Transcript Highlights:

• Based on market analysis and guidance from insurance experts, it would now cost our district over $3.5
• This substitute makes several changes based on the witnesses that we had in the committee hearing and
• That's part of the game. We understand that.
• That's part of the game. We understand that.
• We need those types of dedicated sports officials to ensure our game is played properly and safely.

Summary: The Committee on Education K-16 heard testimony on SB 1635, which would give certain coastal, recapture-paying school districts a credit against recapture payments for mandatory windstorm and hail insurance costs. Senator Hinojosa said the bill is intended to offset unusually high insurance expenses for districts in Tier 1 or Tier 2 coastal zones, and he estimated about a $12 million impact to state revenue. Witnesses from Port Aransas ISD and Gregory-Portland ISD described sharp premium increases, reduced coverage, higher deductibles, and the effect on teacher pay and classroom spending. Senators asked about the number of affected districts, the accuracy of the fiscal estimate, and whether the bill might encourage districts to maintain coverage. Public testimony was closed and SB 1635 was left pending. The committee then took up several other bills and committee substitutes, adopting and reporting favorably SB 2786, SB 2623, SB 646, SB 843, SB 2392, SB 1998, SB 1418, SB 2788, and SB 2076, with most votes unanimous or near-unanimous. SB 2392 was amended to add improper relationship between educator and student to mandatory reporting offenses and to authorize an attorney general civil penalty for failure to report. SB 2623 was revised to clarify duties and exemptions related to the Safe Schools and Neighborhood Task Force and school proximity restrictions. SB 843 would create a TEA database of school district bonds and related projects, and SB 2788 would exempt certain PSAT scorers from the Texas Success Initiative assessment. The committee also heard SB 2929, which would allow referees and other officials at school athletic events to immediately eject disruptive spectators. The Texas Association of Sports Officials testified in support, citing abusive spectator behavior and a shortage of officials. SB 2929 was left pending. Finally, the committee heard a substitute for SB 2927 on 1882 partnerships and a substitute for SB 2619, which would require more transparency and accountability for failing school districts, superintendent hiring, trustee training, and takeover timelines. Testimony on SB 2619 was mixed, with one witness from Texas 2036 supporting parts of the bill’s accountability provisions. The committee adopted the substitute for SB 2619, left it pending, and then recessed subject to the call of the chair.

Transcript Highlights:

• Today, I narrate audiobooks and voice characters in video games.
• Today, I narrate audiobooks and voice characters in video games.
• Today, I narrate audiobooks and voice characters in video games.
• Today, I narrate audiobooks and voice characters in video games.
• I'm based out of Stillwater. My client was huddled next to me on a bench in a holding cell.

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• I mean, at a base level, can you get cash out of them? Yes, you can redeem your...
• I mean, at a base level, can you get cash out of them?
• It looked almost like a video game.
• We do not find that these costs varied based on homeowners' credit scores.
• and using their skills.

Summary: The committee first heard a work session on cryptocurrency kiosks from the Department of Financial Institutions and Spokane City Councilmember Paul Dillon. DFI described crypto kiosks as licensed money transmission terminals that allow cash purchases of virtual currency, and said the main concern is fraud: scammers often pressure victims, especially older adults, to deposit cash into kiosks and send it to wallets controlled by organized crime. DFI cited a sharp increase in kiosk volume, nationwide fraud complaints and losses, and said Washington currently has licensing and disclosure rules but lacks transaction and fee limits. The department said it is seeking stronger disclosures, a $1,000 daily transaction limit, and a fee cap. Spokane described its unanimous ordinance banning new kiosks and removing existing ones after local scam reports, and members asked about how the machines work, whether the fraud is in the hardware or the transaction, and whether stronger warnings or screening could help. The committee then reviewed home equity sharing agreements, or CHISAs, based on a report by Mariana Amaram and testimony from DFI and industry representatives. The report found that CHISAs provide homeowners a lump sum in exchange for a share of future home value or appreciation, with no monthly payments, but that consumers often struggle to understand the products and settlement calculations. The report said the market has grown quickly in Washington, that costs can be hard to predict, and that early uncapped contracts could produce very high settlement amounts, especially during periods of rising home prices. DFI said it views these products as mortgage loans and is moving forward with rulemaking, including counseling and clearer disclosures, while industry witnesses said the products are equity-based rather than debt-based and asked for tailored regulation. Members discussed the need for better consumer education, clearer payoff schedules, and whether the products should be treated as mortgages or a separate category. The final panel focused on Washington’s space economy, with presentations from Amazon Leo, Blue Origin, Stoke Space, Space Northwest, and Green River College. Speakers highlighted major in-state investments in satellite manufacturing, launch systems, and workforce training, including Amazon Leo’s Redmond and Kirkland facilities, Blue Origin’s Kent headquarters, and Stoke Space’s Kent manufacturing and Moses Lake test site. Space Northwest presented data showing the sector’s growing economic footprint, high-wage jobs, and regional clusters in Kent and Redmond, and urged more workforce programs, incentives, infrastructure support, and a state space commission. The companies emphasized local hiring, apprenticeship and certification programs, and the role of Washington’s aerospace supply chain in supporting the broader space industry. No votes were taken during the transcript excerpt.

Transcript Highlights:

• And the skilled labor is second to none within And the skilled labor is second to none within our union
• use skilled labor.
• We want local skilled craftsmen to be able to live and work in their area.
• I do have some concerns based on what we've heard today.
• I do have some concerns based on what we've heard today.

Keywords: 999, senate, all

Summary: The committee first heard SB 1236, which would make state economic development incentives contingent on employers using secret-ballot union elections and prohibiting neutrality agreements. Senator Massullo said the bill was intended to guide how the state spends taxpayer dollars, not to regulate private businesses directly, and noted he would adjust the Attorney General enforcement language to allow appeals. Several speakers opposed the bill as government overreach and union-busting, while supporters argued it protected workers from card-check coercion and aligned with existing NLRB secret-ballot procedures. The committee reported the bill favorably on a divided vote. The committee then took up CS/SB 198, a bill to regulate cryptocurrency kiosks in response to fraud targeting seniors and other vulnerable Floridians. The bill requires kiosk registration, fraud warnings, transaction limits, receipts, blockchain analytics, and refund protections for certain first-time transactions. Support came from the Florida Bankers Association, AARP, and others who described widespread scams and losses; one industry witness supported the bill but suggested narrower limits for existing users. The committee reported the bill favorably. Next, the committee considered CS/SB 1356 on dog breeding, pet sales, and consumer protections. After adopting an amendment removing state oversight of local animal shelters, the sponsor described the bill as a response to puppy mills and inhumane breeding conditions, with breeder registration, welfare standards, financing disclosures, and penalties for violations. Petland supported much of the bill but objected to the waiting period, shelter-space requirement, expanded lemon-law remedies, and unfair trade practice provisions. The committee reported the bill favorably. The committee also heard SB 1722 on app stores and minors, requiring age verification, parental consent, app-content disclosures, and enforcement by the Department of Legal Affairs. Testimony split between supporters who said it would strengthen child safety and opponents who warned of privacy, data-security, and constitutional concerns; the bill was reported favorably after debate.

Transcript Highlights:

• One, whether you look at it from a constitutional-based aspect of what we're supposed to be funding,
• And I don't know how you guys can actually do this, but tying it to outcome-based aspects.
• , we're not allowing people to game the system.
• Whether it's an outcome-based performance-based metric or something else, we should be doing that.
• She's like, well, you don't have her paying attention skills. And I'm like, well, what's that?

Keywords: 989, all

Summary: The committee heard extended testimony from Representative Josh Tanner, co-chair of JFAC, focused on Idaho education funding and broader state budgeting. Tanner argued the state has a spending problem more than a revenue problem, saying revenues remain strong but costs are being driven by policy decisions, supplementals, Medicaid, corrections, and other obligations. He urged the committee to examine education through an outcomes-based lens, saying the current funding formula is overly complex, tied to outdated models, and not producing enough measurable improvement in reading, math, or test performance. Tanner also raised concerns about declining enrollment in some districts, possible loopholes in school funding tied to students enrolled for sports but not attending classes, and what he described as excessive spending on technology in classrooms. He said the Legislature should revisit old policies, consider simplifying or sunsetting programs, and use audits and LSO/Impact Team presentations to better understand how funding formulas and support units work. Several members responded by agreeing that the committee should gather more information, review fiscal notes more carefully, and consider whether policy changes are needed to improve accountability and reduce waste. Members also discussed the relationship between policy and budgeting, with some arguing that policy decisions drive financial burdens and that the committee should protect children and local control rather than systems. Questions were raised about whether JFAC work groups can recommend cuts or eliminations, and Tanner said they can help identify issues but that policy changes must come from the committee. In response to a question about student mental health, Tanner said the state funds resources such as 988 and behavioral health programs, but he supported reviewing contracts and accountability. The chair said he would coordinate with JFAC to obtain materials for further committee review, and the meeting adjourned without any formal vote or action on legislation.

Transcript Highlights:

• So based on this investigation in Iowa.
• Through reimbursement-based grants.
• Y'all do chemical-based byproducts... Agriculture, plastics, things like that a lot.
• I've got written testimony at base. says, too expensive, too risky, and too slow.
• This is especially highlighted in skilled trades.

Bills: HB 11, HB 14, HB 132, HB 1584, HB 1606, HB 5061, HB 1041, HB 2286

Keywords: licensing, reciprocity, regulation, Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, interstate agreements, nuclear energy, advanced reactors, energy security, grant programs, Texas Advanced Nuclear Energy Office, HB 132, Texas Government Code Chapter 418, Public Information Act, confidential records, homeland security, foreign adversary, terrorism, critical infrastructure, emergency response, law enforcement

Summary: The meeting was a thorough exploration of multiple bills, most notably focused on innovative energy solutions and public safety enhancements. Key discussions centered around HB14, which aims to bolster the state's nuclear energy capabilities through the establishment of a Texas Advanced Nuclear Energy Office. Senators and expert witnesses discussed the potential of nuclear power as a clean energy source and a strategic necessity for Texas's growth. There was strong support for the bill, with various stakeholders highlighting its importance for the future energy landscape. Additionally, other bills like HB132 addressed the need for enhanced confidentiality protections regarding sensitive information, while HB1584 sought improvements in power restoration procedures during emergencies. Overall, the committee engaged with multiple viewpoints, balancing innovation with safety and ethical considerations.

Transcript Highlights:

• </c> favorite part is that there's no base favorite part is that there's no base budget<00:09:46.399>
• </c> talk about how we play the long game talk about how we play the long game here<00:25:42.720><c>
• </c><00:58:22.200><c> at</c> projects together are very skilled at projects together are very skilled
• </c><00:58:58.720><c> too</c> in with their own skin in the game too in with their own skin in the game
• And it’s not a rich person’s game here.

Keywords: 1183, house

Transcript Highlights:

• states that the Office of Higher Ed will determine the top 20 in-demand industries and occupations based
• Building and retaining a skilled workforce that is responsive to the evolving needs of the economy is
• Through the clinic, we both develop student skills. and we help protect our community.
• NRRI, the Natural Resource Research Institute, is based in Duluth and in Coleraine.
• It's building an industrial ecosystem, hydrogen-based.

Bills: HF2634, HF2241, HF2649, HF2520, HF2610

Keywords: North Star Promise, scholarship, higher education, Minnesota Office of Higher Education, in-demand jobs, workforce development, career training, job market, high-demand occupations, high-demand industries, college aid, state financial aid, FAFSA, student eligibility, program of study, degree program, certificate program, community college, university, labor market data

Transcript Highlights:

• Many of the federal funds are not necessarily based on how they're working.
• All of our communities of practice are based in research and research-based best practices.
• It's a game changer.
• It's a game changer.
• and higher-level thinking skills than many of my high school students.

Summary: The committee first heard a presentation on strategic resource management in public education. LESC staff and PED officials argued that New Mexico has increased school funding, but local budgeting and planning remain fragmented and overly compliance-driven. They described long-term pressures including declining enrollment, rising special education costs, falling cash balances, changes in federal funding, and leadership turnover, and said schools need more intentional multi-year planning tied to student outcomes. They also outlined the many disconnected planning requirements schools must complete, compared New Mexico’s current approach with Ohio’s three-year budget forecasting model, and recommended continuing multi-year appropriations, adding $2.5 million for state grants in the unified application, and directing LESC, LFC, and PED to develop a long-term financial planning proposal. PED said it is working to reduce administrative burden through school accreditation, a unified application for federal and state funds, and internal alignment of guidance and coaching, with pilot schools reporting time savings and better alignment. Members raised concerns about four-day school weeks, the burden on small districts, the need for outcomes and return on investment, and whether the state should move toward a two-year or three-year planning cycle; staff clarified that the proposal was to streamline or eliminate redundant requirements, not add another layer. The committee then received an update on the Educator Fellows program. PED described it as a Grow Your Own pipeline that employs candidates as supplemental educational assistants while they work toward licensure, providing salary, benefits, paid leave, mentoring, and coursework support. Officials said the program helps address teacher shortages, improves student-to-teacher ratios, increases workforce diversity, and supports the Martinez-Yazzie action plan. They reported 370 current fellows across 86 LEAs and about 180 schools, with many fellows being people of color, first-generation college students, or second-career educators; roughly 85 are expected to become certified this year. A local HR director from Belen testified that the program has been especially valuable in small communities, where fellows are already rooted in the community and several have moved into teaching roles. Members asked about high school recruitment, tuition, retirement and benefits, the relationship to the Higher Education Department’s Grow Your Own scholarship, and the role of university partners. PED said fellows choose among accredited higher education partners, the program is separate from the scholarship but complementary, and the state is also building an apprenticeship model and seeking to expand the program to more LEAs, though some districts are on a waiting list because of funding and local match requirements.

Transcript Highlights:

• It is different based on the catchment basin.
• Sir, Ron Fandrews, Texas Game Wardens.
• Ron Vandreus, Game Wardens.
• A weather event might do based on that.
• That's a base minimum.

Keywords: flooding, emergency response, communication systems, first responders, disaster management, Texas Water Development Board, regional planning, public safety

Summary: The meeting primarily focused on discussions around the recent floods in Texas, specifically addressing emergency preparedness, response coordination, and recovery efforts. Officials from various agencies provided testimonies on the challenges faced during the emergency, including issues with communication systems among first responders. Notably, the need for improved inter-agency communication and technology integration was emphasized, with recommendations for establishing regional communications units for better coordination during disasters. The audience included local government representatives and emergency management partners, who shared insights and experiences from the recent flooding events.

Transcript Highlights:

• The first is a zero-based rule with comments, and that should be a two-sided document.
• Page 38, item F21, back when the original code was written, iGaming and online gaming did not exist,
• patronized by people who are a little bit older, and we want to make sure that the integrity of the game
• I didn't know you had such great skill in negotiating difficult issues, but to watch you work was truly
• But most importantly, this gives us the ability to protect our current rate base, but also provide us

Keywords: 989, all

Summary: The committee first approved the minutes from March 16 and then took up three administrative rule dockets. The Idaho State Lottery explained changes to clarify ownership language, update references from online gaming to draw games, and strengthen bingo paper serialization; the Secretary of State said its docket removed outdated rules that had been moved into statute by House Bill 398; and the Department of Administration described housekeeping changes to Capitol Mall parking rules, including shortening language and removing obsolete provisions. All three rule dockets were adopted without opposition. The committee then heard Senate Bill 1258, a specialty liquor license bill for rural distilleries. Sponsors said it would allow a Koenig Distillery outside Caldwell city limits to serve its own products by the drink, exempt it from food-service requirements, and support agritourism and rural business development. The distillery owner testified in favor, saying the bill would help the business expand and hire more workers, and a local representative also supported it. The bill was sent to the floor with a do-pass recommendation. Finally, the committee considered House Bill 911, the Ratepayer Protection Act. Sponsors and utility representatives said the bill would codify Public Utility Commission practices for new large electric loads of 50 megawatts or more, require a no-harm test, and ensure any new infrastructure or stranded costs are not shifted to existing ratepayers. Rocky Mountain Power said the measure would help protect current customers while allowing creative contracts for growth. The committee voted to send the bill to the floor with a do-pass recommendation and then adjourned.

Transcript Highlights:

• Chair, the only reason I bring that up and I ask Game and Fish and Mr.
• Bradley, so then based on what you're saying and based on the few things I learned when I was in law
• on and pushing this idea based on choosing people based on their group membership rather than on their
• on and pushing this idea based on choosing people based on the group membership rather than on their
• Based on race or sex? Mr. Chair, what's your name? Michael. Of course.

Summary: The committee first heard House Bill 2763, which would require a joint resolution of the legislature before the Arizona Game and Fish Commission could close a state-run shooting range. The sponsor and several supporters, including a Prescott-area doctor, Arizona Citizens Defense League representatives, and Game and Fish staff, argued that closures can push shooters into unsafe public lands, create trash and safety problems, and that the legislature should have a voice in any closure decision. Game and Fish said its goal is to preserve Ben Avery and emphasized public safety. The bill was moved and received a do pass recommendation on an 8-1 vote. The committee then considered House Bill 2417, allowing courts to order speed-inhibiting devices as an alternative to license suspension or revocation for certain traffic offenses. Supporters said it could help people keep working and reduce recidivism, while opponents and some members raised concerns about scope and implementation. An amendment removed eligibility for people convicted of reckless driving or racing and clarified manufacturers are not required to build compatible vehicles. The bill, as amended, passed 7-2. House Bill 2345 followed, creating a felony for unlawfully present persons who possess a falsified commercial driver’s license and authorizing vehicle forfeiture and penalties for employers who knowingly hire such drivers. The sponsor framed it as a narrow public-safety measure, but the Arizona Trucking Association opposed it, arguing it was preempted by federal law, unworkable, and could jeopardize federal funding. Despite those concerns, the committee adopted an amendment and gave the bill a 5-3-1 do pass recommendation. The committee also advanced House Bill 2666, increasing penalties for sexual extortion involving victims ages 15 to 17; testimony from prosecutors and anti-trafficking advocates supported the bill, while defense attorneys and some members urged caution about juvenile defendants and mandatory consecutive sentences. It passed 8-0 with members noting possible future amendments. Finally, the committee approved House Bill 2175, which adds hate-crime-style sentencing enhancements for bias-motivated offenses and expands protected categories to include political expression and political affiliation. The ADL and Maricopa County Attorney’s Office supported the measure as a needed tool, while the ACLU and defense attorneys warned the political-expression language was too broad and could chill speech or invite selective prosecution. The bill passed 6-2 after adoption of an amendment. House Bill 2186, which lets a passenger satisfy identity requirements during a traffic stop by verbally providing information instead of showing physical ID, also received a do pass recommendation on a 7-0-1 vote after the sponsor said it was meant to fix an unconstitutional vagueness problem. The transcript then began discussion of House Bill 2364, concerning penalties for distribution or receipt of abortion-inducing drugs by courier or delivery service, but the exchange was cut off before testimony or action on that bill was completed.

Transcript Highlights:

• And the game of golf is about honesty. It's about integrity.
• This game is a wonderful game.
• It's also a game... ...and that's often the most fastidious and frustrating time.
• It's also a game that teaches a little kid from the barrio that he can be somebody.
• That's what the game of golf teaches you about life. And so thank all of y'all today.

Summary: The Senate opened with a quorum, an invocation, and routine business including dispensing with the previous day’s journal, receiving a House message on HB 104/HJR 34, and a gubernatorial message naming two appointees to the Texas Real Estate Commission. The chamber also adopted several resolutions recognizing Alzheimer’s Advocacy Day, Golf Day in Texas, Cindy Ramos-Davidson, and the 50th anniversary of the Harris-Galveston Subsidence District. Members then adopted memorial resolutions honoring fallen first responders, including Deputy Jesse Ray Perez and Deputy Melissa Pollard, and the Senate agreed to adjourn in their memory. The Senate considered and passed several bills. SB 2199 increased penalties for loading overweight vehicles transporting hazardous materials; SB 1959 adjusted permit factors for the North Texas Groundwater Conservation District; SB 1376 changed supervision rules for code enforcement officer trainees; SB 2595 created a new offense for harassing, intimidating, or threatening someone while concealing identity with a mask or similar headgear; SB 1012 authorized sale or lease of certain surplus state property in Austin; SB 2245 revised bonded title procedures; SB 2605 created a municipal housing authority asset commission; SB 3044 expanded and adjusted the board of the Presidio County Underground Water Conservation District; SB 628 clarified county fire code enforcement authority through interlocal agreements; SB 2778 raised the spending threshold for emergency services district employees; SB 3039 addressed public higher education transfer issues; and SB 2523 allowed release from municipal extraterritorial jurisdiction by petition. Most of these bills were passed to engrossment, the three-day rule was suspended, and final passage was completed, often by wide margins. The chamber also took up SB 1844, which would require cities to provide services before expanding taxing areas into limited-purpose jurisdictions; a floor amendment narrowed the bill, and it was passed to engrossment. SB 2284 clarified municipal and county authority over firearms, airguns, archery equipment, and related items, and was passed despite opposition. SB 2529, dealing with the vote threshold for taxing units to adopt higher tax rates or issue tax bonds, prompted extended debate over voter approval and representative decision-making; after questions, the bill was passed to engrossment and held. At the end of the session, the Senate recessed for 20 minutes and announced it would meet as the Caucus of the Whole.

Transcript Highlights:

• This data will help y'all make these decisions and make them based on science and make them based on
• It is science-based. It is data.
• That's a good science-based place to start.
• , very skilled.
• I just don't want to— That's a skill, very skilled. I know it might be hard in the future, housing.

Summary: The committee took up House Bill 886 by Rep. Orgeron, which would make seasonal catch totals and related reporting for the commercial menhaden fishery publicly available by carving out an exception to confidentiality rules. The author said the bill was intended to align with the original intent of prior reporting legislation and to ensure the public can see how much menhaden is being taken from Louisiana waters. Supporters, including Louisiana Wildlife Federation, CCA, charter captains, and recreational anglers, argued the fishery uses a public resource and that transparency is needed for policymaking. Opponents said they did not object to transparency in principle, but one speaker asked that size-sampling data be removed, arguing it has no scientific value and is already handled through NOAA and Gulf States Marine Fisheries Council processes. The committee reported HB 886 favorably without opposition. The committee then heard House Bill 855, also by Rep. Orgeron, which would establish a 22-foot depth requirement for the commercial use of purse seines in the menhaden fishery. The author said the bill was based on a state-funded bycatch study showing red drum bycatch rises sharply in shallow water and that the current quarter-mile buffer is insufficient, especially in nearshore areas where recreational fishing and sensitive habitats are concentrated. Supporters emphasized the public trust nature of menhaden, the economic value of recreational fishing, and concerns about bycatch, beach fouling, and localized depletion. Several speakers cited the bycatch study, public comments opposing the recent reduction from a half-mile to a quarter-mile buffer, and the belief that deeper-water fishing would reduce impacts on redfish and other species. Department of Wildlife and Fisheries staff and the study’s principal investigator, Dr. Scott Rayburn, answered questions about the current buffer rules, enforcement, and the science behind the 22-foot threshold. They explained that the recent reduction to a quarter-mile buffer came from a commission directive and that the department had investigated complaints but found no violations. Dr. Rayburn said the 22-foot figure came from modeling red drum bycatch as a function of depth and that the study focused on red drum because of its economic and social importance, while not analyzing every species in the same way. Opponents of the bill, including West Bank Fishing and Ocean Harvesters representatives, said the rule of three is a standard confidentiality concept, argued the bill should not be framed as anti-transparency, and urged removal of the size-sampling provisions. The committee heard extensive testimony but no final action on HB 855 was recorded in the excerpt.

Transcript Highlights:

• And the skilled labor is second to none within And the skilled labor is second to none within our union
• use skilled labor.
• We want local skilled craftsmen to be able to live and work in their area.
• We want local skilled craftsmen to be able to live and work in their area.
• I do have some concerns based on what we've heard today.

Bills: S0198, S0422, S1236, S1356, S1456, S1722

Keywords: virtual currency, kiosks, money services business, regulation, financial services, consumer protection, cryptocurrency, registration, ADS-B, automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast, aviation, airports, airport fees, landing fees, departure fees, touch-and-go landing, general aviation, pilot privacy, airspace radius, aircraft tracking

Summary: The committee first postponed SB 1456, then heard SB 1236, which would condition state economic development incentives on employers using secret-ballot union elections and prohibit neutrality agreements. The sponsor argued the bill protects workers from coercion and applies only to companies receiving taxpayer-funded incentives; opponents said it was government interference, likely to hurt contractors, apprenticeships, and business growth, and raised concerns about federal preemption and Attorney General enforcement. After debate, the committee reported SB 1236 favorably on a recorded vote. The committee then considered CS/SB 198, a measure to regulate cryptocurrency kiosks by requiring operator registration, fraud warnings, transaction limits, blockchain analytics, receipts, and refund protections for certain first-time transactions tied to fraud. Supporters from the banking industry, AARP, and others said the bill would help stop scams that are targeting seniors and vulnerable adults; one industry witness supported the bill but suggested narrowing the limits for existing users and shortening the new-customer period. The committee reported the bill favorably. Next, the committee took up CS/SB 1356 on dog breeding, pet sales, and breeder registration. The sponsor said the bill is intended to curb puppy mills, improve animal welfare, and add consumer protections, while an amendment removed state oversight of local animal shelters. Pet store representatives supported much of the bill but objected to the three-day waiting period for financed purchases, expanded reimbursement, and unfair trade practice penalties; others argued the bill would add red tape and litigation. The committee adopted the amendment and then reported the bill favorably. The committee also heard SB 1722 on app stores and minors, which would require age verification, parental consent for minors, app-content disclosures, and enforcement by the Department of Legal Affairs. Supporters said the bill would help parents protect children online; opponents warned it could force collection of sensitive personal data, create privacy and constitutional problems, and duplicate existing parental tools. Members debated the balance between child safety and privacy, and the committee reported the bill favorably. Finally, the committee heard CS/SB 422 on ADS-B aviation data, which would bar use of ADS-B information to calculate certain landing or access fees; an amendment added departures to the restriction. Pilots supported the bill as a safety and privacy measure, while airport representatives opposed it as undermining airport finances and shifting costs. The amendment was adopted, and the hearing on the bill began with testimony from both sides.

Transcript Highlights:

• I have no building skills, but they accept all volunteers, and the opportunity to be able to go in, meet
• symptoms are often overlooked, underdiagnosed, and undertreated because symptoms differ from the male-based
• He played and coached with his father at Glendale College, where they won the Western State Bowl game
• At Glendale College, where they won the Western State Bowl game, Steve's hard work paid off.
• City College, East Los Angeles College, West Los Angeles College, Compton College, and won two bowl games

Summary: The Senate convened with a quorum, offered prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, and then took up several floor items. The main policy item was SR 71 by Senator Arreguín, a resolution recognizing the importance of affordable homeownership in California. Supporters from both parties emphasized homeownership as a path to stability, wealth-building, and neighborhood strength, while noting the state’s high housing costs, racial disparities in ownership, and the role of nonprofit builders such as Habitat for Humanity and state programs like CalHome. The resolution passed 35-0, and Senator Arreguín then introduced Habitat for Humanity advocates visiting for Annual Advocacy Day. The Senate also confirmed three gubernatorial appointments: Trista Gonzalez as Director of the Department of Tax and Fee Administration, Aaron McGuire as executive director of the Board of State and Community Corrections, and Lee Herrick for reappointment as California Poet Laureate. All three confirmations were approved unanimously or near-unanimously. In addition, the body adopted SCR 115 by Senator Daly, recognizing Wear Red Day and February as Heart Health Month, with extensive remarks about women’s heart disease, stroke awareness, and the importance of listening to symptoms; the resolution passed 37-0. The Senate then adopted SR 75 by Senator Rubio, designating CalEITC Awareness Week to promote awareness of the state earned income tax credit, which supporters described as a key anti-poverty tool; it passed 29-0. During privileges of the floor, the Senate welcomed visiting British shadow housing secretary Sir James Cleverly and his wife, Lady Susanna Cleverly, who are in California through a USC Schwarzenegger Institute fellowship studying housing policy. The chamber also heard a committee announcement and a motion to move one file item to the inactive file. The session concluded with adjournment in memory of Frank Gehry, June Roberti, and Stephen Michael Ruda Flores, with members offering tributes to each and the Senate announcing its next meeting date.

Transcript Highlights:

• In addition to the base costs, the council's carrying one exceptional item for increased cost of support
• We'd like to, uh, enhance their knowledge and skills so that they can be more efficient in the agency
• Why across the board as opposed to some kind of more strategic or merit-based initiative?
• It doesn't talk to our licensure database, which is a cloud-based modern.
• Oh no, we're not paper-based. Everything is is online. We were drowned.

Transcript Highlights:

• We have faith-based programming that we do on our facilities with our chaplains.
• We have very, various levels of substance use treatment based on the need of those individuals based
• And based on those programs, uh, we've determined that, uh, upon completion of a program, they have a
• The tiered program is based on individual progress in treatment as well as that client's behavior.
• The remaining four are in year two of two-year base contracts with 31-year options available.

Transcript Highlights:

• I personally know of one gentleman under a bridge who, um, you know, has skills but is very fearful,
• </c><00:10:55.600><c> you</c><00:10:55.760><c> know</c><00:10:55.920><c> has</c><00:10:56.160><c> skills
• </c><00:10:56.480><c> but</c> a bridge who um you know has skills but a bridge who um you know has skills
• again, Hawaii Child Games Action Network speaks.<00:12:08.880><c> Is</c><00:12:09.040><c> there</c><
• on the average. budget information based on the average.

Bills: HB2116, HB1879, HB2214, HB2310, HB2168, HB2427, HB2560, HB1596, HB2197, HB2498, HB2167

Keywords: grants, community engagement, nonprofit organizations, federal assistance, volunteering, youth transit, public transportation, subsidized transit, environment, energy independence, affordable transportation, Hawaii, diaper tax credit, families, low-income, childcare, health, Hawaii Department of Human Services, DHS, emergency appropriation

Summary: The committee heard testimony on several measures related to human services, homelessness, transit, and family supports. HB 2116 HD1, concerning grants from the Office of Community Services to nonprofits providing training and volunteerism opportunities, drew strong support from Catholic Charities Hawaii, Hawaii Children’s Action Network Speaks, and multiple organizations in written testimony. Supporters said the bill would help vulnerable people affected by federal program changes and cuts by connecting them to reintegration and support services. HB 1879 HD1, establishing a subsidized youth transit program coordinated with counties, received extensive testimony in support from the Department of Health, Department of Taxation, Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission, Aloha United Way, Hawaii Bicycling League, Hawaii Appleseed, Hawaii State Youth Commission, Hawaii Public Health Institute, Greenpeace Hawaii, Hawaii Youth Transportation Council, and others. Testifiers emphasized equity, school attendance, reduced transportation costs, climate benefits, and broader access for youth. Several witnesses urged amendments to make the program universal rather than means-tested, and committee discussion noted implementation questions for neighbor islands and rural areas. HB 2214, creating a refundable diaper tax credit for low-income families with children age four and under, was supported by the Hawaii Diaper Bank, Hawaii Children’s Action Network Speaks, and several other organizations. The Department of Taxation recommended making the credit non-refundable and clarifying definitions to aid administration, while supporters argued refundability was important for low-income families who may owe little or no income tax. HB 2310, an emergency appropriation to replenish DHS funds used to provide SNAP benefits during a federal shutdown, also drew broad support from DHS, Catholic Charities, Hawaii Public Health Institute, Hawaii Children’s Action Network Speaks, Hawaii Food Industry Association, Aloha United Way, and others; witnesses praised the state’s rapid response and said the appropriation would prepare DHS for future emergencies. The committee also heard HB 2168 HD1 and HB 2427 HD1 on education for students experiencing homelessness and unaccompanied homeless youth; the Attorney General recommended technical amendments to avoid conflicts with existing law and to clarify McKinney-Vento-related definitions, while advocates stressed the need for school access, transportation, meals, and other supports for homeless and runaway youth.

Transcript Highlights:

• Their fees each year are based on their level of appropriation.
• Their fees each year are based on their level of appropriation.
• But what do the game wardens do, and how does the eliminations affect the percentage of game warden positions
• But what do the game wardens do, and how does the eliminations affect the percentage of game warden positions
• Are all wildlife officers game wardens?

Keywords: 988, house, all