported the resolution while urging attention to girls’ sports. The resolution was adopted by voice vote after 78 coauthors were added. The chamber then held its annual California Women of the Year ceremony, with Aguiar-Curry and other members recognizing honorees from across Assembly districts for leadership in education, health care, public service, advocacy, business, and community work. The lengthy roll call highlighted a broad range of women’s accomplishments and community impact. Guest introductions followed, including Sacramento District Attorney Tien Ho, VSP Vision Care executives celebrating the company’s 70th anniversary, and EMTs and ambulance support staff being honored by the California Ambulance Association. The Assembly also took up the second-day consent calendar, which was adopted 71-0. Assemblymember Schultz then delivered an adjournment in memory of Barbara Beckley, founding member and artistic director emerita of the Colony Theatre Company, praising her contributions to Los Angeles theater and the arts. The House then adjourned until Thursday, March 13 at 9 a.m., with a Revenue and Taxation Committee hearing scheduled upon adjournment.

Transcript Highlights:

• That resolution becomes H.R. 250.
• That resolution becomes H.R. 261.
• Next bill: H.R. 206.
• H.R. 27 by Representative Spell, to urge and request the Department of Health and the Department of Education
• H.R. 27, by up some of spell, to urge your request of the Department of Health, Department of Education

Bills: HR257 , HR258 , HR259 , HR260 , HR261 , HR262 , HR263 , HCR105 , HCR106 , HR252 , HR253 , HR254 , HR255 , HR256 , HCR103 , HCR104 , SB83 , SB143 , SB155 , SB228 , SB283 , SB295 , SB338 , SB388 , SB408 , SB431 , HR84 , HR188 , HR205 , HB302 , HB597 , HB819 , HB1257 , HB1258 , SCR24 , SB45 , SB58 , SB71 , SB81 , SB92 , SB100 , SB109 , SB141 , SB156 , SB181 , SB203 , SB204 , SB205 , SB207 , SB213 , SB214 , SB216 , SB229 , SB257 , SB274 , SB290 , SB304 , SB374 , SB379 , SB396 , SB410 , SB425 , SB427 , SB429 , SB479 , SB522 , SB357 , SB406 , HR171 , HCR49 , HCR65 , HCR72 , HR37 , HCR64 , HR170 , HR191 , HR206 , HR207 , HR208 , HR217 , HCR11 , HCR53 , HCR60 , HCR66 , HCR68 , HR9 , HCR27 , HCR28 , HCR50 , HCR62 , HCR67 , HCR71 , HCR78 , HCR81 , SCR19 , SCR3 , SCR6 , SCR18 , SCR11 , SCR22 , SCR2 , SCR20 , 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 , HB301 , HB359 , HB657 , HB675 , HB680 , HB727 , HB79 , HB251 , HB625 , HB769 , HB775 , HB783 , HB895 , HB1011 , HB1057 , HB1155 , HB1186 , HB1224 , HB1245 , HB1247 , HB1253 , HB1254 , HB1255 , HB1256 , 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 , 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 , HB646 , HB824 , HB341 , HB682 , HB766 , HB926 , HB998 , HB1051 , HB1080 , HB1201 , HB1223 , HB603 , HB940 , HB1191 , SB47 , HB901 , HR20 , HR74 , HB284 , HB306 , HB366 , HB393 , HB458 , HB577 , HB582 , HB605 , HB614 , HB733 , HB752 , HB773 , HB798 , HB911 , HB955 , HB996 , HB1035 , HB1069 , HB1113 , HB1140 , HB1180 , HB1240 , SB82 , SB89 , SB149 , SB382

Summary: The House convened with 93 members present, opened with prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, and then spent much of the morning recognizing guests and former members, including student groups, arts educators, rodeo queens, and Congressman Troy Carter, who urged members not to let partisan divisions harm Louisiana. Representative Newell also delivered a lengthy floor statement tying current voting-rights debates to civil rights concerns and warning against weakening protections for Black communities. The chamber then received Senate messages and committee reports, and several resolutions and bills were advanced or referred in routine order. A large portion of the meeting was devoted to House resolutions, many of them memorials or study requests. The House adopted resolutions supporting a physical therapy degree designation for federal loan purposes, honoring veterans who served in Honduras, extending a behavioral health courts study, seeking bridge-removal funding for U.S. 90 in St. Tammany Parish, urging DOTD studies on local traffic projects, requesting a study of rural economic development, supporting Camp Beauregard and the National Guard Youth Challenge Program, creating a permit-study committee, and asking for studies on autism services, school nurse orientation, opioid treatment in correctional settings, floodplain map updates, and care gaps for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. One resolution on rent stabilization failed, and another on pregnancy-related emergency medication was returned to the calendar after questions about its implications. The chamber also concurred in or rejected several Senate amendments to House bills. Concurrences included bills on arrest warrant recall procedures, disturbing the peace near places of worship, rape and sex offense provisions, bridge naming, holiday rules, victim confidentiality, and the classic black license plate. The House rejected Senate amendments to HB 258 on dual office holding and dual employment. The most contentious item was HB 102, which would create second-degree cruelty to the elderly and persons with infirmities but was amended in the Senate to add broader first-degree murder provisions tied to firearms and public shootings; members raised concerns about self-defense, overcharging, capital punishment exposure, and fiscal impact on the public defender system. Despite those objections, supporters argued the changes would deter violent crime and protect the public, and the bill was ultimately supported in floor debate as amended.

Transcript Highlights:

• Chris Bauer, H.R. 360 by Martinez Half, H.R. 363 by Curry, Midway ISD, H.R. 374 by Simmons, Jack Yates
• Overstreet, H.R. 15 by Raymond, Peggy Jean Newman, H.R. 19 by Cole, William Matthew Begar, H.R. 23 by
• Overstreet, H.R. 15 by Raymond, Peggy Jean Newman, H.R. 19 by Cole, William Matthew Begar, H.R. 23 by
• the committee on local and consent calendars HR 425 H.R. 428 and H.R. 432, H.R. 429 by Hicklin, H.R.
• 430 by Orr, H.R. 431 by Wally, H.R. 434 by Meyer, H.R. 435 by Troxler, H.R. 438 by Lujan.

Bills: HCR21 , HCR22 , HCR23 , HCR24 , HCR25 , HCR26 , HCR27 , HCR31 , HCR41 , HCR42 , HCR43 , HCR44 , HCR45 , HCR52 , HCR53 , HCR66 , HCR67 , HCR73 , HR8 , HR10 , HR13 , HR20 , HR21 , HR50 , HR59 , HR61 , HR71 , HR74 , HR79 , HR84 , HR86 , HR90 , HR91 , HR102 , HR103 , HR107 , HR113 , HR125 , HR126 , HR132 , HR142 , HR145 , HR149 , HR150 , HR152 , HR167 , HR179 , HR181 , HR183 , HR186 , HR192 , HR196 , HR199 , HR207 , HR211 , HR212 , HR213 , HR216 , HR249 , HR256 , HR259 , HR261 , HR263 , HR272 , HR281 , HR285 , HR294 , HR295 , HR300 , HR305 , HR311 , HR313 , HR315 , HR316 , HR323 , HR331 , HR339 , HR340 , HR346 , HR349 , HR352 , HR357 , HR358 , HR360 , HR363 , HR374 , HR377 , HCR20 , HCR28 , HCR30 , HCR32 , HCR49 , HR14 , HR15 , HR19 , HR23 , HR24 , HR25 , HR26 , HR27 , HR29 , HR47 , HR48 , HR55 , HR56 , HR66 , HR85 , HR92 , HR93 , HR95 , HR96 , HR140 , HR155 , HR164 , HR204 , HR241 , HR242 , HR250 , HR253 , HR260 , HR262 , HR265 , HR279 , HR310 , HR312 , HR328 , HR332 , HR359 , HR362 , HR367

Keywords: recognition, award, petroleum industry, leadership, community service, HCR 22, House Concurrent Resolution, Texas Legislature, commendation, honorary resolution, Dr. James Olson, James Olson, University of Texas Permian Basin, UT Permian Basin, psychology professor, 50 years of service, faculty recognition, academic award, Piper Professor Award, Regents' Outstanding Teaching Award

Transcript Highlights:

• That is H.R. 127 by Assembly Member Haney. File item number 30.
• That is H.R. 127 by Assembly Member Haney. Clerk will read.
• This is why I introduced H.R. 129, which recognizes July...
• Today I respectfully ask for your support for H.R. 129.
• Members, today I rise as a proud joint author of H.R. 129.

Summary: The Assembly convened after a quorum call, prayer, and pledge, then moved through a largely ceremonial and floor-action-heavy session. Early business included unanimous consent motions, removal of several Senate bills from the consent calendar, and recognition of the 2025-26 Assembly Fellows and California Council on Science and Technology Policy Fellows. The chamber also welcomed several student and community guests, including National Science Bowl champions from Mission San Jose High School and a group of fifth graders touring the Capitol. One concurrence item, AB 2106, was adopted 65-0 after the author explained Senate amendments expanding enhanced vote-vetting requirements to geologists and geophysicists. The floor then took up several resolutions and one appropriations bill. ACR 199 recognizing India’s Independence Day was adopted by voice vote after remarks highlighting Indian American contributions and the role of the Sikh community in India’s independence movement. HR 119 recognizing International Referees Day was adopted, with 59 coauthors added, and the chamber honored referee Marcia Barclay. HR 125 declaring August as Chicano Heritage Month was adopted with 61 coauthors, with members speaking about Chicano history, civil rights, military service, and economic contributions. ACR 221 on sudden cardiac arrest awareness among student athletes was adopted by voice vote, and AB 2597, an urgency appropriation bill paying specified claims against the state, passed 60-0 on both the urgency clause and the measure. The Assembly also adopted ACR 231 designating Coastal Stewardship Day, with members discussing coastal protection, wetlands, climate change, and marine ecology, and ACR 234 declaring California Wine Month, which passed after remarks on the wine industry’s economic importance and challenges. HR 126 proclaiming September as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month drew extensive, emotional testimony from the author and several members about suicide loss, youth mental health, LGBTQ+ youth, Native communities, and prevention resources; it was adopted with 63 coauthors. HR 127 recognizing Transgender History Month was also adopted after debate focused on transgender history in California, current attacks on transgender people, and the importance of dignity and safety; 47 coauthors were added. Finally, HR 129 recognizing Sarcoma Awareness Month passed with 60 coauthors after members discussed pediatric sarcoma, rare cancer awareness, and a cluster of Ewing sarcoma cases in South Orange County. The consent calendar, including ACR 233 on Sepsis Awareness Month, was adopted 63-0, and the chamber then moved toward adjournments in memory.

Transcript Highlights:

• :11.480><c> is</c><00:27:12.360><c> hardly</c><00:27:13.360><c> a</c><00:27:13.720><c> puny</c><00:27
• ><c> what</c><00:27:19.399><c> the</c><00:27:19.640><c> real</c><00:27:20.200><c> scam</c><00:27:21.000
• ><c> people</c><00:27:25.200><c> that</c><00:27:25.360><c> you</c><00:27:25.600><c> need</c><00:27:26.039
• ><c> did</c><00:27:38.760><c> not</c><00:27:39.240><c> have</c><00:27:39.440><c> to</c><00:27:39.720>
• :51.200><c> he</c><00:27:51.720><c> is</c><00:27:52.519><c> placing</c><00:27:53.519><c> his</c><00:27

Bills: HR758 , HR856 , HR153 , HR872 , HB1515

Keywords: fencing, youth development, underserved communities, athletics, Peter Westbrook, scholarships, academic achievement, SNAP, nutrition assistance, contingency funds, government shutdown, hunger prevention, vulnerable populations, federal funding, condolences, aviation safety, transportation disaster, victims support, first responders, Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease

Transcript Highlights:

• </c><00:27:19.440><c> In</c><00:27:19.679><c> fact,</c><00:27:19.919><c> one</c><00:27:20.320><c> mom
• </c><00:27:20.720><c> came</c><00:27:20.880><c> up</c><00:27:21.039><c> to</c><00:27:21.200><c> me</c
• <c> could</c><00:27:22.400><c> you</c><00:27:22.559><c> vote</c><00:27:22.960><c> to</c><00:27:23.279
• "<00:27:27.440><c> And</c><00:27:27.679><c> for</c><00:27:27.919><c> about</c><00:27:28.159><c> five<
• 27:31.120><c> bill</c><00:27:31.440><c> is</c><00:27:32.159><c> versus</c><00:27:32.480><c> what</c><

Bills: HB1717 , HR580

Keywords: communications security, reliability, interoperability, FCC, public interest, council, rules resolution, House Rules Committee, structured rule, appropriations, Department of Defense, DoD appropriations, fiscal year 2026, defense spending, digital commodities, cryptocurrency regulation, digital assets, SEC, Commodity Futures Trading Commission, CFTC

Transcript Highlights:

• And this is H.R. 1, or this is part of the asset test that... It's H.R. 1. This is H.R. 1.
• That is our understanding under H.R. 1.
• So under H.R. 1, but prior to H.R. 1, DHCS did not consider a person's primary residence as part of their
• H.R. 1 requirements more broadly.
• Maybe the counties could absorb it if we didn't have H.R. 1, but with H.R. 1, it just ends up being a

Transcript Highlights:

• /c><03:27:06.399><c> in</c><03:27:06.640><c> the</c><03:27:06.800><c> face</c><03:27:06.960><c> of</c
• of the PRC's<03:27:08.120><c> persistent</c><03:27:09.120><c> use</c><03:27:09.359><c> of</c><03:27:
• /c><03:27:25.920><c> congressional</c><03:27:26.399><c> visit</c><03:27:26.640><c> to</c><03:27:26.880
• ><c> and</c><03:27:50.239><c> build</c><03:27:50.479><c> resilience</c><03:27:51.359><c> in</c><03:27
• Since 1979,<03:27:57.120><c> in</c><03:27:57.359><c> order</c><03:27:57.520><c> to</c><03:27:57.760><

Bills: HR36 , HR530 , HB1800 , HB2416 , HR1316 , HB1724 , HB1540 , HB1486 , HB1512 , HB1503 , HB1912

Keywords: federal programs, government efficiency, budget cuts, committee, oversight, rules resolution, House Rules Committee, procedural rule, floor procedure, appropriations, military construction, Veterans Affairs, VA funding, fiscal year 2026, immigration enforcement, special interest aliens, DHS reporting, monthly report, inadmissible, deportable

Transcript Highlights:

• &gt;&gt; The<04:27:26.319><c> yays</c><04:27:26.640><c> and</c><04:27:26.800><c> nays</c><04:27:27.040
• All those<04:27:28.080><c> in</c><04:27:28.239><c> favor</c><04:27:28.560><c> of</c><04:27:28.800><c>
• ><c> and</c><04:27:30.399><c> nas</c><04:27:30.800><c> will</c><04:27:30.960><c> rise</c><04:27:31.279
• I yield<05:27:01.680><c> myself</c><05:27:02.080><c> as</c><05:27:02.320><c> much</c><05:27:02.480><c
• But let<05:27:11.200><c> me</c><05:27:11.440><c> point</c><05:27:11.600><c> out</c><05:27:12.160><c>

Bills: HR539 , HR747 , HB4216 , HB2635 , HB4233 , HB4490 , HB2503 , HB2643 , HB4215

Keywords: LaMonica McIver, censure, House of Representatives discipline, Homeland Security Committee, removal from committee, Newark, Delaney Hall, immigration detention facility, federal officers, assault on federal officer, resisting arrest, interfering with federal officers, ICE, Homeland Security Investigations, HSI, congressional ethics, House resolution, disciplinary resolution, 18 U.S.C. 111, immigration enforcement

Transcript Highlights:

• :27:09.679><c> to</c><00:27:09.840><c> get</c><00:27:09.919><c> an</c><00:27:10.080><c> infection,</c
• It<00:27:14.240><c> ensures</c><00:27:14.720><c> access</c><00:27:15.039><c> to</c><00:27:15.279><c>
• It's<02:27:04.080><c> getting</c><02:27:04.399><c> old</c><02:27:05.200><c> and</c><02:27:05.439><c>
• I</c><02:27:05.680><c> for</c><02:27:05.840><c> one</c><02:27:06.000><c> am</c><02:27:06.240><c> sick
• </c><02:27:07.920><c> This</c><02:27:08.319><c> president</c><02:27:08.880><c> and</c><02:27:09.200><

Bills: HR1115 , SB3971 , HB4294

Keywords: rules resolution, special rule, House procedure, floor consideration, lead ammunition, lead tackle, fishing tackle, hunting, wildlife management, federal lands, federal waters, Department of the Interior, Department of Agriculture, immigration and nationality act, inadmissible, deportable, public benefits fraud, fraud against the United States, alien deportation, law enforcement animals

Transcript Highlights:

• We were anticipating H.R. 1.
• As a reminder, H.R. 1 restricts med school loans.
• H.R. 1 will certainly harm this network.
• H.R. 1 fundamentally...
• As we prepare... ...beyond the 2026-27 year.

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:

• Six permanent positions to support H.R. 1 as well.
• And this was before any H.R. 1 implementations occurred.
• However, the H.R. 1 policy has not kicked in.
• And so it is possible that it's H.R. 1 related.
• And then in 2026-27, we're proposing $38 million.

Summary: The committee heard opening budget remarks from the Department of Finance and the Legislative Analyst’s Office on the May Revision for Health and Human Services. Finance said the proposal significantly reduces projected out-year operating deficits through a mix of revenue increases and program cost reductions, while the LAO warned that even with booming revenues the state still faces a structural deficit and should prioritize reserves and avoid new ongoing commitments. The chair and members echoed concern about cuts to vulnerable populations, but also noted the need to maintain the overall level of budget solutions and add to reserves. The hearing then moved through a series of CalHHS and HCAI proposals, mostly held open after presentation. CalHHS requested additional legal support to respond to federal H.R. 1-related issues and a net-zero transfer of positions for a shared eligibility/data-sharing platform. Other items included ongoing funding for the 988 Behavioral Health Crisis Service Fund and a request for EMSA to fund maintenance of its enterprise data management system. HCAI presented proposals for hospital fair pricing implementation, the data exchange framework, the all-payer claims database, CalRx insulin development, the diaper access initiative, distressed hospital grants, opioid settlement fund reversion, and the Rural Health Transformation Program. Members questioned funding sources, special fund use, contracting exemptions, timelines, and whether some proposals should be more targeted or supported by alternative funding. A major discussion centered on HCAI’s diaper access initiative and the use of a Public Contract Code exemption to continue contracting for free diapers distributed through hospitals. The chair and some members criticized the optics of the selected vendor and questioned the lack of an income threshold, while HCAI said the program was designed to be universal and administratively simple, with future phase-two direct-to-consumer purchasing to be handled by a different vendor. Another extended exchange focused on distressed hospital funding, where HCAI said the May Revision would provide up to $50 million for hospitals at immediate risk of closure, but members argued the repeated annual need shows a structural problem and asked for broader reforms to hospital payment and care transitions. The final major topic was the Behavioral Health Services Oversight and Accountability Commission’s budget. The Commission opposed the May Revision’s reduction of the Innovation Partnership Fund from $20 million to $10 million and a $6.7 million cut to community advocacy contracts, arguing both are core Proposition 1 tools for statewide innovation and community engagement. Finance responded that the proposal is within Proposition 1’s allowable maximums and that prior unspent appropriations could be redirected if the Legislature wanted to restore the full amount. No votes were taken; items were generally held open for later action.

Transcript Highlights:

• And so with that, I respectfully ask for your aye vote on H.R. 98. Thank you.
• I urge your support for H.R. 98. Thank you, Assembly Member Ramos.
• That is H.R. 100 by Dr. Bains. The clerk will read.
• Speaker, and members, I respectfully ask for your aye vote on H.R. 100.
• I urge all to support H.R. 60. Thank you, Assembly Member Ramos. I urge all to support H.R. 60.

Summary: The Assembly convened without a quorum, then quorum was established and the chamber proceeded with prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, journal approval, and a series of procedural motions. Members approved multiple unanimous-consent requests to suspend rules, re-refer bills to committees, and allow committees to notice bills pending re-referral. The day also included several guest introductions recognizing student leaders, public power executive Randy Howard, a family member of Assemblymember Gallagher, higher education leaders, Leadership Torrance, and the Vacaville PAL program. On the floor, the Assembly adopted several resolutions and heard extensive remarks in support of them. ACR 160, proclaiming April 2026 as Parkinson’s Disease Awareness Month, was adopted by voice vote after co-authors were added. H.R. 98, designating California Holocaust Memorial Day, received broad bipartisan support and was adopted after 76 co-authors were added. H.R. 100, recognizing Vaisakhi, also passed by voice vote after 73 co-authors were added, with members highlighting Sikh history, service, and cultural contributions. The Assembly then took up several bills on the third-reading file. AB 1977, relating to online notarization and notaries public, passed 69-5. AB 1987, which would direct wildlife-area fees back to operation and maintenance of state wildlife areas, passed 69-0. Other items on the second- and third-reading files were passed and retained, continued, or placed on the consent calendar as noted by the presiding officer. The session concluded with adjournment-in-memory tributes for La Mesa Police Officer Lauren Craven, community organizer Cynthia Brantley Pierce, coach John Beam, and Ralph Cavallo. The Assembly then adjourned until Thursday, April 16, at 9 a.m.

Transcript Highlights:

• With H.R. 1, it's a gaping wound. Thank you.
• Now we come to the impacts of H.R. 1 in particular.
• So we're already losing our co-workers to H.R. 1.
• . 1 from the H.R. 1 cuts.
• .1 from the H.R.1 cuts.

Transcript Highlights:

• $27-28.
• Most notably, changes to that agreement include $1.3 billion General Fund in 2026-27.
• Changes to that agreement include $1.3 billion General Fund in 2026-27 for Medi-Cal to implement H.R.
• The 2026-27 three-party agreement is a responsible, balanced, and prudent plan.
• And for delaying the proposed cuts affecting H.R. 1 populations' access to Medi-Cal.

Committee: House Budget

Transcript Highlights:

• H.R. 1 adds to these.
• And we don't need H.R. 1 to help us do that.
• So we're already losing our co-workers to H.R. 1.
• . 1 from the H.R. 1 cuts.
• .1 from the H.R.1 cuts.

Summary: The committee held its second hearing on CalFresh enrollment and nutrition, focused on the effects of H.R. 1 on eligibility, administration, and food access in California. The Legislative Analyst’s Office and the Department of Social Services outlined major federal changes: expanded work requirements for able-bodied adults without dependents, narrowed eligibility for certain lawfully present non-citizens, and new state and county cost-sharing for both administrative and benefit costs. Officials said about 665,000 Californians could lose benefits under the work requirement, roughly 72,000 non-citizens could lose eligibility, and California could face hundreds of millions to billions in new costs depending on error rates and implementation details. DSS described its mitigation efforts, including county guidance, trainings, automation, outreach materials, and coordination with workforce programs, while county representatives argued the workload is larger than current funding assumptions and that staffing and training needs are urgent. Members also heard from a CalFresh recipient, Lauren Keltz, who described how benefits helped her family during her daughter’s medical crisis and how a clerical error led to the loss of food, health, and cash assistance, contributing to homelessness and food insecurity. Her testimony was used to underscore the consequences of administrative errors and benefit disruptions. Grocery and agriculture representatives said CalFresh is not only an anti-hunger program but also a major economic driver, with benefits spent locally at grocery stores, farmers markets, and farm stands. They warned that cuts would reduce demand for fresh food, hurt independent grocers and small farmers, and increase reliance on food banks, while urging continued support for market match and farm-to-food-bank programs. In the second panel, advocates and local administrators emphasized the human and operational impacts of the federal changes. The California Immigrant Policy Center called for expanding the state-funded California Food Assistance Program to cover more immigrants excluded by H.R. 1. A San Francisco eligibility worker and a San Diego county administrator said the new rules will add substantial casework, require more client outreach and exemption screening, and strain already limited staffing. Justice in Aging stressed that CalFresh is a key anti-hunger tool for older adults and people with disabilities, especially as housing and health costs rise, and supported outreach funding for seniors. Throughout the hearing, members discussed the need for state funding, better automation, and stronger county and community partnerships to reduce disenrollment and protect access to food.