Video & Transcript Research : 'STARS program'
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KY
Kentucky 2025 Regular Session
Make America Healthy Again Kentucky Task Force (11-5-25)
Transcript Highlights:
- Tobacco Prevention and Control Program. Tobacco Prevention and Control Program.
- programs offer glucose monitor. programs offer glucose monitor.
- medicine program in eastern Kentucky. medicine program in eastern Kentucky.
- Um programs.
- , which is sort of a program within a program.
Summary:
The task force opened with a moment of silence for the Louisville UPS plane tragedy, approved the October 15 minutes, and reminded members to submit policy recommendations before the December 16 meeting, when the group will discuss its report to LRC. The first informational presentation, from the Department for Public Health, focused on youth vaping. Elizabeth Good and Julie Brooks cited a recent Surgeon General report warning that youth vaping can harm brain development, mental health, lungs, asthma, and hormones, and noted Kentucky survey data showing 8.7% of students reported daily vaping and 19.7% used vaping products in the prior 30 days. They described prevention and cessation resources including Catch My Breath, I Can End the Trend, Not on Tobacco, My Life, My Quit, Quitline services, and the Kentucky TRUST retailer education program, which trained 3,371 individuals in 2024 and distributed 253 Tobacco 21 toolkits.
The next presentation came from Kentucky ABC on implementation of SB 100, which created the division of tobacco, nicotine, and vapor product licensing. Commissioner Scotty Tracy and Jamar Carter said all retailers selling tobacco, nicotine, or vapor products must be licensed, regulations were filed October 31, 2025, and the online application portal is live. In response to questions about sales to minors, they said violations carry escalating fines for clerks and owners, with a fourth violation resulting in no license renewal for two years and unpaid fines also blocking renewal. They said complaints can be submitted through the portal, by phone, or on the ABC website, and enforcement investigates tips and may use underage compliance checks.
The committee then heard from Kim McKenna Johnson of One Cross Community Health, who argued for a “deficiency-first” and holistic approach to care centered on nutrition, lifestyle, and targeted supplementation. She said her clinic serves more than 7,000 patients in Taylor and Marion counties and described a model that includes primary care, behavioral health, functional medicine, addiction recovery, and chronic care. She cited Kentucky health rankings, claimed nutritional deficiencies cost the state billions, and said many children are overprescribed while undernourished. She urged broader insurance coverage for nutritional testing and supplements, rural demonstration grants, and Medicaid pilots for clinically prescribed supplements. Members asked about testing costs, dietitian support, long-term cost savings, compliance, and whether medications are often used to prevent damage from noncompliance; the presenter said the lab tests are generally covered, supplements are the main cost barrier, and seeing lab results can improve family buy-in. No votes were taken during the meeting.
AZ
Transcript Highlights:
- was a strong supporter of Cade's law, which passed the House unanimously, a recipient of the Bronze Star
- Megan Keller and Cade's stepdad Brian Cooper, Navy SEAL, retired, also a recipient of the Bronze Star
- That's how many five stars it should get. And I thank you so very much to the right.
- That's how many five stars it's to get, and I thank you so very much the representative for pulling it
- I have nothing against Bronze Star medal license plate or any other plate that's being put forward, but
Summary:
The House opened with prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, approval of the journal, guest introductions, and several personal privilege remarks, including a proclamation recognizing March 10 as Cade’s Day in honor of Cade Keller and teen suicide prevention efforts. Members also welcomed guests from local governments, schools, and the medical community, and the chamber received routine committee and Senate messages.
The House then considered several bills in Committee of the Whole. HB 2946 and HB 4018 were amended and given do-pass recommendations, with HB 2946 receiving a floor amendment tied to housing cost concerns. On the main calendar, HB 2083, HB 2308, and HB 2388 were amended and advanced; HB 2389, dealing with energy and environmental review, drew debate over utility costs versus environmental oversight and was also advanced. The House retained HB 4030 and HCR 2052 on the calendar.
During third reading, the House passed HB 2047 on forcible entry and detainer, HB 2127 on special license plates, HB 2344 on local government investment pools, HB 2371 on dissolution of marriage, HB 2140 on state investment in gold and silver, HB 2429 on short-term rentals, HB 2434 on the prescription monitoring program, HB 2437 on emergency medical services, HB 2444 on pharmacy-based testing and treatment, HB 2573 on DUI-related treatment, HB 2601 on state highways and routes, HB 2620 on veterans’ services funding, HB 2781 on solar energy power plants, HB 2914 on long-term care cameras, HB 2968 on child custody evidence, HB 4043 on public schools, HB 4064 on municipal improvement districts, HB 4130 on local government budgets, and HCM 2016 renaming a stretch of US 191 as Chief Barbonsito Highway. HB 2123 on financial institutions failed on reconsideration, and HB 2726 on sleep apnea treatment devices failed. Several measures passed with notable split votes and floor explanations focused on housing, licensing, health care access, veterans, family court reform, and tribal sovereignty. The House then adjourned until Wednesday, March 11, 2026 at 1:15 p.m.
OK
Oklahoma 2026 Regular Session
House of Representatives Second Regular Session of the 60th Legislature Day 36 Apr 7th, 2026 at 09:30 am
Oklahoma House Floor Meeting
Bills:
SB330, SB2069, SB2095, SB1721, SB1433, SB1316, SB1280, SB1455, SB1456, SB1457, SB1459, SB1461, SB1463, SB1465, SB1466, HJR1088, SB1684, SB378, SB1447, SB1920, SB1443, HR1047, SB1877, SB1884, SB1365, SB2174, SB1525, SB1810, SB1771, SB1805, SB1916, SB1530, SB1847, SB1990, SB2060, SB1992, SB1579, SB1778, SB2132, SB1623, SB2067, SB1589, SB1441, SB1224, SB372, SB1232, SB1264, SB1450, SB2011, SB2030, SB1980, SB1936, SB1477, SB1593, SB1725, SB1670, SB1480, SB1726, SB1633, SB1735, SB1632, SB1277, SB1217, SB1826, SB1824, SB1813, SB1326, SB1937, SB1641
Keywords:
elk population, wildlife management, Oklahoma State University, veterinary medicine, ecosystem health, habitat assessment, waterfowl hunting, crane hunting, hunting guide, hunting outfitter, wildlife conservation, commercial hunting, outfitter license, guide license, hunting services, licensed guide, licensed outfitter, game and fish, hunting for compensation, waterfowl guide
HI
Bills:
HCR6, HCR36, HCR175, HCR197, HB48, HB54, HB86, HB127, HB139, HB177, HB202, HB212, HB214, HB244, HB256, HB286, HB306, HB309, HB344, HB348, HB369, HB370, HB371, HB395, HB423, HB428, HB429, HB432, HB433, HB437, HB448, HB454, HB455, HB472, HB480, HB510, HB549, HB563, HB596, HB606, HB620, HB664, HB697, HB698, HB701, HB706, HB714, HB740, HB773, HB782, HB784, HB833, HB850, HB904, HB918, HB939, HB988, HB1020, HB1036, HB1037, HB1039, HB1050, HB1059, HB1079, HB1145, HB1155, HB1161, HB1164, HB1167, HB1260, HB1294, HB1295, HB1297, HB1308, HB1320, HB1325, HB1345, HB1391, HB1427, SB21, SB26, SB71, SB109, SB146, SB177, SB183, SB228, SB253, SB298, SB299, SB325, SB382, SB401, SB414, SB440, SB657, SB717, HB2001
Keywords:
emergency medical treatment, abortion services, pregnancy care, reproductive health, hospitals, EMTALA, healthcare access, sister-state relationship, cultural exchange, international relations, Okayama, Hawaii, trade, tourism, Pacific governance, legislative cooperation, inter-parliamentary assembly, climate resilience, sustainable development, Hawaii-Japan relations
HI
Bills:
HCR6, HCR36, HCR175, HCR197, HB48, HB54, HB86, HB127, HB139, HB177, HB202, HB212, HB214, HB244, HB256, HB286, HB306, HB309, HB344, HB348, HB369, HB370, HB371, HB395, HB423, HB428, HB429, HB432, HB433, HB437, HB448, HB454, HB455, HB472, HB480, HB510, HB549, HB563, HB596, HB606, HB620, HB664, HB697, HB698, HB701, HB706, HB714, HB740, HB773, HB782, HB784, HB833, HB850, HB904, HB918, HB939, HB988, HB1020, HB1036, HB1037, HB1039, HB1050, HB1059, HB1079, HB1145, HB1155, HB1161, HB1164, HB1167, HB1260, HB1294, HB1295, HB1297, HB1308, HB1320, HB1325, HB1345, HB1391, HB1427, SB21, SB26, SB71, SB109, SB146, SB177, SB183, SB228, SB253, SB298, SB299, SB325, SB382, SB401, SB414, SB440, SB657, SB717, HB2001
Keywords:
emergency medical treatment, abortion services, pregnancy care, reproductive health, hospitals, EMTALA, healthcare access, sister-state relationship, cultural exchange, international relations, Okayama, Hawaii, trade, tourism, Pacific governance, legislative cooperation, inter-parliamentary assembly, climate resilience, sustainable development, Hawaii-Japan relations
MN
Transcript Highlights:
- cleanup program, which was simply to put a two-foot cap of clay on top.
- cleanup program, which was simply to put a two-foot cap of clay on top.
- <00:12:38.720>
program <00:12:39.720>uh voluntary incentive cleanup program uh voluntary - I heard you mention earlier the Star Spangled Banner, right?
- you mention earlier the the the star you mention earlier the the the star Star<00:32:41.679>
WV
West Virginia 2026 Regular Session
Senate in Session Mar 10th, 2026 at 11:05 am
West Virginia Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- Several middle schools are participating in the Youth and Government program.
- Engrossed Committee Substitute for House Bill 4793, creating the Barber Apprentice Program.
- Engrossed Committee Substitute for House Bill 453, to establish the Blue Envelope Program.
- Engrossed House Bill 4437, to allow Gold Star parents to receive one free Gold Star vehicle registration
- This bill entitles a Gold Star parent to one Gold Star family license plate for personal use free from
Summary:
The Senate opened with prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, journal approval, and numerous guest introductions, including students, coaches, visitors from West Virginia universities, and representatives of Hunger Free West Virginia and Mountaineer Food Bank. The chamber also recognized Hunger Free West Virginia Day and heard remarks highlighting food insecurity efforts and a company working on pharmaceutical manufacturing and sickle-cell treatments. Senate Resolution 60 honoring Hunger Free West Virginia Day was adopted, while Senate Resolution 61 urging reversal of Obergefell was held over and Senate Concurrent Resolution 7 on the Southern West Virginia water crisis was referred to the Rules Committee.
The Senate concurred in House amendments and passed several measures, including Senate Bill 467 on enforcement of Purple Heart parking spaces and Senate Bill 712 on cattle guards on certain public roads, with both made effective from passage. The body also passed Senate Bill 844, a supplemental appropriation to the Department of Human Services, and Senate Bill 87, a supplemental appropriation to the Department of Commerce, both with immediate effectiveness. In addition, the Senate advanced a large number of House bills and committee substitutes on first or second reading, including measures on government organization, judiciary, transportation, workforce, and health-related topics.
On third reading, the Senate passed a series of bills covering a wide range of policy areas. These included the Blue Envelope Program for drivers with autism, dementia, or developmental disabilities; coverage for scalp cooling systems during chemotherapy; expanded sex-offender registration for certain offenses; child welfare clothing allowances; school personnel misconduct reporting; age verification for online sexual content; free Gold Star license plates for parents; sanitarian training and licensure changes; sheriff hiring authority; organ donor registration through voter registration; a Cold Case Task Force; abandoned vehicle title procedures; continuing education in nutrition for physicians; special plate rules; gift card fraud crimes; protections for athletic officials; school personnel reassignment rules; Homeland Security administrative updates; pharmacy benefit manager regulation; the VAPE Safety Act after a strike-and-insert amendment; parole supervision fee increases; partial service credit for disabled troopers; state property valuation reporting changes; and quarterly Hope Scholarship payments. Most of these bills passed overwhelmingly, often 34-0, with a few narrower votes such as the organ donor bill passing 30-4 and the school personnel movement bill passing 33-1.
MN
Minnesota 2025 1st Special Session
Conference Committee on HF2431 5/16/25 - Part 1
Transcript Highlights:
- The House is state grant program.
- for the state grant program is out.
- for the state grant program is out.
- <00:13:33.760>
is grant programs is grant programs is in<00:13:35.680>the <00:13:36.240 - <00:13:52.240>
the house law enforcement grant program the house law enforcement grant program
MA
Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session
Joint Session Jun 21st, 2026 at 06:00 pm
Massachusetts Joint Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- It is now my great honor to invite the Gold Star families and the gentleman from Barnstable, Mr.
- O say, does that star-spangled banner yet wave o'er the land of the free and the home of the brave?"
- We're making sure that people get the, on the SNAP program, get the benefits that they need.
- Tonight, we're expanding a program that gives families $25,000 for a down payment on a home.
- And on top of that, we're expanding another program that lowers your interest rates and saves you a ton
Summary:
The joint convention of the Massachusetts Legislature convened to receive the Governor’s State of the Commonwealth address. The session began with procedural motions to appoint committees to notify the lieutenant governor, constitutional officers, Executive Council, and Governor, followed by an invocation from Archbishop Richard G. Henning, the posting and retiring of colors, the Pledge of Allegiance, and the national anthem. The Governor was then formally admitted to the chamber and delivered the address, with a benediction afterward by Rabbi Elaine Zacker.
Governor Maura Healey’s address focused on affordability and public services. She highlighted actions and proposals on housing, including faster permitting, use of state land for housing, accessory dwelling units, down payment assistance, and expanded programs to help first-time buyers. She also discussed energy affordability, saying she would oppose utility rate hikes, pursue an energy affordability bill, and temporarily reduce electric and gas bills. On health care, she described efforts to cap costs, prevent prior authorization for insulin, ban medical debt reporting to credit agencies, and form a health care affordability working group. She also proposed making subscription cancellations easier, improving transportation through bridge repairs and transit investments, and strengthening protections for children on social media.
The Governor also emphasized education, workforce development, and economic competitiveness, citing the state’s top national education ranking, expanded pre-K and child care, literacy and tutoring investments, early college opportunities, and a goal of 100,000 apprentices over 10 years. She praised Massachusetts’ response to federal actions, including support for vaccines, food assistance, abortion access, and research funding, and she criticized the Trump administration on tariffs, health care cuts, and immigration enforcement. She also noted public safety and veterans’ issues, including new assisted-living protections after the Gabriel House fire and the rebuilding of veterans’ homes. No substantive votes on legislation were taken beyond adoption of the ceremonial orders and the final adjournment motion.
US
US Federal 2025-2026 Regular Session
Hearings to examine the posture of the United States European Command and United States Africa Command in review of the Defense Authorization Request for fiscal year 2026 and the Future Years Defense Program; to be immediately followed by a closed he Apr 3rd, 2025 at 08:30 am
Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Personnel
Transcript Highlights:
- These programs are the backbone of our military activities on the continent.
- And I believe the services are programming it as the years go forward. So we've learned a lot.
- For example, in Rwanda, we had a program to help with women and children and the challenges of child
- There's a number of programs that we see that the Chinese Communist Party is trying to replicate.
- if we don't continue many of those programs?
Summary:
The committee convened to discuss various bills and hear testimonies related to legislative matters, including public concerns and implications surrounding the proposed legislation. Notably, the members engaged in a vigorous debate over SB4, where several representatives shared differing viewpoints on its impact on local communities and the environment. Public testimonies were heard, with advocates arguing for the bill's potential benefits, while opponents raised significant concerns regarding the fiscal implications and land use. Following these discussions, the committee moved to vote on HB2214, which passed without issue, illustrating the bipartisan support for certain initiatives tied to public welfare.
US
US Federal 2025-2026 Regular Session
US House Floor Proceedings (Tuesday, September 16, 2025)
US Federal House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- I WAS HONORED TO PARTICIPATE IN HIS NAMESAKE, THE EDGAR FELLOWS PROGRAM, IN 2013.
- Mills for a Bronze Star and includes a signature from an Army brigade commander.
- Sign a Bronze Star recommendation for Congressman Cory Mills.
- THERAPISTS, HIRING MORE SOCIAL WORKERS, CREATING MORE GOVERNMENT PROGRAMS.
- The program is one of the largest sources of human trafficking in the United States.
NM
Transcript Highlights:
- Early childhood learning programs prepare children for schools.
- programs, and we subsidize 1 and 2-star programs when the highest level programs are 5-star.
- The right to use mentorship programs.
- Are we supporting those programs?
- They're on some sort of Medicaid program.
FL
Florida 2025 Regular Session
Commerce and Tourism Feb 11th, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- AS FAR AS THE CAPITAL PROJECTS FUND PROGRAM WE HAVE THREE PROGRAMS WITHIN ITS.
- THE MULTIPURPOSE COMMUNITY FACILITY PROGRAM IS A PROGRAM THAT HAS FUNDED OVER $86 MILLION TO 29 GRAMS
- HERE SOON IN THE DIGITAL CAPACITY GRANT PROGRAM AS WELL AS THE B PROGRAM.
- TWENTY NINE COMMITTEE FACILITIES TO THE MULTI PURPOSE PROGRAM AND 15 DIGITAL DEVICE PROGRAMS.
- DIGITAL CAPACITY GRANT PROGRAM.
MN
Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session
House/Senate Republican Media Availability 12/4/25
Minnesota House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- We've seen scandal after scandal after scandal of fraud in our social service programs on the current
- <00:02:27.760>
on fraud in our social service programs on fraud in our social service programs - We don't have to cancel out all programs. That's not what we want to do.
- We don't have to cancel out all programs. That's not what we want to do.
- So, a lot of the money is federal funds, but we are responsible for managing those programs.
Summary:
Republican legislative leaders in Minnesota held a budget-focused press availability after the November forecast, thanking Minnesota Management and Budget staff while arguing the updated numbers show a much worse deficit outlook than expected. They said the state faces a structural spending problem, cited projected gaps in the 2028-29 biennium and over the four-year outlook, and blamed recent deficits on higher spending, tax increases, mandates, and what they described as fraud in state programs. They also criticized Governor Walz for focusing on federal issues and for not doing enough to control spending or address fraud.
Speaker Lisa Demuth, House Republican Leader Harry Niska, and Senate Finance lead Eric Pratt all said the forecast underscores the need for spending restraint, pro-growth policies, and stronger fraud prevention. They pointed to health care, long-term care, Medicaid-related programs, and local government mandates as major cost drivers, and said the legislature should examine those areas in the upcoming session. Demuth said the state should not ignore fraud and noted that the legislature had added staff to the Office of the Legislative Auditor and whistleblower protections, but had not passed an independent inspector general office.
A substantial portion of the exchange centered on fraud investigations and comments by President Trump about Somali Minnesotans. The Republican leaders said they disagreed with condemning any community as a whole, but also said they shared frustration over fraud and corruption and wanted accountability for those responsible. They said the state’s fraud problem is not about any one community, but about failures in administration and oversight. The lawmakers said they would return to session on February 17 and continue working on budget and fraud-related issues.
CA
California 2025-2026 Regular Session
Assembly Floor Session Jun 11th, 2026
California House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- it's my honor to welcome guests from the California Society of Anesthesiologists Residency Advocacy Program
- And now a new generation of stars is emerging, ready to carry the game forward.
- We have produced national team stars Marisa Du, Clay Coyman, and Lo Labanta, National Soccer Hall of
- And now a new generation of stars is emerging, ready to carry the game forward.
- We have produced national team stars Marisa Du, Clay Coyman, and Lo Labanta, National Soccer, Hall of
Summary:
The Assembly convened after a quorum call, offered prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, and then handled a series of procedural motions, including re-referrals of several bills and permission for committee notice changes. Members also made guest introductions, including anesthesia residents, family members, and a legislative intern. The body then took up House Resolution 118 by Assembly Member Garcia, welcoming the 2026 FIFA World Cup to California and highlighting the state’s host cities, economic benefits, and international goodwill. Several members spoke in support, emphasizing local hosting roles, cultural connections, and anticipated tourism and revenue. The resolution received 64 co-authors and was adopted by voice vote.
On the daily file, the Assembly passed and retained or continued a number of items, then considered Assembly Concurrent Resolution 193 by Majority Leader Aguiar-Curry proclaiming 2026 the International Year of the Woman Farmer. Supporters described the role of women in California agriculture and the barriers they face; the resolution received 69 co-authors and was adopted. The Assembly also adopted Assembly Concurrent Resolution 210 by Assembly Member Jackson, establishing a sister-state relationship with Gauteng province in South Africa, with members speaking to economic, educational, and cultural ties; it received 65 co-authors and was adopted by voice vote.
The second-day consent calendar was then taken up. House Resolution 113 by Assembly Member Jeff Gonzalez, on focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, was added to by 68 co-authors and the consent calendar passed 73-0. The remaining consent items were listed, and the Assembly proceeded to adjournment in memory statements for Norman L. Ford, Jr. and James McCain, Sr., followed by a moment of silence for each. The desk was ordered to remain open for budget-related business, and the House adjourned until Monday, June 15, upon the call of the Speaker.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- My question is regarding the Infrastructure Liaison Officer program, specifically about the training
- In the event that there is some level of wind down of the immigration aspects of Operation Lone Star.
- of Homeland Security is really, you know, all these plans that I've talked about in Operation Lone Star
- Right now in this Homeland Security bill, it's Operation Lone Star funding that is going to TMD for the
- approached me just a few minutes ago about we're making about a hundred arrests a week in Operation Lone Star
Keywords:
homeland security, border security, critical infrastructure, Department of Public Safety, intelligence operations, public-private partnerships, SB 2202, firearm trafficking, gun trafficking, terrorism, foreign terrorist organization, Texas-Mexico border, United Mexican States, Mexico, DPS, second-degree felony, weapons transfer, illegal firearms transfer, arms smuggling, cross-border crime
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- unless you have that answer, I guess I can ask it to you is on the infrastructure liaison officer program
- the event that there is some level of wind down of of the immigration uh aspects of Operation Lone Star
- Is really if all these plans that I've talked about in Operation Lone Star specifically, the Office of
- It's Operation Lone Star funding that is going to TMD for operate for the drawbridge operation.
- About we're making about 100 arrests a week in Operation Lone Star because the smuggling is continuing
Keywords:
homeland security, border security, critical infrastructure, Department of Public Safety, intelligence operations, public-private partnerships, SB 2202, firearm trafficking, gun trafficking, terrorism, foreign terrorist organization, Texas-Mexico border, United Mexican States, Mexico, DPS, second-degree felony, weapons transfer, illegal firearms transfer, arms smuggling, cross-border crime
MN
Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session
Committee on Jobs and Economic Development - 03/10/25
Jobs and Economic Development
Transcript Highlights:
- This program works. It's a program that prevents violence.
- This program works. It's a program that prevents violence.
- This program works. It's a program that prevents violence.
- This program works. It's a program that prevents violence.
- star with Community Workforce program star with Community Workforce program and<01:13:47.360>
FL
Florida 2025 Regular Session
March 24, 2025 - 04:00 PM
Transcript Highlights:
- They've taken care of critically ill patients as part of the residency training programs.
- So we're hoping that the stars are aligned this time, and we hope you all vote up.
- The bill establishes an opt-in newborn screening program to be administered... Thank you.
- The Sunshine Genetics program is not just the right thing to do for families.
- , $40 million of which would be direct savings to our state Medicaid program.
Summary:
The Health and Human Services Committee heard a lengthy agenda of health care and public health bills. The first major item was HB 649, which would remove the paper supervision protocol for certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) and allow autonomous practice. The sponsor and supporters argued it would improve access, especially in rural areas, address workforce shortages, and reduce costs, while opponents from the medical community raised patient safety concerns and argued it would weaken physician oversight. After extensive testimony and debate, the committee reported the bill favorably by a vote of 18-7.
The committee then unanimously advanced several other measures. HB 259, creating a special observance for fentanyl awareness and education, passed 23-0. HB 791, which codifies infant safety devices as an option for surrendering newborns and amends safe-haven law, passed as amended 25-0. HB 355, allowing schools to use FDA-approved emergency opioid antagonists rather than only naloxone, passed 26-0. HB 1119, requiring hospitals with emergency departments to adopt pediatric readiness policies, training, coordination, and assessment requirements, also passed 26-0 after two amendments. HB 431, changing the date for level-two background screening of athletic coaches to July 1, 2026, passed 26-0.
Later, the committee approved CS for HB 907, the Florida Institute for Pediatric Rare Diseases or “Sunshine Genetics Act,” which would establish an opt-in newborn genome sequencing program at FSU and a statewide consortium for rare disease research; supporters emphasized earlier diagnosis and cost savings, and the bill passed 25-0. CS for HB 519, aligning state law with federal law on controlled substances for paramedics, passed 25-0. Finally, CS for HB 723, requiring the Department of Health to provide early-detection materials for type 1 diabetes to families of young schoolchildren, passed as amended 26-0. The meeting adjourned after all bills were reported favorably.
MN
Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session
Community solar garden named for Melissa Hortman 3/3/26
Minnesota House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- Solar Garden Program. Solar Garden Program.
- garden program was revised and recast. garden program was revised and recast.
- fitting that the program bear her name. fitting that the program bear her name.
- program didn't just build solar farms. program didn't just build solar farms.
- program in honor of Melissa Hortman. program in honor of Melissa Hortman.
Summary:
House File 3556 was presented as a bill to rename Minnesota’s community solar garden program the Melissa Hortman Community Solar Garden Program. The author described the measure as a tribute to Hortman’s leadership and her role in creating the program, which was said to have helped launch Minnesota’s solar industry and expand access to clean energy. The bill was moved to the general register before testimony began.
Testifiers from the Public Utilities Commission, Department of Commerce, solar industry groups, clean energy organizations, and community solar developers all supported the bill. They described Hortman as the original legislative champion of the 2013 community solar law and a driving force behind the 2023 revisions that increased access for low- and moderate-income households. Several witnesses said the program has become a national model, has generated jobs and investment, and has enabled renters, small businesses, schools, nonprofits, and households without suitable rooftops to participate in solar.
Witnesses also shared personal reflections about Hortman’s accessibility, preparation, and willingness to listen, saying she treated people with respect and helped shape a durable clean energy policy framework. No opposition testimony or votes on final passage were recorded in the excerpt, but the committee did act to advance the bill to the general register.