Transcript Highlights:

• c><00:02:05.360><c> Myc><00:02:05.600><c> namec><00:02:05.680><c> isc><00:02:06.960><c> Myc
• c><00:03:40.319><c> Ic><00:03:40.640><c> justc><00:03:40.799><c> hadc><00:03:40.959><c> ac>
• ><00:04:57.440><c> typec><00:04:57.600><c> ofc><00:04:58.080><c> discussionsc> things to exempt
• the type of discussions things to exempt the type of discussions you're<00:04:58.880><c> talkingc>
• We we do not want to criminalize that<00:10:10.080><c> typec><00:10:10.160><c> ofc><00:10:10.320>

Keywords: 958, all

Summary: The House Judiciary Committee met with a quorum and considered four bills. House Bill 4, relating to grooming a minor, was presented as a response to child sexual abuse concerns and would create criminal penalties for adults who groom or solicit minors for sexual conduct. Members raised questions about possible impacts on teachers, youth ministers, nonprofits, and other good-faith communications, as well as concerns about vagueness and age thresholds. The sponsor and supporters said the bill was intended to target predatory conduct while exempting job-related, age-appropriate, and other non-predatory discussions. The committee approved HB 4 favorably by a vote of 14 yes, 0 no, and 5 pass. House Bill 84, dealing with local government liability for riot-related property damage, was described as a clarification of longstanding Kentucky law so it would apply to consolidated and unified local governments such as Louisville. The sponsor said the bill preserves accountability when governments have notice of a riot and fail to act, while opponents questioned whether language about citizens’ aid could encourage vigilante behavior. The sponsor and another member said the bill was not about vigilanteism but about preserving existing rights and ensuring equal protection for property owners across the state. HB 84 passed favorably by a vote of 15 yes, 1 no, and 1 pass. House Bill 188, relating to public safety in jails, would extend peer-support confidentiality protections from police officers to jail employees and add jail and medical staff to third-degree assault protections. The sponsor said the measure was prompted by concerns from Warren County jail leadership and was intended to improve mental and physical safety at no cost to taxpayers. Members voiced support for extending protections to jail and penitentiary staff, and the committee passed HB 188 favorably with 18 yes votes and no opposition. House Bill 143, relating to fiduciary bonds, would allow fiduciary bonds to be notarized instead of attested by the circuit court clerk, a change described as a practical request from clerks and attorneys. It passed unanimously, 18 yes, 0 no, 0 pass, and the committee then adjourned.

Transcript Highlights:

• c><00:02:45.120><c> Umc><00:02:45.599><c> Ic><00:02:45.760><c> hadc><00:02:45.840><c> ac> parents
• ><c> patrol,c><00:03:21.599><c> thosec><00:03:21.760><c> typesc><00:03:22.000><c> ofc> correction
• , state patrol, those types of correction, state patrol, those types of things<00:03:22.720><c> continue
• c><00:03:40.959><c> itc><00:03:41.040><c> wouldc><00:03:41.200><c> bec><00:03:41.280><c> ac
• c> arec><00:04:51.680><c> somec><00:04:51.840><c> ofc><00:04:51.919><c> thec><00:04:52.080><c

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Summary: A state leader briefed reporters on ongoing budget negotiations, saying talks were still active and that he remained optimistic a responsible Minnesota budget could be completed soon. He emphasized the legislature’s narrow margins, the need to finish the remaining bills, and the goal of producing a budget that leaves money on the bottom line, invests in priorities that improve Minnesotans’ lives, and reduces a projected structural imbalance in 2028-29. A major focus was the risk of a government shutdown and the possibility of a special session. He said state agencies, including MMB, had already prepared contingency plans, with essential 24/7 operations such as corrections and state patrol continuing if a shutdown occurred. He noted that if no agreement is reached by Monday, he is contractually obligated to send out more than 28,000 potential layoff notices, which he said would create unnecessary uncertainty and chaos. He said he wanted a one-day special session and that the bills had already gone to revisers, with the remaining work centered on final amendments, votes, and agreement on procedure. When asked about policy sticking points, he declined to go into specifics because the negotiations were fragile, but acknowledged that the talks covered a wide range of issues, including transportation funding, undocumented immigrants, and non-competes. He said the challenge was not one issue alone but the fact that every legislator could effectively become a veto point on the overall deal. He described the process as difficult but collaborative, said the bills were nearly finished and would be posted for public review, and expressed confidence that lawmakers would reach a budget agreement in the next few days.

Transcript Highlights:

• c><00:01:25.840><c> Uhc><00:01:26.159><c> therec><00:01:26.320><c> arec><00:01:26.560><c> 12<
• And there<00:01:48.560><c> arec><00:01:48.799><c> twoc><00:01:48.960><c> typesc><00:01:49.200><
• c> ofc><00:01:49.360><c> projectsc><00:01:49.680><c> thatc><00:01:49.840><c> arec> there are
• two types of projects that are there are two types of projects that are eligible<00:01:50.320><c> for
• c> isc><00:01:57.119><c> toc><00:01:57.920><c> uhc><00:01:58.000><c> helpc><00:01:58.159><c>

Keywords: 1183, house

Transcript Highlights:

• 00:02:10.840><c> ourc><00:02:10.920><c> keikic><00:02:11.800><c> uhc><00:02:11.840><c> ourc>
• c><00:02:12.520><c> bearc><00:02:12.720><c> thec><00:02:12.800><c> greatestc><00:02:13.120><c
• ><c> peoplec><00:02:21.680><c> beforec><00:02:21.960><c> profitc><00:02:22.760><c> uhc> feel
• :00.360><c> addressc><00:03:00.720><c> somec><00:03:00.880><c> ofc><00:03:00.960><c> thesec>
• ><c> thatc><00:03:07.680><c> wec><00:03:07.840><c> havec><00:03:08.000><c> inc><00:03:08.120>

Bills: HB1979

Keywords: environmental review, affordable housing, clean energy, judicial proceedings, public participation, Hawaii Revised Statutes, 912, senate, all

Summary: The committee held an AEN hearing on Friday, March 20, in Room 224 with remote participation streamed live. The first measure, HB 1880 HD3, would prohibit, beginning January 1, 2030, the use or application of pesticides containing 1,3-D (Telone). Supporters, including the Hawaii Public Health Institute and HAPA, argued that 1,3-D is a probable carcinogen, can drift off target, and poses risks to farm workers, nearby families, children, and vulnerable communities, while safer alternatives exist. Opponents, including the Western Plant Health Association and Dole Food, said the product is federally registered and regulated, is needed for pineapple production, and that banning it could threaten jobs, local food production, and the pineapple industry; Dole also noted a petition signed by 95 employees opposing the bill. The chair recorded 73 in support, seven opposed, and two comments for the measure. The committee then took up HB 1931 HD2, which would establish a state noxious weed coordinator, update the process for designating and managing noxious weeds, allow public proposals to change designations, require notice and reporting, classify weeds into three categories, and strengthen enforcement and penalties. Testimony was generally supportive, with DLNR and DAB submitting support and CGAPS backing the bill as a modernization of outdated 1950s-era statutes, arguing that more flexible administrative rules would better address changing agricultural and invasive species conditions. The measure received 38 supportive testimonies, with no opposition or comments recorded. Because the committee did not have quorum, no final decision was made on the measures. The chair announced that decision-making would be rolled to Wednesday, March 25, at 3:05 p.m. in Room 224, and the hearing adjourned.

Transcript Highlights:

• c><00:03:51.040><c> toc><00:03:51.400><c> movec><00:03:51.600><c> onc><00:03:51.720><c> itc
• c><00:03:56.840><c> therec><00:03:56.960><c> reallyc><00:03:57.200><c> isc><00:03:57.360><c> any
• ><c> inc><00:04:12.520><c> thec><00:04:12.640><c> wayc><00:04:12.800><c> thatc><00:04:13.000>
• So, could there be<00:04:20.920><c> somec><00:04:21.160><c> typec><00:04:21.359><c> ofc><00:04:
• c><00:04:22.280><c> Yeah,c><00:04:22.640><c> Ic> be some type of an agreement?

Keywords: 1183, house

Summary: House Republican leaders in Minnesota held a press availability focused on the ongoing absence of Democratic members from the House and the resulting inability to organize the chamber. They said it was day 21 of Democrats not showing up, argued that the situation was harming Minnesotans, and tied the impasse to broader issues including fraud cases, declining reading scores, and challenges facing poultry producers affected by avian flu. Republicans said they were continuing to meet among themselves, with constituents, and with interest groups, but that committee work and public testimony were being delayed by the stalemate. The leaders described negotiations with Democrats as ongoing but said there had been no meaningful movement from the other side. They said they met that morning, planned to meet again later in the afternoon, and hoped for a substantive offer. They also said they were open to discussing common-sense changes, including ways to compel attendance, and noted that recall petitions against absent DFL House members were reportedly being prepared by the state party. One Republican said the party was committed to passing a budget on time but warned that Democrats’ posture could threaten state government later in the year if the dispute continued. A separate issue discussed was a lawsuit over Secretary of State Steve Simon’s refusal to recognize motions made by the smaller number of members present. Republicans said the motion at issue remained on the desk and that the Minnesota Supreme Court was scheduled to hear the case on Thursday. They also discussed the possibility of a special election in House District 40B and said March 17 could be a key date if that election occurs. The group ended by saying they hoped to have more to report at a press conference the next day.

Transcript Highlights:

• ><c> asc><00:01:32.240><c> Ic><00:01:32.479><c> alwaysc><00:01:32.720><c> ask,c> committee.
• ><c> cellc><00:01:34.560><c> phonesc><00:01:35.520><c> uhc><00:01:35.840><c> andc> please silence
• c><00:02:03.840><c> Andc><00:02:04.320><c> uhc><00:02:04.479><c> she'sc><00:02:04.799><c> learning
• c><00:02:06.320><c> knowc><00:02:06.479><c> therec><00:02:06.640><c> werec><00:02:06.719><c>
• ><c> talkc><00:02:08.000><c> aboutc><00:02:08.239><c> inc><00:02:08.399><c> Frankfurt,c> many

Keywords: HB 66 – discussion began at 00:03:37, 958, all

Summary: The House State Government Committee met and established a quorum after opening with the Pledge of Allegiance and introductions of several guests and interns. Representatives introduced their interns and other visitors, who were welcomed by the chair before the committee turned to its only agenda item, House Bill 66, sponsored by Representative Hodgson. The committee adopted a committee substitute for HB 66. Hodgson explained that the bill concerns the use of video meetings by public agencies, boards, and commissions. The substitute would require agencies to post members’ names, term dates, and contact information; allow routine, informational, or advisory meetings to be conducted entirely by video conference to reduce travel costs; require a physical quorum for meetings involving policy, taxation, regulation, or large grants; and require agencies to adopt procedures for remote participation. He emphasized that the bill would not affect legislative committee meetings. Members asked whether the bill would apply to local boards, whether board members are compensated for attendance and travel, and whether it would affect legislative committees. Hodgson said it would apply broadly to public agencies, including local boards such as library boards, but not to legislative committees. He also said compensation for attendance would remain unchanged, while travel expenses would not be paid when no travel occurs. The committee then voted HB 66 favorably with 18 yes votes and one pass, and later adopted a title amendment by voice vote.

Transcript Highlights:

• ><c> thisc> that equal opportunity to receive this that equal opportunity to receive this type<00:11
• :11:01.680><c> toc><00:11:01.920><c> thenc><00:11:02.240><c> stayc><00:11:02.399><c> inc> type
• ><c> enrollmentc><00:33:18.480><c> typec> meets again same dual enrollment type meets again same
• dual enrollment type experience<00:33:19.760><c> withc><00:33:20.000><c> thec><00:33:20.159><c> same
• ><c> studentc> other types of courses that that student other types of courses that that student would

Keywords: 1191, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• c><00:28:46.200><c> panelc><00:28:46.600><c> isc> exact types of issues that that panel is exact
• types of issues that that panel is made<00:28:47.080><c> toc><00:28:47.240><c> dealc><00:28:47.559
• atc><01:32:32.040><c> theyc> the type of thing they look at they the type of thing they look at they
• c><01:38:09.639><c> ofc><01:38:09.920><c> thesec><01:38:10.320><c> typesc><01:38:10.800><c> of
• c> I represent all of these types of I represent all of these types of researchers<01:38:11.920><c>

Keywords: 00:00:00 Call to Order/Roll Call 00:01:19 Discussion of 25RS HB 785 00:30:25 Roll Call Vote on 25RS HB 785 00:32:15 Discussion of 25RS HB 61 00:36:42 Roll Call Vote on 25RS HB 61 00:38:07 Discussion of 25RS HB 788 00:51:01 Discussion of 25RS SB 14 01:11:09 Discussion of 25RS HB 685 01:44:57 Adjournment, 958, all

Summary: The House Standing Committee on Health Services met with a quorum and took up House Bill 785, as amended by a committee substitute that combined language from HB 785 and HB 787. The bill was described as addressing Medicaid managed care organization (MCO) audits, provider contract notice and amendment procedures, mental health parity compliance, and related transparency requirements. Supporters said the measure would tighten notice to providers, limit repeated contract amendments and rate reductions, require more standardized audit procedures, and add reporting on Medicaid claims, appeals, and grievances. It also includes a provision requiring coverage of at least two evaluation-and-management billable services per physician per recipient per date of service, and a section addressing narcotic/opioid treatment program licensing and reimbursement language. Testimony in support came from Representative Kim Moore, John Inman of BrightView Health, Michelle Sandborne of the Children’s Alliance, and Kelly Cormic of RYSE. They argued that MCOs often use audits and recoupments in ways that are burdensome, opaque, and financially damaging to providers, especially smaller and rural ones. They cited examples of multiple audit requests in short timeframes, large record requests with short deadlines, delayed or absent feedback, and recoupments taken before appeals are resolved. They also said parity laws are not being consistently enforced and that the bill would give the Department of Insurance authority to suspend or revoke an MCO certificate of authority for willful or repeated parity violations. Committee members generally expressed support for provider protections and transparency, while asking for clarification on the narcotic treatment and E/M billing provisions. Tom Stevens of the Kentucky Association of Health Plans testified in opposition, saying the bill is complex to implement and should be handled through the broader Medicaid oversight work of House Bill 9, the MOAB. He said the issues raised were better suited for that bipartisan stakeholder process and noted the committee substitute had not yet been fully reviewed by his group. After discussion, the committee adopted the committee substitute and then moved to a vote on the bill; the roll call began, with several members recorded as voting yes, but the transcript cuts off before the final vote result is shown.

Transcript Highlights:

• of one, you<00:41:32.800><c> know,c><00:41:32.960><c> typec><00:41:33.119><c> ofc><00:41:33.280
• c> seec><02:12:11.840><c> ac><02:12:12.079><c> differentc><02:12:12.320><c> typec><02:12:12.560
• ><c> ofc> we're going to see a different type of we're going to see a different type of sign<02:12:
• c><02:15:02.880><c> typec><02:15:03.119><c> ofc><02:15:03.360><c> structuralc> And that in means
• any type of structural And that in means any type of structural change,<02:15:04.639><c> changingc

Keywords: 928, house, all

Summary: The committee first heard Senate Bill 497, a technical correction to last year’s capital budget. Shannon Reid of the Community College System of New Hampshire explained that the bill removes leftover state-agency boilerplate from a repurposed capital appropriation and replaces it with community college language, without changing any dollar amounts. She also described a requested amendment to rename a respiratory therapy renovation appropriation at Nashua Community College as an allied health instructional center, so the space can be used more flexibly for programs such as phlebotomy, radiologic technology, and LNA training. Terry Poff of the General Court then testified on the second part of the bill, which changes legislative space references to support the move of General Court offices from the second floor to the fourth floor of the annex as part of the legislative office building reconfiguration. Members asked whether the community college changes affected funding, and Reid confirmed the amounts do not change and that the bill simply speeds up a correction that otherwise would have been handled later in the lapse process. Poff said the annex space change is part of a permanent transition, though the work cannot proceed until the General Court has legal control of the space. The committee then entered executive session, adopted Amendment 1031H on a 12-0 vote, and voted ought to pass as amended on SB 497 by a 12-0 vote, with several members absent. The bill was placed on the consent calendar. The committee next opened a hearing on Senate Bill 529FN, which would give preference to lumber sourced in the United States on state-funded building projects. Representative Davis, introducing the bill for Senator Roachford, argued that New Hampshire timber is disadvantaged by grading rules that treat U.S. lumber differently from Canadian SPF lumber, even when the wood is from similar species and climates. He said the bill is intended to support New Hampshire’s timber industry and that architects and engineers would still be able to specify stronger materials when needed. Committee members questioned whether the bill should instead refer specifically to New Hampshire lumber, how it would be enforced, and what the cost impact would be. Davis and later witness Mike Olette said the issue is tied to industry grading standards rather than a government code, that the bill is meant to create a preference rather than a mandate, and that price differences are hard to pin down because lumber is a commodity. Olette, who lives near the border, testified that New Hampshire logs are often sent to Canada for milling and then return under a different grade, which he said puts New Hampshire loggers and mills at an economic disadvantage.

Transcript Highlights:

• feasibilityc><00:55:42.480><c> typec><00:55:42.720><c> thingsc><00:55:43.559><c> soc><00:55:
• type things so that Roso project<00:55:45.480><c> Ic><00:55:45.640><c> believec><00:55:46.079><c>
• 01:26:50.800><c> recreationalc><01:26:51.440><c> landc><01:26:51.800><c> typesc><01:26:52.760><
• c> thisc> the dnr's recreational land types this the dnr's recreational land types this report<01:26
• c><01:27:00.800><c> suchc><01:27:00.960><c> asc><01:27:01.159><c> Wildlifec> specific land types

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• >> uh<00:18:59.400><c> inc><00:18:59.560><c> thatc><00:18:59.960><c> typec><00:19:00.320>
• determine how far is too far and and all those<00:50:20.080><c> typesc><00:50:20.440><c> ofc><00
• c><00:50:21.080><c> So,c><00:50:21.800><c> uhc> those types of things.
• typesc><00:59:04.400><c> ofc> these types of these types of um um um bills.<00:59:07.400><c> There
• > thisc><01:18:51.160><c> isc><01:18:51.560><c> thec><01:18:51.720><c> typec><01:18:52.000><c

Keywords: Meeting Start: 00:00:00 Roll Call: 00:00:09 State of the Judiciary: 00:02:33 The Corrections - KCTCS Reentry Program: 00:49:44 Update on 2022 RS SB 90: 01:27:49, 958, all

Summary: The Juvenile Justice Oversight Council met with a quorum, approved the October 8, 2025 minutes, and welcomed guests including Marshall County Attorney Jason Darnall. The main topic was juvenile interrogation, with a presentation from Kentucky Youth Advocates by Courtney Downs and Shannon Moody. They said their organization is supporting a 2026 Blueprint priority requiring children to consult with an attorney before waiving Miranda rights, and they emphasized research on adolescent brain development, susceptibility to peer pressure and impulsive decision-making, and the risk of false confessions. They cited National Registry of Exonerations data showing high rates of false confessions among exonerated youth, especially younger children, and described approaches in other states such as Maryland’s Child Interrogation Protection Act, Indiana’s statute allowing certain adults to waive rights in some circumstances, and laws in other states requiring recording of interrogations or limiting deceptive tactics. Members asked about trauma and adverse childhood experiences, whether the proposal would require attorney consultation in every juvenile interview, whether parents could instead be the ones consulted, and how such a rule would affect law enforcement investigations and juvenile accountability. Senator Carroll and others raised concerns about feasibility, delays, and whether juveniles might avoid accountability if attorneys are required before questioning. The presenters responded that they were focused on ensuring children understand their legal rights, that some states use age- or offense-based limits, and that parent consultation is another model used elsewhere, though they said a lawyer is best suited to explain legal rights and process. Members also discussed the role of the Department of Public Advocacy and whether legislative action or court decisions should address the issue. The council did not take final action on the policy, but requested additional materials, including the text of laws from Maryland, Indiana, and North Carolina, for further review.

Transcript Highlights:

• ><c> thesec><00:24:45.679><c> typesc><00:24:45.880><c> ofc> market today selling um these types
• :27:48.960><c> typec><00:27:49.200><c> ofc> maintenance is to put that type of maintenance is to
• > typesc><00:29:39.039><c> ofc> that there are par particular types of that there are par particular
• types of projects<00:29:39.559><c> thatc><00:29:39.679><c> arec><00:29:39.799><c> morec><00:29
• c><00:46:30.079><c> properc><00:46:30.559><c> typec><00:46:30.760><c> ofc> to to inst install

Keywords: 910, house, all

Summary: The committee first heard House Bill 707, which would create a state income tax deduction for contributions to Hawaii 529 college savings accounts and conform state law to federal changes allowing 529 funds to be used for K-12 expenses. The Department of Taxation said it could administer the bill as written. The Hawaii State Council on Developmental Disabilities supported the measure but asked that ABLE accounts be included and that the program title be changed; the Department of Taxation indicated the title issue could be a problem because the bill’s expanded purpose may not fit the current program name. No vote was taken. The committee then heard House Bill 617, which would fund a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the University of Hawaiʻi Community Colleges. UH Community Colleges supported the bill, and Maui nursing staff testified that faculty recruitment is challenging but manageable, clinical placements are available, and the campus already has a statewide RN-to-BSN pathway; they said the new program would create two tracks, including a four-year BSN option. Members also heard support from several organizations, including the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, nursing groups, and health care associations. No action was taken. Next were several UH-related measures. HB 718 would fund faculty and staff positions at the John A. Burns School of Medicine; the dean and other supporters testified in favor. HB 1279 would create a medical education liaison position tied to Project ECHO; the Attorney General raised constitutional concerns about statewide concern and grant standards, while an individual witness supported the concept but suggested the bill should focus on liaison/support functions rather than program administration. HB 1169 would consolidate conference center revolving funds, and HB 1168 would authorize up to $800 million in UH revenue bonds; UH’s CFO said both were procedural/housekeeping measures and supported them. On HB 1168, members questioned debt service, possible uses, and whether deferred maintenance would be included; the CFO estimated annual debt service could be about $33 million to $41 million at current rates, said likely uses could include student housing and research facilities, and said deferred maintenance was not the current strategy. The CFO also explained that revenue bonds require both legislative authorization and a Board of Regents resolution approving the project and amount. Finally, the committee heard HB 548, which would authorize revenue bonds and appropriations to acquire the St. Francis School campus for UH Mānoa. UH supported the bill but noted the property is privately owned and not known to be for sale. A supporter described the site as a unique 11-acre parcel contiguous to the main campus and urged the committee to seize the opportunity for future generations. No vote or final action was taken on the bills in the transcript.

Transcript Highlights:

• c><00:05:04.960><c> Doc><00:05:05.040><c> Ic><00:05:05.120><c> needc><00:05:05.199><c> toc>
• ,c><00:05:09.919><c> um,c><00:05:10.000><c> Ic><00:05:10.160><c> gotc><00:05:10.320><c> ac>
• <c> typec> one-of-a-kind and once-ina-lifetime type one-of-a-kind and once-ina-lifetime type of<00:
• :36.560><c> havec><00:46:36.800><c> wantedc><00:46:37.119><c> thisc><00:46:37.359><c> typec>
• and its residents have wanted this type and its residents have wanted this type of<00:46:37.839><c> transformational

Bills: HF3700, HF3982, HF3927, HF3933, HF3949, HF4238, HF4275, HF4476, HF4504

Keywords: Duluth, Lake Superior Zoo, capital improvements, funding, bonds, appropriations, capital investment, port development, grant caps, state assistance, navigation facilities, Dakota County, state bonds, park improvements, infrastructure, transportation, safety, congestion, water infrastructure, bond issuance

Transcript Highlights:

• c><00:04:10.239><c> thatc><00:04:10.560><c> thec><00:04:10.799><c> typesc><00:04:11.280><c> and
• not been uh secured at home,<00:47:07.680><c> thosec><00:47:07.920><c> typec><00:47:08.079><c> of
• c><00:47:08.560><c> Andc><00:47:08.720><c> wec><00:47:08.960><c> talkc> home, those type of things
• ><c> somec><01:35:15.520><c> typec> peers, uh there's going to be some type peers, uh there's going
• to be some type of<01:35:15.920><c> differencec><01:35:16.239><c> ofc><01:35:16.480><c> opinion<

Keywords: Call to Order and Roll Call- 00:00:03 Summary of Staff Report on the Firefighter Commission Minimum Training Standards and Administrative Spending- 00:01:00 Staff Update on Child Fatality and Near Fatality External Review Panel 00:16:00 Child Fatality and Near Fatality Review Panel Representatives Available for Questions-00:39:34 Kentucky State Police & Finance Cabinet Status Update on Kentucky Statewide Emergency Responder Voice System-00:52:35 Adjournment-01:46:24, 958, all

Summary: The committee first approved the minutes from December 19 and June 12, then received a staff report on the Kentucky Fire Commission’s minimum training standards and administrative spending. Staff explained that the commission’s current minimum training hours are 115 for volunteer firefighters and 300 for paid firefighters, down from 150 and 400 before January 1, 2023, after the commission removed elective classes not directly tied to NFPA standards. The report found the commission’s certification testing aligns fully with NFPA standards, but recommended that the commission formally promulgate regulations establishing the reduced training hours. On finances, staff said the commission complied with the first statutory cap on administrative reimbursements to KCTCS, but could not verify compliance with a second, more specific cap because the finance system does not break out program-level costs and the statute is vague. Staff recommended the commission work with KCTCS to fix that issue and suggested the General Assembly may wish to clarify the statute. After questions about reimbursement levels and investment income, the committee voted to accept the report. The committee then heard an update on the Kentucky Child Fatality and Near Fatality External Review Panel. Staff reported that the panel has implemented two of three prior recommendations: it revised its agency notification letter to clearly state the 90-day response deadline and added response prompts and checkboxes to improve completeness. The third recommendation, to adopt formal written procedures, remains in progress; staff said the panel plans to develop those procedures alongside its new case management system. The panel is meeting its statutory membership and meeting requirements, but agency responses to its recommendations have been inconsistent: 48% were timely and appropriate in 2022, 36% in 2023, and 82% in 2024, though only three of nine timely 2024 responses were fully complete. Staff also described the new case management system project, funded with $200,000 in one-time money, and recommended the panel consult budget staff about use of those funds beyond fiscal year 2025. They reissued the recommendation that the panel develop written procedures for case review, findings, recommendations, and annual reports. Committee members raised concerns about the lack of penalties for noncompliance, the volume and length of panel meetings, and technology barriers to reviewing cases, and one member said the panel’s findings should inform future legislation.

Transcript Highlights:

• more incentives like parole reform,<00:25:03.679><c> otherc><00:25:03.840><c> typesc><00:25:04.080
• types of reforms to bring reform, other types of reforms to bring people<00:25:05.200><c> home,c><
• we are contracting with and their are we are contracting with and their the<00:33:10.559><c> typec
• c> the type of services that they're the type of services that they're providing.<00:33:12.960><c>
• ><c> timec><00:37:48.240><c> wasc> type of services and transition time was type of services and

Keywords: 910, house, all

Summary: The Committee on Public Safety heard several resolutions, including HCR 944/HR 90 to request a gubernatorial proclamation designating Hawaii as a Purple Heart state on August 7, 2025; HCR 205/HR 197 urging Maui County and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to expedite a permanent replacement for the Kulani Hakoi Bridge; and HCR 164/HR 159 urging counties to maintain an electronically accessible list of hurricane refuge shelters. No one testified on the first two measures. On the hurricane shelter resolution, the Hawaii State Council on Developmental Disabilities supported the intent and requested a wording change from “special needs” to “access and functional needs.” The committee then heard HCR 70, which asks the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation to expand personal and professional development programs to include community service programs. Director Tommy Johnson said DCR supports the intent and described existing community service work lines at Kulani, the women’s correctional facility, and Wawa, including tasks such as pothole repair, tree trimming, and school grounds work. In response to questions, he said participation depends on inmate eligibility, volunteer status, and whether the work would interfere with programming; inmates must have no serious misconducts in the prior year and no escape attempts. He also explained that some work lines are tied to security classifications and facility type. The committee spent the most time on HCR 153/HR 148, which requests DCR to incrementally reduce the number of inmates housed in private out-of-state facilities. The ACLU of Hawaii strongly supported the resolution, arguing that private prisons are unsafe and that Hawaii should bring incarcerated people home. The ACLU cited federal findings and actions against private prison contractors, conditions at the Saguaro facility in Arizona, and the need for in-state rehabilitation and oversight. Director Johnson also supported the measure in principle but said population levels, security classifications, and available in-state facilities limit how quickly people can be returned. He said DCR provides annual reports on inmates eligible to return and suggested more frequent reporting could be considered. Committee members discussed benchmarks, quarterly reporting, parole, and reintegration services, and the ACLU argued that other states have reduced or phased out private prison use through sentencing reform, parole changes, and reintegration programs. No votes or final actions were taken in the portion provided.

Transcript Highlights:

• 01.240><c> skippingc><00:02:01.560><c> aheadc><00:02:01.759><c> ac><00:02:01.799><c> littlec>
• 765c><00:03:20.760><c> andc><00:03:21.080><c> 767c><00:03:22.080><c> withc><00:03:22.239><c>
• c><00:05:02.400><c> Kc><00:05:02.840><c> KRc><00:05:03.440><c> 16730c><00:05:04.440><c> 31c
• ><c> thec><00:40:51.560><c> typec><00:40:51.720><c> ofc> sizes of fees depending on the type of
• sizes of fees depending on the type of credit<00:40:52.040><c> youc><00:40:52.240><c> youc><00:40

Keywords: 958, all

Summary: The committee met with a quorum, approved the minutes, and then reviewed a long agenda of administrative regulations, most of which were advanced with staff-suggested amendments and no objection. Early items included the Kentucky Public Pension Authority’s 105 KAR 1:451, which updates reporting language and adds the contractor wizard for certain employers, and a large package of Board of Veterinary Examiners regulations that revise fees, facility and AHP registration requirements, continuing education, liability, and practice rules. The Board of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology’s compact-related regulation and the Board of Licensed Professional Counselors’ complaint and compact rules were also reviewed and approved with amendments, along with fish and wildlife rules affecting elk hunting, youth deer season length, bear-dog approvals, and foxhound enclosure permits. The committee also approved transportation, education, workplace standards, horse racing, and several health and human services regulations, including Medicaid waiver reimbursement updates and a child care regulation that sends certain large claims to the Office of Inspector General for review. Several agencies briefly explained their regulations when members asked questions. Fish and Wildlife said the elk population is strong and the baiting change is intended to support harvest monitoring and fair chase, while the longer youth deer season was meant to give young hunters more opportunity. The Department of Community-Based Services said the $10,000 and $5,000 claim thresholds were meant to clarify rare cases involving possible fraud or unresolved recoupment issues. The Department of Financial Institutions’ 808 KAR 5:305 drew the most discussion: it would allow certain state-chartered credit unions with a low-income designation to participate in federal programs, including limited non-member deposits and supplemental capital, but the regulation was deferred again amid continued discussions. The Kentucky Bankers Association testified against the credit union regulation, arguing that allowing non-member deposits conflicts with existing statute limiting credit union deposits to members and other credit unions, and that an administrative regulation cannot override that statutory restriction. Committee members heard the agency’s explanation that the proposal is intended to help underserved communities and that the non-member deposit authority would be limited, but no final action was taken because the item was deferred. The meeting otherwise concluded with the remaining regulations being called, discussed briefly, and approved or advanced without objection.

Transcript Highlights:

• c><00:02:46.800><c> Andc><00:02:46.959><c> toc><00:02:47.200><c> putc><00:02:47.360><c> itc
• those individuals, that's basically domestic<00:13:07.760><c> violencec><00:13:08.399><c> typec><
• c><00:13:09.680><c> Isc><00:13:09.839><c> thatc> domestic violence type actions.
• and take that themselves up for that and take that type<00:35:06.000><c> ofc><00:35:06.160><c> class
• ><c> andc> type of class.

Keywords: 958, all

Summary: The Senate Judiciary Committee heard Senate Bill 122, which would allow certain defendants who are caretakers of dependent children to ask a sentencing court to consider parenting classes and family counseling as part of an alternative sentence, alongside existing options like probation and treatment programs. Representative Nick Wilson, the House sponsor, said the bill was aimed at helping families affected by the opioid crisis, especially in Appalachia, and described it as a way to support parents who want to get clean and rebuild family stability. He emphasized that the bill would apply only on a defendant’s motion, would not be automatic, and would exclude violent offenders, domestic violence-related cases, child-victim cases, and cases where probation or similar relief is otherwise prohibited. Committee members raised concerns that the bill could create a two-tiered system of justice or add unnecessary procedure because judges already consider family circumstances through presentence investigations and sentencing discretion. One senator said he would support the bill but worried it privileged defendants with children over those without. Another member argued the bill was unnecessary because judges and prosecutors already have these options available and because it could add another hearing to an already overloaded court system. Supporters responded that the family unit should be given greater weight and that the bill would simply make that consideration more explicit. Judge Julie Ward, joined by Judge Jeremy Maddox, testified against the bill as written. She said judges already receive presentence reports, hear offender statements, and consider caregiving responsibilities, and that family court already addresses children’s needs when custody issues arise. Her main objections were that parenting services are not available in all communities, may cost money, and that the bill would require evidentiary hearings and potentially create equal protection problems by giving preferential treatment to caretakers. She urged the sponsors to work on revised language instead of passing the bill in its current form. Senator Wheeler said he would vote for the bill and noted that a floor amendment would be offered to address access to confidential juvenile “J cases” in presentence reports, since probation and parole do not have that access. He said the amendment was intended to make sure sentencing judges have the information they need. The discussion ended without a final committee vote in the transcript, but the bill remained under consideration with possible amendment and further revision.

Transcript Highlights:

• <c> itc><00:02:13.120><c> wasc><00:02:13.400><c> ac><00:02:14.400><c> uhc><00:02:14.640><c> a
• <00:24:07.120><c> ofc><00:24:07.279><c> thesec><00:24:07.440><c> typesc><00:24:07.720><c> ofc
• ><00:24:07.919><c> materialc> recycling of these types of material recycling of these types of material
• c><00:42:58.720><c> thesec><00:42:59.000><c> typec><00:42:59.160><c> ofc><00:42:59.400><c> policy
• c> State should handle these type of policy State should handle these type of policy issues<00:43:00.599

Keywords: 1183, house

Transcript Highlights:

• would be slower at our ability to get these<00:51:12.600><c> typesc><00:51:12.880><c> ofc><00:51:
• 12.960><c> projectsc><00:51:13.520><c> donec><00:51:14.360><c> becausec> these types of projects
• These are the types<00:51:21.800><c> ofc><00:51:21.920><c> projectsc><00:51:22.400><c> thatc><00
• :51:22.520><c> wec><00:51:22.680><c> havec><00:51:22.960><c> toc><00:51:23.040><c> getc> types
• of you in this corridor um all the types of companies<00:53:10.480><c> thatc><00:53:10.640><c> we<

Keywords: 958, all

Summary: The task force was called to order with a quorum present, and Commissioner Mark Carter of the Kentucky Department of Aviation gave the first presentation. He outlined the state’s airport system, noting 58 public-use airports, the department’s small staff, and its funding structure through a jet fuel tax that generates about $23 million annually, leaving roughly $15 million for airport investment after required deductions. Carter highlighted recent projects at airports including Bardstown, Madisonville, Central Kentucky Regional, Paducah, Sparta, Danville, and Henderson, and said the department has also expanded data collection on airport activity, hangars, schools, and training programs. He emphasized that the department recently completed the first statewide economic impact study of general aviation airports and is developing a five-year airport needs plan. Carter said several things are working well, including stronger communication with airports, the public, the legislature, and especially the FAA’s Memphis district office, which now involves the state more in project selection. He said the department is reasonably staffed overall, but identified workforce development and advanced air mobility as major gaps. In response to questions from Senator Nunn and Representative York, he said he did not have specific workforce shortage numbers on hand, but cited Boeing reports showing large national and global shortages of pilots and mechanics, and explained that instructor shortages and low wages limit training capacity. He also said air traffic control is an FAA function, though EKU has shown interest in developing a training program. Carter identified several needs for improvement: more workforce investment, more aviation education in high schools, more scholarships for pilot and mechanic training, more attention to advanced air mobility, and more frequent, institutionalized data collection. He also pointed to major pending capital needs at airports such as Elizabethtown, Owensboro, Harlan, Leitchfield-Grayson County, and Whitesburg-Letcher County, all of which would require FAA and state support. He urged airports to do a better job marketing their economic value and said the state should continue updating aviation studies so lawmakers have current information for policy decisions. The task force then heard from Lexington Blue Grass Airport Director Eric Frankl, who welcomed the new CVG director and thanked the legislature for creating the task force and supporting aviation infrastructure. Frankl said Blue Grass Airport has rebounded from the pandemic and now exceeds pre-pandemic passenger levels, while serving a mix of private aviation, pilot training, corporate aviation, and commercial airline activity. He described ongoing terminal-area planning, parking technology upgrades, and a major parking lot expansion expected to finish by early spring 2026, and said the airport is planning for future technologies such as vertiports and electric aerial vehicles. Frankl estimated that a broader terminal modernization program will cost roughly $500 million to $700 million over the next 5 to 10 years and said the airport needs continued state support to close funding gaps and remain competitive with other states investing in aviation.

Transcript Highlights:

• c><00:03:06.080><c> Manyc><00:03:06.400><c> hoursc><00:03:06.720><c> arec><00:03:06.959><c> spent
• c><00:03:10.720><c> ac><00:03:10.959><c> notec><00:03:11.200><c> toc><00:03:11.440><c> ourc
• done this very other states have already done this very type<00:07:58.080><c> ofc><00:07:58.360><c>
• ><c> fewc> type of modernization in the last few type of modernization in the last few years<00:08:
• ><c> typesc><00:19:50.240><c> ofc> We have 10 projects on our six-year plan.

Keywords: 958, all

Summary: The Capital Planning Advisory Board met for its first meeting of the year, confirmed a quorum, approved the prior year’s minutes, and welcomed new co-chairs and members. The board reviewed the capital planning timeline and a list of agencies that submitted plans but would not testify. Members were reminded to keep presentations brief because of a packed agenda. The Cabinet for Health and Family Services presented first, outlining priorities centered on public safety, infrastructure preservation, and preventive maintenance. Its requests included a $21 million maintenance pool, phase two funding for a new state public health laboratory, construction of an 18-bed children’s psychiatric hospital, and several projects at Western State Hospital and Western State Nursing Facility, including HVAC work, cooling tower repair or replacement, and chiller plant repiping. Additional projects covered elevator upgrades at Hazlewood and phased cottage renovations at Oakwood. Board members asked about vacant buildings, the cost per bed for the youth psychiatric facility, and the relationship between the CHFS youth facility and a separate DJJ facility; CHFS said the youth facility would serve DCBS-involved youth and be separate from the DJJ project. The Kentucky Department of Education then described its state-operated facilities, including the Kentucky School for the Deaf, the Kentucky School for the Blind, and the FFA leadership training center. Its priorities included additional funding for the FFA classroom and activity building, a rewrite of the SEEK education finance application system, renovation and repair of the FFA swimming pool, electrical upgrades, campus education enhancements, safety and security work, door and window replacements, and HVAC maintenance. Members asked about student outcomes, the size and cost of the swimming pool project, and construction cost assumptions; KDE said it tracks student outcomes through special education staff and that current estimates reflect higher post-COVID construction costs. The Education and Labor Cabinet began its presentation with 12 priority projects, including a state labor exchange system, renovation of the McDow Vocational Rehabilitation Center, and a new adult education and family literacy management information system. The cabinet said the labor exchange would connect job seekers and employers at no cost, while the McDow renovation was needed because the 30-year-old facility faces safety and code concerns. The cabinet planned to continue through the remaining priorities and answer questions at the end of its presentation.