Transcript Highlights:

• identified by a team of hydrogeologists and geologists, which from a desktop perspective are especially promising
• oversee geophysical remote sensing surveys at the two other AOIs that were identified as the most promising
• commercial-scale facilities that are operating under normal conditions are not at the level that companies are promising
• , because they're looking at the ideal capture rates from... ...companies are promising because they're

Keywords: 904, all

Summary: The committee’s interim work session focused first on carbon capture, utilization, and sequestration (CCUS), with presenters from industry, nonprofits, and state agencies describing Washington’s geologic potential, the role of basalt formations, and the difference between point-source capture, direct air capture, utilization, and permanent storage. Industry and project developers emphasized that Washington has major opportunities to reduce industrial emissions, create jobs, and support hard-to-electrify sectors, while state agencies explained current policy touchpoints in the Cap and Invest Program, emissions exemptions for permanently stored CO2, and the Clean Energy Transformation Act. Several presenters urged clearer statutory and regulatory pathways, including rules for pore space, subsurface rights, pipeline siting, and long-term liability; others cautioned that CCUS should be limited to real emissions reductions and not treated as a substitute for broader clean energy measures. Committee members asked about public comment opportunities, whether mineralized carbon would qualify for exemption under the Climate Commitment Act, the energy intensity of capture systems, aquifer protection, and liability if storage later proves problematic. Ecology said it is developing guidance through a public engagement process running through late June and that mineralized or otherwise permanently stored CO2 would likely qualify if it meets the 1,000-year permanence standard. DNR and outside experts also discussed trust lands, water rights, and the need for additional geophysical surveys and test wells. The panel did not take any votes or formal actions. The second half of the meeting turned to hazardous waste and extended producer responsibility. Ecology reviewed existing product stewardship programs for electronics, paint, batteries, and mercury lights, and described how moderate risk waste and household hazardous waste are currently collected through county facilities and events. Ecology said the electronics program is its best model, while the mercury lamp program is currently in transition after the prior stewardship organization exited and a new organization is seeking approval. Ecology recommended that future EPR programs have clear producer and product definitions, full producer funding, convenience standards, annual reporting, and strong enforcement authority. Local government witnesses from King County and Douglas County described rising costs, access barriers in rural areas, and the need for stable funding and flexible local delivery models. King County said it collected over 3 million pounds of hazardous products in 2025 and argued that EPR could reduce costs for ratepayers and improve equity. Douglas County stressed that rural residents are willing to participate when services are available, but travel distance and operating costs make access difficult. An industry representative supported narrowly scoped stewardship programs like PaintCare but warned that broad household hazardous waste EPR systems can become difficult to administer and may require legislative revisions if responsibilities are not clearly defined. No votes were taken on the hazardous waste topic either.

Transcript Highlights:

• Seeing no objection, we'll report House Bill 1252 with amendments and with the promise that Chairman
• I promise I'm wrapping up, Mr. Chairman.
• I promise I'm wrapping up, Mr. Chairman.
• I promise I'm wrapping up, Mr. Chairman.

Keywords: 974, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• property tax framework and the structural role of property tax exemption plays in one of the most promising
• I raise it because the committee should be aware that one of the most promising production tools California
• frozen on a tax question that has already been answered. ...should be aware that one of the most promising
• for-sale condominium construction, with the reduction of construction defect liability, as well as the promise

Summary: The committee heard testimony on several housing-related proposals and policy ideas. One speaker urged changes to the welfare property tax exemption for affordable housing, arguing that annual income recertifications are outdated and burdensome, and proposing a one-time qualification at move-in, streamlined monitoring through TCAC or HCD, and continued exemption protection for projects that remain in compliance. The witness said rising insurance costs and administrative burdens are hurting cash flow and threatening the viability of affordable housing operations. A major portion of the meeting focused on social housing and the SB 555 study. HCD described its ongoing study process, including public engagement with residents, practitioners, and experts, and noted that California already has many building blocks for social housing, such as public land tools, long-term affordability mechanisms, community land trusts, and tenant protections. Community land trust and housing policy witnesses argued that social housing will require legislative action, expanded public subsidy, tax abatements, public land, and simplified financing, and they emphasized the need to reframe the concept for the “missing middle” and middle-class households to build broader political support. Committee members discussed stigma around “social housing,” the need for a rebrand, and the possibility of a pilot program, especially on excess public land. The committee also heard a proposal for a certified professional plan-check system modeled on Vancouver, Canada. The presenter said California’s permitting delays, inconsistent reviews, and staffing shortages add cost and uncertainty even for streamlined projects, and proposed allowing state-certified private professionals to perform plan checks and inspections under state oversight while local governments retain zoning and enforcement authority. Members discussed local control concerns, infrastructure costs, and the need to reduce delays and uncertainty in the entitlement process. Finally, the committee heard testimony supporting changes to HCD loan disbursement so funds can be used during construction rather than only after completion. Witnesses said this would reduce interest costs, improve feasibility, and could produce additional affordable homes with existing funding. The discussion also referenced AB 1053 as the vehicle for implementing that approach.

Transcript Highlights:

• A native of Oklahoma City and a recipient of Oklahoma's Promise, Alise represents every student in our
• Programs like Oklahoma's Promise and Inspired to Teach are the lifelines for our students.
• After I was elected, I promised myself to leave not as a partisan politician, but as a leader, and I
• believe I have kept that promise.

Bills: HB4028, HB4075, HB4077, HB4074, HB4076, SB1221, SB1921, SB2118, SB1932, SB2134, HCR1025, SB1432, HCR1024, HCR1022, SB1122, HB4029, HB4063, HB4073, HB4078, SB1936, SB44, SB237, SB248, SB1360, SB985, SB1204, SB1239, SB1307, SB2143, SB1428, SB1390, SB1400, SB1405, SB1732, SB1832, SB1859, SB1989, SB2018, SB1427

Keywords: tax deduction, venture capital, economic development, Oklahoma, investment, water resources, appropriations, funding, state treasury, infrastructure projects, emergency act, emergency management, disaster relief, pandemic response, state appropriations, HB4074, Health Care Workforce Training Commission, Health Care Workforce Revolving Fund, health workforce, health care workforce

Summary: The House opened with roll call, prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, and several recognitions and introductions, including Deer Creek students, Skiatook Chamber members, Sand Springs youth leaders, and international visitors studying U.S. energy policy. The chamber also honored the Nurse of the Day, Marla Lyceum, and heard a lengthy farewell speech from Minority Leader Munson reflecting on her service, constituent work, leadership, and bipartisan relationships. Members then took up several special presentations and resolutions, including HCR 1024 recognizing Route 66 Day and its economic importance, HCR 1022 honoring National Lineman Appreciation Day, and a citation for Langston University Day at the Capitol. The House also recognized Deputy Kenton Blumenthal as Oklahoma’s 2025 Officer of the Year for heroic actions during a dangerous pursuit. Later, the House introduced the pages of the week. On legislation, the House passed SB 1122 on ad valorem tax, which supporters said would equalize tax treatment for broadband infrastructure and promote business fairness, over some concern about tax policy and revenue impacts. The chamber also passed HB 4029, HB 4063, HB 4073, HB 4078, and SB 1936, with emergency clauses adopted on the first four. HB 4063, which referred two previously approved state questions to a special August election, drew extended debate over ballot timing, turnout, and whether combining the questions was appropriate; it ultimately passed and the special election referral was approved. SB 1936, which elevates falsely impersonating a law enforcement officer to a D1 felony, passed unanimously.

Transcript Highlights:

• And as we stand in this season of transition where the deep quiet of winter begins to stir with the promise
• 02.319> the quiet of winter begins to stir with the quiet of winter begins to stir with the promise
• 03:04.159> ask<00:03:04.319> for<00:03:04.480> a<00:03:04.720> similar promise
• of spring, we ask for a similar promise of spring, we ask for a similar stirring<00:03:05.760> of

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• whatever amount that some author might want, and then we're going to be down the same road of the promise
• we're going to be down the same road of we're going to be down the same road of the<00:12:39.240> promise
• 40.360> we<00:12:40.800> just<00:12:41.040> saw<00:12:41.240> this the promise
• grants that we just saw this the promise grants that we just saw this week,<00:12:42.320> where

Keywords: 1183, house

Transcript Highlights:

• Years and years ago, we promised the people of this great state a part-time legislature, one focused
• they understand exactly what I'm going for here in what we all have to deal with and what we've promised
• That's what I promised my constituents. I would not stay here forever. I'm not running again.
• That's what I promised to do. This bill is a step to force that in the right direction.

Keywords: 1182, all

Summary: The committee first heard HB 2825, which would replace criminal court enforcement for unpaid court debts and incarceration costs with a civil collection framework, eliminating arrest warrants and contempt for nonpayment while preserving the underlying financial obligations. The sponsor and supporters said the bill would reduce cycles of poverty and keep people working. The committee adopted the Blackman amendment, which bars a defendant from setting aside a second default judgment entered within one year of a prior default judgment, and then gave HB 2825 a 7-0 do pass recommendation. The committee then took up HB 2070, an emergency appropriation of $25 million from the state general fund to the Arizona Department of Administration for Gila County flood relief. County supervisors, mayors, a town council member, emergency management staff, and other local officials described severe flooding in Globe, Miami, and surrounding areas, including deaths, destroyed homes and businesses, debris, sediment, damaged roads and utilities, and the need for matching funds to access federal and other grants. Members discussed FEMA denials, federal reimbursement delays, and the difficulty of completing required projects within short timelines. HB 2070 was approved 7-0. The committee also approved HB 2129, which moves the deadline for municipal library trustees’ annual reports from the first Monday in July to the second Monday in July, with supporters saying the change helps smaller and rural libraries after the July 4 holiday. HB 2439, exempting public and semi-public cold plunges from ADEQ water pollution rules, also received a do pass recommendation after testimony that the current rules create confusion and unnecessary costs for businesses. HB 2773, barring Arizona and its entities from assisting the International Criminal Court or using public resources to support ICC enforcement actions, passed 4-3 after debate over sovereignty and constitutional authority. HB 2873, requiring ADOA to share procurement Q&A with all bidders, and HB 2876, requiring topics from executive session and proposed tax or fee increases to be placed on an action agenda, both received do pass recommendations after transparency-focused testimony and some concerns about implementation and municipal practice. Finally, the committee heard HCR 2005, a proposed constitutional amendment requiring the legislature to adjourn sine die by April 30 each year and submit that question to voters. The sponsor argued Arizona sessions have grown too long and that a firm deadline would force earlier, more efficient work while still allowing a special session if the budget is unfinished. Members debated whether the proposal would improve discipline or instead create problems for the budget process, member pay, and legislative workload, with some suggesting a broader conversation about full-time versus part-time legislatures. The resolution was advanced with a do pass recommendation.

Transcript Highlights:

• people would have an expectation that the state would continue the funding, and we're not making that promise
• that credit by placing the PRC after the discount, those that are involved will receive the full promised
• that credit by placing the PRC after the discount, those that are involved will receive the full promised
• prayer, and I'm ending with thanks, because your friendships will be with me all of my life, and I promise

Bills: SB2401, SB2402, SB2403, SB2404

Keywords: SB 2401, North Dakota, Century Code, occupational therapy, occupational therapy board, criminal history record check, background check, licensee investigation, physician continuing education, medical license renewal, nutrition education, metabolic health, chronic disease prevention, health occupation boards, medical board, licensure fee, audit response, disciplinary action, Title 43, board of medicine

Summary: The Senate convened with prayer, roll call, and a quorum present, then took up second reading and final passage of several House bills related to the Rural Health Transformation Program and other matters. House Bill 1621, requiring the presidential fitness test in school physical education with exceptions and a delayed effective date, passed 43-3. House Bill 1623, appropriating federal rural health transformation grant funds and creating a related loan program and reporting structure, passed 46-0 after extensive debate about using the federal money for community health, infrastructure, and sustainability. House Bill 1622, joining the physician assistant licensure compact, also passed unanimously 46-0. House Bill 1625, authorizing the Ray Richards Golf Course land sale to support a Grand Forks transportation project and golf course improvements, passed 46-0. House Bill 1626, clarifying that the primary residence credit is applied after the early payment discount so taxpayers receive the full $1,600 benefit, passed 40-6.

Transcript Highlights:

• all those lectures, and at the end of it I said, let's all vote and go back to one university, I promise
• It's a promise, and it's a promise backed by the legislature, and it's a promise backed by the citizens

Summary: The Appropriations Committee on Higher Education met to consider a large slate of confirmations and reappointments to boards of trustees for Florida’s colleges, universities, and the Florida Prepaid College Board. Chair Harrell opened by emphasizing the importance of trustee appointments to maintaining Florida’s higher education system, and the committee heard brief testimony from each nominee about their background, ties to the institution, and priorities such as student success, workforce alignment, fiscal stewardship, and community partnerships. Several nominees highlighted personal connections to their schools, including alumni status, family legacy, or prior service on the board, while others emphasized experience in business, law, education, health care, or public service. Testimony focused heavily on workforce development and institutional growth. Speakers cited nursing, dual enrollment, applied programs, military and veteran support, broadband access, agriculture, law enforcement, and technical training as key areas for colleges to meet regional labor needs. University nominees discussed research expansion, affordability, strategic planning, and partnerships with industry and government, with Florida Atlantic, Florida Polytechnic, the University of West Florida, and the University of South Florida each described as being in periods of growth or transition. Miami-Dade College, Tallahassee State College, Polk State College, and other state colleges were praised for enrollment, economic impact, and job placement outcomes. The committee also heard from the Florida Prepaid College Board reappointee, who described the program as a long-term promise backed by public trust and reported recent technology and customer-service improvements. After testimony, the committee took up the nominations as a group. One nominee, Drew Weatherford, had withdrawn and was not voted on. The remaining trustees were approved unanimously by roll call and reported favorably to the Ethics and Elections Committee. The meeting then adjourned.

Transcript Highlights:

• This is a good fact: Oklahoma's promise students have a higher graduation rate than a normal population
• It is a, and once again, Oklahoma's Promise is kind of like a higher education voucher program.
• This is that when you look, especially, and I've asked about it for the Promise Scholarship.
• If anybody loses their Promise Scholarship or has to withdraw in mid-semester, to track and see, are

Keywords: 914, all

Transcript Highlights:

• And I think that’s what’s the promise of that in terms of sorting out some of the risk for these wildland
• And I think that's what's the promise of that in terms of sorting out some of the risk for these wildland
• “What’s the promise of that in terms of sorting out some of the risk for these wildland firefighters
• So that's very promising. So you're going to continue doing the pilot if it's successful?

Summary: The committee heard a report on the Underground Economy Task Force in Washington’s construction industry. Labor and Industries said the task force, created by a 2024 budget proviso, met 11 times and developed consensus recommendations to improve enforcement against worker misclassification, unregistered contractors, and unpaid taxes and premiums. Consensus items included defining and regulating construction labor providers, improving interagency data sharing, increasing penalties for repeat offenders, expanding L&I authority over successor accountability, reviewing agency penalty rules, and exploring tracking of cash payments. Majority-but-not-consensus ideas included posting subcontractor notices at job sites, setting an independent-contractor threshold that would trigger L&I review, holding direct contractors liable for unpaid wages owed by subcontractors, and reviewing reporting requirements. Testifiers from labor, business, and the Attorney General’s Office generally supported stronger enforcement and transparency, while business representatives cautioned against overregulation and said any new rules should avoid burdening legitimate contractors or restricting lawful cash payments and independent contracting. L&I said the final report would be distributed by December 31 and the task force work group would be reconvened. The committee then reviewed the wage recovery work group report. L&I explained current wage complaint procedures and said the work group, made up of labor and business representatives, reached five consensus recommendations: allow L&I to prioritize wage complaints strategically, permit aggregation of related complaints, raise the minimum penalty under the Wage Payment Act from $1,000 to $1,500 and create a penalty matrix, improve employer awareness with materials for new hires, and establish a wage recovery fund. The fund would be seeded by penalties, would not require new employer assessments, and would allow limited early payments to eligible workers facing hardship, with a proposed cap of $2,500 and a later review of the program. Business and labor representatives both supported the overall framework, though business raised concerns about fraud safeguards and recovery of funds if a claim is later found invalid. Members also received an overview of Washington’s apprenticeship system. L&I described the state’s apprenticeship agency structure, the Washington State Apprenticeship and Training Council, and the difference between Washington’s state apprenticeship standards and the federal Office of Apprenticeship system. The presentation highlighted current participation levels, program approval and objection processes, and strong post-completion outcomes, including median annual earnings above $100,000 and an estimated $7.80 return for every public dollar invested. Committee members asked about how apprentices apply, how sponsors work with L&I, and whether recurring objections could be addressed earlier in the process. Finally, the committee heard updates on wildland firefighter respiratory protection, federal cuts to NIOSH, and economic and federal policy impacts on unemployment insurance and workforce services. L&I said wildland firefighters face significant smoke exposure and cancer risk, but current rules do not require respiratory protection for that work because of technical and operational challenges; the agency is watching efforts in other jurisdictions and at the federal level. On NIOSH, L&I warned that federal staffing and grant cuts could weaken occupational safety research, training pipelines, and programs affecting Washington workers, including firefighter cancer tracking and Hanford exposure assessments. ESD reported rising UI claims, a stable unemployment rate, and pressure on the trust fund, while also describing technology and process changes that have improved claims handling. ESD also said HR1 will significantly increase demand on WorkSource services through new work-search requirements for SNAP and Medicaid recipients, creating an unfunded mandate that the agency is preparing to implement with partner agencies.

Transcript Highlights:

• For the committee, Madam Chair, and for some of the new members, we've promised $26.5 billion in benefits
• $8.7 billion, which represents the shortfall we currently have compared to the benefits we have promised
• It's just that the benefits that were promised, you know, weren't properly paid, and we don't have that
• Nobody promised me a blanket anywhere, a parachute anywhere, and I think we'd be remiss if we didn't

Transcript Highlights:

• We've seen various different ones that show promise, and some is collection.
• But it's just so much data now, and we've seen some promising things where you can search better and
• I promised you I would follow up on how the executive order finished and what we're working on now.
• know, when folks give you their data, they expect it will be used in a certain way that you have promised

Summary: The committee held a work session focused on technology in government, AI, broadband, and digital equity. Seattle CTO Rob Lloyd described the city’s AI strategy, emphasizing responsible use, privacy, security, community input, and data strategy. He said Seattle is using small pilots and partnerships to test AI for tasks such as public records processing, infrastructure inspection, and permitting, while keeping humans as the final decision-makers. Members asked about bias, liability, training on best practices, labor involvement, and public records; Lloyd said AI should remain an assistant tool, not a replacement for human judgment, and that Seattle is still testing solutions for records requests and permitting. WATech CTO Nick Stow and Deputy Director Mark Quimby discussed the state’s broader AI policy, the generative AI executive order, a sandbox with more than 15 agencies, and use cases including a resident portal, cybersecurity, and wildfire detection. They stressed consent, closed systems, human-centered design, and the need to govern all forms of AI, not just generative AI. Committee members raised concerns about federal data access, labor issues, and wildfire detection effectiveness. Spokane County IT staff described a more restrictive approach to AI, citing privacy, bias, and cyber risks. The county standardized on Microsoft Copilot as its only approved chat-style AI tool, blocked other AI chat platforms, and requires human review of all AI-generated content. They said AI is also being used by criminals for phishing and deepfakes, underscoring the need for strong policy and security controls. The committee also received an update from the Attorney General’s AI Task Force. Yuki Ishizuka said the task force has 19 members and eight subcommittees covering ethics, consumer protection, labor, health care, public safety, education, government efficiency, cybersecurity, and industry/energy. The task force is working toward an interim report due December 1, 2025 and a final report due July 1, 2026, and is reviewing recommendations through public forums and advisory committees. Ishizuka warned that a federal budget reconciliation provision could bar states from enforcing AI regulations for 10 years, and several members voiced support for state authority and asked about possible 2026 legislation. The committee then heard updates on broadband and digital equity. Commerce’s Dave Pringle said the BEAD broadband program is being reshaped by new NTIA guidance, which removed or reduced emphasis on several prior priorities, and Washington is now working under an expedited process to submit its state application by September 4. He noted that no projects have been built yet, that four counties did not receive applications in round two, and that the state is trying to keep applicants engaged through office hours and a shortened review window. The Office of Equity and the Digital Equity Forum reported increased participation, new members, and ongoing outreach to tribal, rural, and underserved communities, while previewing recommendations such as creating an interdepartmental digital equity team and improving data use. Finally, Lumen’s Robert Thoms described private-sector broadband deployment challenges, including permitting, regulation, and the economics of extending fiber, while noting continued investment in overbuild projects, a $30 low-cost service option tied to the former ACP, and work with the state, tribes, and libraries. No votes were taken; the meeting consisted of presentations and member questions.

Transcript Highlights:

• So, shockingly, we are not going to see the $600 million in savings that they keep promising us.
• $600 million in savings that<00:04:59.680> they<00:04:59.919> keep<00:05:00.160> promising
• <00:05:01.600> The<00:05:01.840> actual that they keep promising us.
• The actual that they keep promising us.

Keywords: 919, house, all

Summary: Minnesota lawmakers and advocates held a press event focused on a special-session budget agreement that would repeal health coverage for undocumented immigrants. Speakers, including Rep. María Isa Pérez-Vega, Sen. Lieman, labor leaders, immigrant advocates, faith leaders, and other DFL/POCI caucus members, argued the repeal would harm about 17,000 people, increase uncompensated care costs, worsen ER and clinic wait times, reduce productivity, and ultimately raise costs for taxpayers and employers. They also said undocumented immigrants contribute significant tax revenue and that the measure was motivated by cruelty and scapegoating rather than fiscal responsibility. Testimony emphasized moral, public health, labor, and faith-based objections. Unidos Minnesota, SEIU Local 26, the Minnesota AFL-CIO, and Pastor Ingred Ramson all framed health care as a human right and said the policy would punish working families, immigrants, and communities of color. Several speakers linked the repeal to broader attacks on immigrants, labor rights, and other social protections, and warned that the compromise budget framework included a “poison pill” tying the health bill to the repeal. POCI caucus members said they had tried unsuccessfully to negotiate alternatives, including changes to paid leave, earned sick and safe time, non-compete bans, premiums, enrollment caps, and protections for children, elders, and people with chronic conditions. They said leadership was not part of the negotiations and expressed disappointment with DFL and governor-level decisions, while also saying they would continue to fight the policy and hold leaders accountable. No vote was taken in the event itself, but speakers repeatedly said the repeal was expected to pass and that they would oppose it and continue organizing in future sessions.

Transcript Highlights:

• And I do feel like that was promised to the Capitol Mall, and so I'm very disappointed to have lost that
• And I do feel like the c that was<00:31:44.799> promised<00:31:45.279> to<00:31:45.440>
• 45.679> Capitol<00:31:46.000> Mall<00:31:46.559> and<00:31:46.799> so was promised
• to the Capitol Mall and so was promised to the Capitol Mall and so I'm<00:31:47.200> very<00:

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• It holds promise to nurture innovation, efficient systems, and solutions with buy-in from Minnesota residents
• It holds promise<00:14:45.440> to<00:14:45.600> nurture<00:14:46.000> innovation,
• ><00:14:46.880> efficient promise to nurture innovation, efficient promise to nurture innovation

Keywords: 1183, house

Transcript Highlights:

• maybe we can tap into that meeting that Ishiba, Prime Minister from Japan, with Donald Trump, and promised
• maybe we can tap into that meeting that Ishiba, Prime Minister from Japan, with Donald Trump, and promised
• maybe we can tap into that meeting that Ishiba, Prime Minister from Japan, with Donald Trump, and promised
• maybe we can tap into that meeting that Ishiba, Prime Minister from Japan, with Donald Trump, and promised

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The Senate Committees on Economic Development and Tourism and on Transportation, Culture, and the Arts heard HCR 142, which urges the Hawaii Tourism Authority and Department of Transportation to expand the airport greetings program to display art in all neighbor island airports. Testimony from CARES supported the measure, emphasizing that public art and youth art competitions help educate keiki, strengthen cultural understanding, and support economic development through Hawaii’s creative industries. No one testified in opposition, and members raised no questions. Both committees recommended passage of HCR 142 unamended. The measure was adopted by voice vote in each committee, with some members excused. Later, the Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tourism heard HTR 102, which concerns translating the real estate salesperson exam into Japanese for timeshare-related sales. Supporters, including DBEDT and ARDA Hawaii, argued the change would help Japanese-speaking applicants, improve workforce recruitment, and support Hawaii’s timeshare industry and Japanese visitor market. A representative from APAC Hawaii supported the idea but suggested considering additional languages such as Korean, Chinese, and Filipino. Some senators questioned whether the proposal adequately addressed continuing education and long-term English proficiency, and the Real Estate Commission explained it does not currently issue a limited timeshare salesperson license and that the proposal would not restrict licensees from selling other real estate products. The committee also heard HCR 156, which asks the Hawaii Technology Development Corporation to increase its focus on advanced manufacturing and cybersecurity to support economic diversification, high-wage jobs, innovation, and national security. HTDC and the Hawaii Military Affairs Council supported the resolution, citing the recent federal discontinuation of the local Manufacturing Extension Partnership program, Innovate Hawaii, and the loss of related staff positions as reasons to reinforce state support. Testimony and discussion stressed cybersecurity, supply-chain resilience, automation, and the need to sustain manufacturing momentum in Hawaii. Both HTR 102 and HCR 156 were recommended for passage as is and were adopted by the committee, with some members excused.

Transcript Highlights:

• And what's also more promising is that there's 65 open clinical trials, so there's a lot of energy, there's
• And the unique thing about a gene therapy over other treatments is that they offer the promise of a cure
• diagnosing children at birth that are affected by these disorders, we're not able to give them that promise
• ...are affected by these disorders, we're not able to give them that promise of saving their lives.

Summary: The subcommittee met with a quorum present and took up five health-related bills. HB 1089, which would add Duchenne muscular dystrophy to Florida’s newborn screening panel, was presented as a way to enable earlier diagnosis and treatment; a pediatric neurologist from Nemours testified in support, noting existing FDA-approved therapies and ongoing clinical trials. After supportive debate, the bill passed 17-0 and was reported favorably. HB 1083 would standardize patient access to medical records by setting deadlines for providers to produce or allow inspection of records and requiring electronic delivery when available. Supporters said it would reduce delays in care and costs, while two industry groups appeared in opposition. Members from both parties spoke in favor, and the bill passed 17-0 and was reported favorably. HB 1297, which aligns Florida’s electronic prescribing rules more closely with federal law and removes some state exceptions, drew opposition from physicians who argued paper prescriptions are still needed for emergencies, shortages, and price shopping. The sponsor said the bill’s goals were patient safety, fraud prevention, and efficiency; despite concerns, it passed 18-0 and was reported favorably. The committee then considered PCS for HB 1421, the Emily Adkins Family Protection Act, which would create a statewide blood clot and pulmonary embolism registry, require hospital reporting and risk-assessment policies, and expand training requirements in hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities. The bill was presented with emotional testimony from Emily Adkins’ parents, who urged support and co-sponsorship in her memory. Members from both parties praised the family’s advocacy, and the PCS passed 18-0 and was reported favorably. Finally, HB 449 on optometry would expand optometrists’ authority to prescribe certain medications and perform specified laser and non-laser eye procedures after certification. The bill and amendment drew strong opposition from ophthalmologists and their association, who raised patient-safety, training, and delegation concerns, while optometrists argued the bill would improve access, especially in rural areas and counties without ophthalmologists. The amendment was adopted, and the bill as amended passed on a recorded vote and was reported favorably.

Transcript Highlights:

• And that is one that I think has a lot of promise.
• With that, we will get into the agenda, but as I promised earlier, if you would like to make a briefer
• So this grant might allow districts to continue some of the more promising activities for another few
• have some employees on the receiving layoff notices and resources that are just starting to show promise

Keywords: 988, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• software is broke on your computer and you need to send me $100 to fix it when you can basically promise
• At an inaugural address, the President promised that his administration will work to usher in the golden
• I believe in that promise and will dedicate myself to fulfilling it.
• And on the consumer protection. side, if the application of terms of service or other promises made by

Keywords: Senate Committee, Commerce, Science, Technology, Quantum Computing, Artificial Intelligence, FTC, Consumer Protection, Innovation, Emerging Technologies

Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation featured significant discussions regarding technological advancements and their implications for the future. Notably, nominations were made for key positions in the White House's Office of Science and Technology Policy and the Federal Trade Commission. Committee members expressed the importance of leading in emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and quantum computing, emphasizing that the pace of innovation is crucial for maintaining the United States' global position as a leader in technology. The discussions also highlighted the role of the FTC in protecting consumers from deceptive business practices and ensuring fair competition in the marketplace. Attendees underscored the urgency of advancing research and development in areas such as quantum computing, as evidenced by a demonstration of a new quantum chip anticipated to redefine computing capabilities across industries. Various members engaged in vibrant exchanges, showing support for initiatives aimed at bolstering innovation through public and private collaboration. Overall, the meeting set a strong agenda for pursuing future science and technology policies that ensure the U.S. remains at the forefront of global advancements.