Bills: HB 2242, HB 2446, HB 2799, HB 4502, HB 2920, HB 2790, HB 5620, HB 5060, HB 5076, HB 5080, HB 5081, HB 5128, HB 5130, HB 3847, HB 5116, HB 2969, HB 4546, HB 4202, HB 5624, HB 3964, HB 4803, HB 872, HB 4775, HB 4777, HB 4961, HB 5570, HB 2988, HB 4260, HB 1375, HB 5009, HB 5411, HB 5134, HB 4388, HB 3095, HB 1387

Keywords: constables, civil rights, local government, law enforcement, policy-making authority, affidavit, medical bills, civil actions, reasonable charges, healthcare services, judicial statistics, court performance, family law, civil cases, efficiency reporting, court security, emergency management, harassment penalties, judicial safety, court committee

Transcript Highlights:

• I would defer to a witness that may have knowledge. I'm not aware of a case like that.
• In fact, she has said that she's judgment-proof, and yet I've had to spend now over $300,000 defending
• And you don't just give total deference to a trial court that the plaintiff, the belligerent plaintiff
• My attorney, I got... and you don't just give total deference to a trial court that the plaintiff, the
• And the final point is that engineers and truck... ...the medical judgment and treating a patient.

Bills: HB2242, HB2446, HB2799, HB4502, HB2920, HB2790, HB5620, HB5060, HB5076, HB5080, HB5081, HB5128, HB5130, HB3847, HB5116, HB2969, HB4546, HB4202, HB5624, HB3964, HB4803, HB872, HB4775, HB4777, HB4961, HB5570, HB2988, HB4260, HB1375, HB5009, HB5411, HB5134, HB4388, HB3095, HB1387

Keywords: constables, civil rights, local government, law enforcement, policy-making authority, affidavit, medical bills, civil actions, reasonable charges, healthcare services, judicial statistics, court performance, family law, civil cases, efficiency reporting, court security, emergency management, harassment penalties, judicial safety, court committee

Summary: The committee heard House Bill 4961, which would bar uninsured motorists from recovering non-economic damages after a collision. The author said the bill is intended to create incentives to maintain insurance and to address what he described as an unfair system for insured drivers. Texans for Lawsuit Reform and Texas Eagle Forum testified in support, while the Texas Trial Lawyers Association opposed it, warning the bill could also affect pedestrians, passengers, children, and others who did not choose whether a vehicle was insured. The bill author clarified that passengers would be included in the bill’s coverage. No vote was taken and the bill was left pending. House Bill 5570 would extend a legislative attorney CLE exemption to attorneys appointed by the governor and confirmed by the Senate to boards or commissions. The author said the measure is meant to ease time burdens and encourage service, and a witness supported it as a modest incentive for public service. A committee member noted a discrepancy in the number of affected attorneys, and the author agreed to verify the correct figure. The bill was left pending. The committee also heard House Bill 2969, which would restrict the State Bar from adopting rules or penalties that unreasonably burden attorneys’ religious exercise or free speech based on sincerely held beliefs. The author and several witnesses from Texas Values, Alliance Defending Freedom, and Cecilia Wood argued the bill protects lawyers of faith from an ABA model rule they described as a speech code. No one testified against the bill, and it was left pending. House Bill 4260, which would prohibit county judges and county commissioners from practicing law in courts over which they have jurisdiction, drew opposition from the County Judges and Commissioners Association, which argued existing ethics rules already address conflicts and that the bill would burden rural officials. The author said the bill was prompted by concerns about judges using their office to pressure others. The bill was left pending. House Bill 5134 would limit Rule 202 pre-suit depositions to people who have suffered or reasonably expect actual damages and would allow attorney’s fees against abusive petitioners. The author said the bill is aimed at preventing harassment and fishing expeditions, especially in family-law disputes. Questions focused on how the standard would work and how it differs from current law; the author said the main change is fee-shifting and a clearer legislative directive. The bill was left pending. House Bill 3095, a committee substitute version of a similar uninsured-motorist bill, would bar uninsured motorists from recovering non-economic damages and limit economic recovery, with several exceptions. Trial lawyers argued it was unconstitutional because it capped economic damages and could unfairly affect innocent drivers, pedestrians, and older people who no longer drive. The author acknowledged constitutional concerns and said the bill would need further work; the committee withdrew the substitute and left the bill pending. Finally, House Bill 4388 would require all judges, including county judges who perform administrative duties, to remain subject to the Code of Judicial Conduct. Supporters said some elected judges avoid accountability by relinquishing judicial functions, while opponents argued the bill is too rigid and unnecessary because existing remedies already exist. House Bill 3964 would limit public nuisance claims to their historical role and bar such claims against lawful conduct, conduct already covered by other remedies, and products. The author and supporters said the bill is meant to prevent courts from using public nuisance to make policy, while opponents argued it would eliminate useful remedies and could affect local actions against environmental or product-related harms. The author said the bill would not affect statutory nuisance claims, private nuisance claims, or other causes of action, and would be amended to clarify some provisions. The bill was left pending.

Transcript Highlights:

• I would defer to a witness that may have knowledge. I'm not aware of a case like that.
• So my guess is that you would have a judgment today for $300,000 for your attorney's fees.
• It's been in the law for a long time in the Uniform Declaratory Judgment Act.
• It's been in the law for a long time in the Uniform Declaratory Judgment Act.
• And you don’t just give total deference to a trial court that the plaintiff, the belligerent...

Bills: HB2242, HB2446, HB2799, HB4502, HB2920, HB2790, HB5620, HB5060, HB5076, HB5080, HB5081, HB5128, HB5130, HB3847, HB5116, HB2969, HB4546, HB4202, HB5624, HB3964, HB4803, HB872, HB4775, HB4777, HB4961, HB5570, HB2988, HB4260, HB1375, HB5009, HB5411, HB5134, HB4388, HB3095, HB1387

Keywords: constables, civil rights, local government, law enforcement, policy-making authority, affidavit, medical bills, civil actions, reasonable charges, healthcare services, judicial statistics, court performance, family law, civil cases, efficiency reporting, court security, emergency management, harassment penalties, judicial safety, court committee

Summary: The committee heard testimony on several bills affecting civil practice, judicial conduct, and attorney regulation. HB 4961 and the similar HB 3095 would bar uninsured motorists from recovering non-economic damages after a collision, with HB 3095 also addressing certain exceptions and limiting economic damages in some cases. Supporters said the measures would encourage insurance coverage and fairness for insured drivers, while opponents argued they would unfairly punish injured people who were not responsible for the lack of insurance, including pedestrians, passengers, children, and others. HB 3095 drew constitutional concerns from witnesses, and the committee later withdrew the committee substitute and left the bill pending; HB 4961 was also left pending after questions about its scope, including passengers. HB 5570 would expand a continuing legal education exemption to attorneys appointed by the governor and confirmed by the Senate who serve on boards or commissions. The author and witness said the bill would free up time for public service while still requiring ethics training. A committee member raised a discrepancy in the number of attorneys covered, and the bill was left pending. HB 2969 would prohibit the State Bar from adopting rules or penalties that unreasonably burden attorneys’ religious exercise or free speech, especially in relation to sincerely held religious beliefs. Supporters framed it as a protection for lawyers of faith against an ABA-style speech code, while no one testified in opposition; the bill was left pending. HB 4260 would prohibit county judges and county commissioners from practicing law in courts over which they have jurisdiction. The author described it as an ethics measure to avoid conflicts of interest, but county officials and the County Judges and Commissioners Association opposed it, saying existing ethics rules already address conflicts and that the bill would impose hardships, especially in rural counties. The bill was left pending. HB 4388 would require all judges, including those who serve only in administrative roles, to remain subject to the Code of Judicial Conduct; supporters said some judges avoid discipline by relinquishing judicial functions, while opponents said the bill was unnecessary and could burden county judges who serve as administrators. It was also left pending. The committee also heard HB 5134, which would limit Rule 202 pre-suit depositions to people who have suffered or reasonably expect to suffer actual damages and allow attorney’s fees against abusive petitioners. The author said the bill would curb harassment and fishing expeditions, but members questioned how the standard would work in practice; the bill was left pending. Finally, HB 3964 would narrow common-law public nuisance claims by barring suits over lawful conduct, conduct already addressed by other remedies, and products, while preserving other causes of action. Supporters said the bill would prevent regulation through litigation and protect legislative authority; opponents said it would eliminate important remedies and that no Texas abuse had been shown. The author indicated he would revise the bill, and it was left pending.

Bills: HB2242, HB2446, HB2799, HB4502, HB2920, HB2790, HB5620, HB5060, HB5076, HB5080, HB5081, HB5128, HB5130, HB3847, HB5116, HB2969, HB4546, HB4202, HB5624, HB3964, HB4803, HB872, HB4775, HB4777, HB4961, HB5570, HB2988, HB4260, HB1375, HB5009, HB5411, HB5134, HB4388, HB3095, HB1387

Keywords: constables, civil rights, local government, law enforcement, policy-making authority, affidavit, medical bills, civil actions, reasonable charges, healthcare services, judicial statistics, court performance, family law, civil cases, efficiency reporting, court security, emergency management, harassment penalties, judicial safety, court committee

Transcript Highlights:

• They won't answer post-judgment questions, and they won't attend post-judgment depositions. on assets
• They are entitled to get a judgment just like any other creditor, and then any judgment is enforceable
• Are most of your judgments default judgments? Yes, that's correct.
• Do you agree that most of the judgments are default judgments?
• The judgment debtor does.

Bills: HB2242, HB2446, HB2799, HB4502, HB2920, HB2790, HB5620, HB5060, HB5076, HB5080, HB5081, HB5128, HB5130, HB3847, HB5116, HB2969, HB4546, HB4202, HB5624, HB3964, HB4803, HB872, HB4775, HB4777, HB4961, HB5570, HB2988, HB4260, HB1375, HB5009, HB5411, HB5134, HB4388, HB3095, HB1387

Keywords: constables, civil rights, local government, law enforcement, policy-making authority, affidavit, medical bills, civil actions, reasonable charges, healthcare services, judicial statistics, court performance, family law, civil cases, efficiency reporting, court security, emergency management, harassment penalties, judicial safety, court committee

Transcript Highlights:

• can't do meaningful enforcement action on the judgment or collection action of the judgment.
• or collection action of on the Judgment or collection action of the<00:53:35.200> Judgment<00
• I think I'll defer it. Is that okay with everyone? We're going to defer that one too.
• we're going to defer that one we're going to defer that one too<00:57:48.200> close<00:57
• SB 1508, the recommendation is to pass with amendments. so deferred for set period of so deferred for

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The Judiciary Committee heard testimony on several bills. SB 335 would route objections by political party officers to candidate nomination papers through the Office of Elections. The State Election Director testified that his office was not the right venue for party-membership challenges because it could create conflicts and force the Attorney General to represent the chief election officer in court; members discussed whether all objections should instead go directly to Circuit Court, but no action was taken. SB 280 would expand first-degree negligent injury to cover injuries negligently caused by intoxicated drivers. The Public Defender opposed the bill as too harsh and urged either a lower penalty or clearer statutory definitions of “under the influence,” while the Prosecuting Attorney supported it as a needed increase in accountability for drunk drivers who actually injure someone. Committee members raised concerns about overlap with existing offenses, proportionality, and whether the change would increase jury-trial volume; the prosecutor responded that the bill would apply to a smaller subset of cases involving actual injury and would help ensure more serious treatment of those cases. The committee also heard SB 292, establishing Safe Harbor protections for survivors of sexual exploitation who seek medical or law enforcement assistance, with testimony in support from the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, HPD, U Alliance, and others, and no opposition. SB 31, concerning an additional penalty for dog owners whose dogs destroy property on agricultural land, drew only supportive testimony. SB 356 would require restitution in the form of financial support to the minor children of victims killed or disabled by an intoxicated driver; the Public Defender opposed it as better suited to civil court and questioned enforcement after probation, while the Prosecuting Attorney supported it and said courts can issue enforceable restitution orders. Testimony also strongly supported SB 1284, a proposed constitutional amendment prohibiting discrimination based on ethnicity, age, disability, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, and pregnancy outcomes, with supporters arguing it would strengthen protections in response to current political conditions. No votes or final committee actions were taken in the excerpt.

Transcript Highlights:

• It just says that if we are going to give them deferred entry of judgment, which really is meant for
• And unfortunately, we have seen cases where juveniles were given deferred entry of judgment. for your
• It just says that if we are going to give them deferred entry of judgment, which really is meant for
• And unfortunately, we have seen cases where juveniles were given deferred entry of judgment.
• entry of judgment, because deferred entry of judgment is supposed to be for low-level offenses.

Keywords: 987, senate, all

Summary: The committee first heard AB 647, a cleanup bill to AB 630 that would clarify that local agencies in Los Angeles and Alameda counties can use a pilot program to remove and dismantle certain abandoned, inoperable RVs valued at $4,000 or less. Supporters, including the author and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass’s representative, said the measure would help address public health and safety hazards tied to dilapidated RVs and homelessness. Opponents argued existing abandoned-vehicle laws already provide tools, and warned the bill could be used to remove vehicles occupied by unhoused residents without offering services. AB 647 was later approved on a due pass to Appropriations vote. The committee then considered AB 1656, which would give courts discretion to consider a prosecutor’s scheduling conflict when deciding whether to continue a human trafficking case, with amendments making the continuance discretionary and limited. Supporters said the bill would help preserve vertical prosecution and continuity for traumatized survivors; opponents raised speedy-trial and due process concerns. After discussion about balancing victim support and constitutional rights, the committee voted AB 1656 out on a due pass as amended to the floor. Members also heard AB 917, which would require prosecutors to file a motion to reinstate charges dismissed at a preliminary hearing rather than simply adding them back, with amendments clarifying procedures and violent felony refiling. Supporters said it would protect due process and respect judicial decisions; district attorneys opposed the bill as procedurally unnecessary and burdensome. The committee approved AB 917 on a due pass as amended to Appropriations. AB 2636, which would require courts to consider loaded-firearm possession when deciding whether a juvenile is eligible for deferred entry of judgment, also passed on a due pass to the floor after supporters emphasized public safety and opponents argued it would reduce rehabilitative opportunities for youth. Finally, the committee heard AB 1632, which would replace the notarization requirement for 602 trespass authorization letters with a statement under penalty of perjury. Supporters said the change would reduce administrative burden and help property owners and police address trespassing more efficiently; opponents warned it could weaken safeguards and be misused against tenants or unhoused people. The bill passed on a due pass as amended to the floor. The hearing also began consideration of AB 1974, a voluntary firearm safe-storage bill inspired by Pierce’s Pledge, with the author and a survivor advocate presenting the measure, but the transcript cuts off before the committee completed action on that bill.

Transcript Highlights:

• Well, it was used for me on a summary judgment. Okay.
• admission, either get a summary judgment or something?
• Just put that exception for default judgments.
• Or deferring your bill, but deferring to the... to Representative... Well, I don't share y'all...
• I mean, most of the judgment you did an objection.

Keywords: 974, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• ..." "...and I will defer to my expert witness to address the first part of your question."
• , and ultimately..." "...the clinical outcomes and providers' clinical judgment.
• Madam Chair, I'll defer to my expert. Lab testing in New Mexico right now.
• I'm Chair, I'll defer to my expert.
• I defer to my expert. I'm sure... Southwest? I defer to my expert.

Keywords: 996, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Point, listen, I'll voluntarily defer if that's the case.
• Would you like to voluntarily defer at this time?
• At this time, Representative Wright has a voluntary deferred House Bill 1168.
• To voluntary defer? House Bill 1168 has been voluntarily deferred. Okay, all right. Yes, sir.
• All right, we have a motion to voluntarily defer House Bill 1163.

Summary: The House Committee on Commerce met on May 18, 2026, with a quorum present and the chair noting it was the committee’s last meeting of the session. The committee first considered Senate Bill 254, which would prohibit certain excess debit card surcharges and authorize enforcement by the Attorney General. After adopting technical amendments and a committee amendment requiring written notice before a private right of action, the bill was reported favorably as amended. The committee then took up Senate Bill 80 on broadband administration fees and GUMBO program closeout. Members questioned the proposed increase in administrative and contractor fees, the timing of project completion, and how withheld reimbursements would work for utility damage. After adopting several amendments, including cleanup language and a provision to restore the reimbursement process, the bill was reported favorably as amended, though the Louisiana Telecommunications Association voiced concerns about the withholding language and lack of a clearer fault-determination process. The committee next considered Senate Bill 469, updating the Louisiana Underground Utilities and Facilities Damage Prevention Law. Technical amendments were adopted, along with amendments clarifying that the bill’s 30-day notice to utility owner-operators is separate from existing GUMBO notice requirements and creating a rapid dispute-resolution process involving the Office of Broadband, the utility operator, and the local governing authority. Testimony from broadband and municipal stakeholders emphasized the need for quicker responses to excavation damage and better enforcement, while some witnesses raised concerns about the late amendment and the need for clearer recourse and standards. The bill was reported favorably as amended. Senate Bill 468, dealing with fuel rewards programs and fuel discount limits, was also amended to allow such discounts while capping them at $1 below the advertised price; it was reported favorably as amended. Senate Bill 131, concerning attorney’s fees and costs in professional licensing disciplinary proceedings, drew testimony from a cosmetology board representative and the Pelican Institute. Supporters argued the bill would curb incentives for boards to generate revenue through enforcement and give licensees a fairer opportunity to resolve cases; board testimony noted that some boards already have fee caps and that enforcement actions are relatively limited. After adopting an amendment clarifying when a licensee is the prevailing party, the bill was reported favorably as amended. Senate Bill 251 on critical infrastructure protection also received technical amendments and several substantive changes, including adding ports and airports to the definition of critical infrastructure, clarifying “significant access,” adding a knowledge requirement, and adjusting exemptions and enforcement timing; it was reported favorably as amended after testimony from State Armor representatives about foreign adversary threats. Finally, House Resolution 253 was introduced to create a task force to study how post-2005 building code additions and inspection requirements affect residential construction costs, with the sponsor explaining the goal was to gather industry input and return recommendations next session.

Transcript Highlights:

• Sometimes they get all the way to the end and it gets rejected or denied or deferred.
• Sometimes they get all the way to the end and it gets rejected or denied or deferred.
• We've deferred the first measure, relating to air filters, because there was no testimony in support
• So we're going to be deferring that measure indefinitely.
• <00:27:03.760> that so we're going to be deferring that so we're going to be deferring that

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The Senate Agriculture and Environment Committee heard five bills on January 24, 2025. SB 1 would phase out disposable air filters and require reusable air filters by 2030; testimony was limited, with one supporter urging clearer definitions of fiberglass and paper and several opponents listed, and the committee later deferred the bill indefinitely for lack of support testimony. SB 13 would create an aquaculture investment tax credit beginning in 2026; state agencies and several industry groups supported it, while the Tax Foundation raised concerns about loose definitions, internal inconsistencies, and blanks that made the bill hard to estimate or vet. The committee passed SB 13 with amendments and technical changes, and deferred its effective date to July 1, 2015 as stated on the record. SB 177 would shift aquatic livestock import and movement permitting to the Department of Agriculture’s Animal Industry Division, require a risk-based assessment and biocontainment standards, and seek a $1 million appropriation for research and staffing. The Department of Agriculture said the bill would help expand aquaculture while managing risks to native species; aquaculture and farm groups supported it, while Animal Rights Hawaii was listed in opposition. The committee passed SB 177 with amendments, blanking the appropriation for committee report consideration, and deferred its effective date to July 1, 2050. SB 184 would raise the beverage container deposit and refund from 5 cents to 10 cents. Supporters said the higher deposit could improve recycling and environmental outcomes, while opponents, including the Tax Foundation, cited fraud concerns, the program’s existing fund balance, and practical challenges in redemption; the Department of Human Services also noted potential impacts on blind vendors. The committee took the bill up but deferred decision-making until Monday, January 27, 2025, at 10:01 p.m. in Room 224. The committee also heard SB 250, which would increase the income tax credit for interisland transportation costs for agricultural products. Agricultural and industry witnesses supported the bill as a way to offset rising shipping costs and preserve access to markets, while the Tax Foundation preferred direct appropriations over tax credits and objected to missing bill details. The committee passed SB 250 with amendments from the Department of Agriculture and deferred its effective date to July 1, 2050. Separately, a joint hearing on SB 240, the Right to Farm bill, drew mixed testimony: the Department of Agriculture supported further study and raised concerns about the bill’s fragmented approach, while farm, cattle, and other industry witnesses split between support for protecting customary Native Hawaiian subsistence farming and opposition to excluding CAFOs and certain business structures. No vote was taken on SB 240 in the portion provided.

Transcript Highlights:

• >> So moved. >> No, deferred. >> Oh, to deferred. Excuse me.
• >> no.<00:28:09.480> No,<00:28:09.560> deferred. >> no. No, deferred.
• No, deferred. Oh,<00:28:11.080> to<00:28:11.280> deferred. Oh, to deferred.
• Deferred without objections. Excuse me. Deferred without objections.
• we're not placing a moral judgment. we're not placing a moral judgment.

Keywords: 958, all

Summary: The committee first approved the September 19 meeting minutes and then took up a deferred University of Kentucky personal services contract amendment for guardianship services. UK officials explained that the contract covers court-appointed guardians for patients who cannot make medical decisions and are not eligible for state guardianship, with the work funded by UK Medical Center agency dollars rather than the general fund. Members questioned the large increase in the not-to-exceed amount, the number of cases, the hourly billing structure, and whether there are safeguards to prevent unnecessary costs or reimbursement issues if a patient later has resources. UK said the increase reflects shifting work from a prior firm, anticipated new cases, a move from a monthly fee to hourly billing, and the need for a second firm because one prior attorney died and another firm has had difficulty appearing in court promptly. The committee ultimately approved the contract, while Senator Thomas said he would vote aye but urged future review of attorney fee limits and broader guardianship statutes, which he described as outdated and inconsistent. The committee then deferred three Office of Energy Policy memorandum of agreement items to the November 2025 meeting without objection. After that, it approved the remaining agenda items, including the contract lists and deferred items not separately selected for review. The final major item was a University of Kentucky personal services contract related to fundraising and philanthropic outreach. UK representatives said the contract supports marketing and donor engagement efforts to grow the university’s endowment pipeline and philanthropic support. The transcript cuts off before the committee finished its questions or took final action on that item.

Transcript Highlights:

• As you assess risk, your deferred assets as well.
• It's not a decision on our end about how much to recognize or defer.
• Historically, we haven't been deferring this much asset, have we?
• So we'll defer that decision to then so that we can discuss it.
• So we'll defer that decision to then so that we can discuss it.

Summary: The committee approved the July minutes and then received an informational presentation from the Office of the State Actuary on the financial condition of the state retirement systems. The actuary reported that employer contribution rates are generally declining, helped by strong investment returns and reduced funding for PERS 1 and TERS 1, while funded ratios have continued to improve; on a combined basis the plans were reported at 100% funded in 2024, with open plans above 95% and legacy plans varying by system. The presentation also reviewed projected rates and funded ratios under current assumptions, noted that pension costs are taking a smaller share of the state general fund, and discussed risks from investment volatility, policy changes, and demographic experience. Committee members asked about savings from lower rates, deferred asset smoothing, and how Washington compares with other states. The committee then considered the state actuary’s recommendation on long-term economic assumptions and adopted all four recommendations by roll call votes: inflation at 3.0%, general salary growth at 3.5%, membership growth for Plan 1 funding at 1.0%, and investment rate of return at 7.25%. The actuaries explained that the inflation and salary growth increases were driven largely by higher long-term inflation expectations, while the investment return recommendation matched the current statutory assumption. Members discussed the timing of the Pension Funding Council’s decision, the effect of tariffs and inflation uncertainty, and how assumption changes would affect future contribution rates and budgets, particularly for open plans. Staff then gave an update on the LEOFF 1 study, explaining the difference between being “ahead of schedule” and truly overfunded, and summarizing responses received from DRS, the State Treasurer, and the State Investment Board on the merger and restatement proposals. DRS said both bills could be administered, though the merger bill’s COLA banking provision would be challenging until its new system is ready; the Treasurer urged caution, especially about the restatement bill and the use of one-time funds; and the Investment Board said removing assets from the trust would have some transaction costs but likely small impacts. The committee discussed whether to invite additional agencies and local government groups to testify, and staff said more responses, including from Ice Miller and the State Actuary, were expected for the October meeting. Finally, the committee heard a briefing on PERS 1/TERS 1 COLA policy and related bills from the last session. Staff reviewed the committee’s prior ongoing COLA recommendation, the SCPP-endorsed bills that would have created a one-time 3% COLA followed by an ongoing COLA, the Senate merger bill, and a separate ad hoc COLA bill. Public testimony largely supported Plan 1 COLAs and stable contribution rates, while several speakers urged caution about transferring LEOFF 1 surplus assets or merging legacy plans, and others raised concerns about climate risk and the pension fund’s investments. No further committee action was taken on the COLA item during this portion of the meeting.

Transcript Highlights:

• If they choose not to defer, the bill keeps the regulation moving.
• Sometimes they chose to defer. Sometimes we asked them to defer. They agreed to defer.
• Sometimes they chose to defer. Sometimes we asked them to defer. They agreed to defer.
• I'm the executive director for Kentucky Deferred Comp.
• for Kentucky defer for Kentucky defer comp<00:27:52.399> um<00:27:52.799> so<00:27

Keywords: Meeting Start: 00:11 Attendance Roll Call: 00:18 Senate Bill 10 (Sen. Mills): 01:47 Senate Bill 65 (Sen. West): 18:47 Senate Bill 104 (Sen. Madon): 25:41 Adjournment: 31:38, 958, all

Summary: The Senate Standing Committee on State and Local Government heard testimony on Senate Bill 10, which would revise CERS retiree health subsidies for members who began participating on or before July 1, 2003. Senator Mills said the bill was developed with employee and employer groups to improve retiree health benefits while protecting the system’s financial footing, using a shared-cost structure. Testimony from sheriffs, police chiefs, firefighters, and the League of Cities strongly supported the bill, emphasizing recruitment and retention, affordability of retiree health coverage, and limited taxpayer risk. Members echoed those points, and the committee approved SB 10 with a 9-0 favorable recommendation. The committee then took up Senate Bill 65, sponsored by Senator West, which would codify the Administrative Regulations Committee’s annual practice of placing certain deficient regulations into statute so they cannot take effect. West explained that the committee’s role is limited to finding regulations deficient or asking for deferral, and that SB 65 is the fifth version of this measure. He described the specific regulation at issue as a Medicaid Services rule that would have required behavioral health associates to hold a master’s degree; providers testified that it would reduce the workforce and harm behavioral health services statewide. West said the committee had deferred the matter eight times before deciding to side with providers. The bill received favorable expression and was reported out. Finally, the committee heard Senate Bill 104, sponsored by Senator Madon, concerning Kentucky Deferred Comp for state employees. The bill would establish a codified fiduciary standard, authorize fiduciary liability insurance, add self-correcting mechanisms to keep the plan in compliance with federal law, and allow self-directed brokerage accounts. Personnel Cabinet representatives said the changes would align the plan with other public pension plans, reduce risk, and offer participants a useful investment option with strong account growth among users. SB 104 also received favorable expression and was reported to the floor. The committee then adjourned.

Transcript Highlights:

• Our deferred decision making won't be until the end of the calendar.
• Our deferred decision making won't be until the end of the calendar.
• Our deferred decision making won't be until the end of the calendar.
• Our deferred decision making won't be until the end of the calendar.
• recommendation is this time is to defer recommendation is this time is to defer decision<00:38:11.440

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The Health and Human Services Committee heard a series of gubernatorial nominations, primarily to the State Rehabilitation Council, the Policy Advisory Board for Elder Affairs (PABEA), the Hawaii State LGBTQ+ Commission, and the Center for Nursing Advisory Board. Nominees included Patrick Gartside, Judith Daniels, James Montgomery (not present), Christine Park, Tammy Napoleon, Scott Spelina, Roy Katsuda, and Dr. Sylvia Rom. Each nominee described their background and why they wanted to serve, with recurring themes of disability advocacy, vocational rehabilitation, nursing workforce development, elder issues, and LGBTQ+ health and community support. Department of Human Services and Executive Office on Aging representatives generally testified in strong support of the nominees and emphasized their qualifications and relevance to the boards’ missions. Members and agency witnesses also discussed substantive policy issues during the nominations. For PABEA nominee Scott Spelina, the committee asked about a bill involving strict liability and elder abuse-related criminal penalties; Spelina supported the approach, saying it would be easier to enforce and better protect seniors. For other nominees, testimony highlighted the need for stronger rehabilitation services, qualified vocational rehabilitation counselors, adult education partnerships, and nursing recruitment and retention, especially on Kauaʻi. Dr. Sylvia Rom’s nomination drew broad support from commission members and community supporters, with testimony focusing on LGBTQ+ health, gender-expansive youth, and intersectional advocacy. No final votes were taken during the hearing. The chair repeatedly stated that decision-making would be deferred until later in the calendar, and in some cases until the nominee was present or quorum was available. One nomination, James Montgomery, was skipped because he was not present on Zoom, and Kevin Nakamura’s nomination was also deferred to a later date. The committee accepted written and oral testimony and generally moved through the nominations without questions from members.

Transcript Highlights:

• What rules are being changed with regard to summary judgment?
• motions for summary judgment but also for judges to respond to motions for summary judgment, are set
• Need to be encouraged to set motions for summary judgment for hearing.
• Chairman Leach, was it the subject matter of this summary judgment amendment, or the summary judgment
• I know you deferred, but were you able to explain each of these?

Bills: HB17, HB16, SB 10, HB27, HB23, SB 15, SB 18, HB 17, HB 16, SB 10, HB 27, HB 23, SB 15, SB 18

Keywords: property tax, school funding, enrollment changes, inflation adjustment, tax rate notice, judicial administration, court reform, juvenile diversion, court security, mental health services, drug offenses, constitutional amendments, property tax exemption, ad valorem tax, Texas Tax Code, nonprofit corporation, charitable organization, educational nonprofit, scientific nonprofit, agriculture support

Transcript Highlights:

• That means if we even if we win in the case and we get a judgment, if we get the judgment after 15 years
• That means if we even if we win in the case and we get a judgment, if we get the judgment after 15 years
• That means if we even if we win in the case and we get a judgment, if we get the judgment after 15 years
• That means if we even if we win in the case and we get a judgment, if we get the judgment after 15 years
• deferred maintenance and other things. deferred maintenance and other things.

Keywords: 910, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• , Commission to make certain judgments, Commission to make certain judgments, considerations,<00:
• Recommendation on this one is to defer any discussion. >> Okay.
• Recommendation on this one is to defer any discussion. >> Okay.
• Recommendation on this one is to defer any discussion. >> Okay.
• Recommendation on this one is to defer any discussion. >> Okay.

Bills: SCR96, SCR109, SCR164, SCR172, SCR166

Keywords: electric reliability, renewable energy, interconnection, Hawaii Electric Reliability Administrator, Public Utilities Commission, capacity shortfalls, energy policies, mail-order pharmacy, insurance, healthcare access, chronic disease management, cost savings, rural access, emergency healthcare, patient adherence, critical infrastructure, foreign influence, local control, energy dependence, economic resilience

Summary: The Committee on Consumer Protection and Commerce heard several Senate concurrent resolutions related to utilities, pharmacy access, critical infrastructure, and energy policy. STR 96 SD1 asked the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) to report on the progress of the Hawaii Electric Reliability Administrator; the PUC offered written comments and the measure later advanced as is. STR 109 SD1 urged the insurance commissioner to study expanding mail-order pharmacy use. Testimony was split: DCCA’s insurance division, HMSA, and the Hawaii Association of Health Plans supported the study, while Shipa and the Hawaii Pharmacist Association opposed it, arguing mail-order pharmacy is already available and that in-person pharmacist counseling should be preserved. The measure was ultimately deferred. The committee also heard STR 164 SD1 on protecting Hawaii’s critical infrastructure from foreign influence. Greenpeace Hawaii and 350 Hawaii strongly supported the resolution, framing it as a consumer protection and resilience measure tied to reducing dependence on imports and strengthening local food and energy systems. No opposition was presented, and the resolution was moved out as is. STR 172 SD1 HD1 directed the PUC to conduct a comprehensive analysis of ways to maximize cost reduction and minimize financial risk while meeting state goals. DCCA, the Hawaii State Energy Office, and the PUC offered comments, and Earthjustice supported the measure; it was also advanced as is. For STR 166 SD1, which concerns how the PUC should evaluate generational energy commitments, DCCA, the Hawaii State Energy Office, and the PUC provided comments, while 350 Hawaii, Greenpeace Hawaii, and others opposed any move toward LNG, arguing it would harm ratepayers and conflict with Hawaii’s renewable goals. After discussion, the committee amended the resolution to add language directing the PUC to evaluate any LNG or other imported-fuel proposal for its potential effects on or delays to the state’s renewable portfolio standards, including the 2045 deadline. The amended resolution then passed, and the committee adjourned.

Bills: HB91, HB123, HB167, HB255, HB264, HB321, HB884, HB955, HB967, HB968, HB969, HB978, HB985, HB994, HB1005, HB1104, HB1107, HB1109, SCR3

Keywords: criminal procedure, disclosure, criminal records, witness protection, trial rights, electronic monitoring, GPS ankle monitor, ankle bracelet, pretrial release, post-conviction supervision, bail monitoring, house arrest, corrections, criminal justice, law enforcement, prosecuting authority, court reporting, provider registration, LCLE, Louisiana Commission on Law Enforcement and Administration of Criminal Justice

Bills: HB37, HB51, HB173, HB180, HB192, HB306, HB366, HB393, HB485, HB516, HB521, HB526, HB638, HB752, HB817, HB976, HB1006, HB1044

Keywords: HB37, expropriation, eminent domain, property rights, foreign entity, foreign corporation, limited liability company, LLC, reciprocal expropriation agreement, Louisiana property law, land acquisition, utility infrastructure, public utilities, railroad, waterworks, sewerage, natural gas pipeline, electric utility, telecommunications, carbon dioxide pipeline