Transcript Highlights:

• This distinguished international service organization has over 1,000 graduate and undergraduate chapters
• In 11,000 graduate, ...has over 1,000 graduate and undergraduate chapters in 11 countries, and its membership
• The Texas chapter of APWA consists of 2,100-plus members across the state of Texas, with nine branches
• the conclusion of the reading and referral of bills on Monday, I move that the Senate adjourn until 11
• Upon the conclusion of the reading and referral of bills, the Senate will stand adjourned until 11 a.m

Bills: SJR36, SB2

Summary: The Senate convened with a quorum, opened with an invocation, dispensed with the reading of the previous day’s journal, and recognized several visiting groups and individuals. Senators Flores, Hinojosa of Hidalgo, and Campbell welcomed members of the Texas Police Chiefs Association, and Senator Nichols introduced Dr. Joshua Splinter as Doctor of the Day. The chamber then adopted several resolutions without objection. Senate Resolution 16 recognized Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, and its South Central Region for Alpha Kappa Alpha Day at the Capitol, with remarks from Senators Miles and West highlighting the organization’s history, service, and Texas members. Senate Resolution 9 designated January 29, 2025, as American Public Works Association Day at the Capitol, and Senate Resolution 10 congratulated Heather Keister for being named Engineer of the Year by the South Plains Chapter of the Texas Society of Professional Engineers. Senator Hinojosa of Nueces also recognized a Brownsville delegation, and additional resolutions, including Senate Resolutions 13 and 18, were adopted without objection. The Senate also approved a motion by Senator Zaffirini to suspend Senate Rule 11.13 so committees could meet during the reading and referral of bills. Announcements followed, including a Finance Committee reconvening at 12:45 p.m. and a Senate Democratic Caucus meeting upon adjournment. The chamber then recessed until 10 a.m. Monday, February 3, for reading and referral of bills, and after that process, adjourned until 11 a.m. Tuesday, February 4.

Transcript Highlights:

• > on<00:11:07.360> next<00:11:07.600> up<00:11:07.800> we<00:11:07.920>
• 11:36.519> who<00:11:36.680> is<00:11:36.800> out<00:11:37.000> of<00:11:
• we<00:11:42.079> have<00:11:42.279> submitted<00:11:42.800> for<00:11:43.120
• 00:11:47.360> any<00:11:48.360> um<00:11:49.760> and<00:11:50.760> we'll<
• c> okay<00:11:53.680> thank<00:11:53.839> you<00:11:54.040> very<00:11:54.200

Keywords: 910, house, all

Summary: The Committee on Water and Land heard testimony on several measures, beginning with HB 347 relating to goats. The Department of Land and Natural Resources offered comments and said its Division of Forestry and Wildlife was available to answer questions. Testimony on the bill was largely opposed, with speakers arguing it would amount to a “free-for-all” rather than game management and urging deferral. DLNR responded that bag limits can be adjusted by area and game management unit under adaptive management rules, and that hunters typically take out their catch. No vote was taken in the portion provided. The committee then took up HB 1278, on which DLNR testified in support. The record in the excerpt does not include discussion of the bill’s substance beyond the department’s support, and no action or vote is shown. A substantial portion of the hearing focused on HB 144, relating to the Mauna Kea Stewardship and Oversight Authority and proposed exemptions from Sunshine Law requirements during the transition period. The authority’s vice chair testified that the body is a startup agency with a complex transition from the University and needs to be able to discuss strategic planning, operational formation, and other day-to-day matters with more than two members present. Opponents, including the Public First Law Center, Hawaiʻi Environmental Alliance, and community members, argued the bill would cut the public out of the deliberative process, allow decisions to be hashed out in private, and set a poor transparency precedent. One testifier also raised cultural and environmental concerns about Mauna Kea. Committee members questioned whether existing law and narrower guardrails could address the authority’s concerns, and the authority said it had already proposed a narrower alternative but the bill returned in similar form. The excerpt ends before any final committee action on HB 144 is shown.

Transcript Highlights:

• An act to amend Chapter 1 of the law to turn 25. Read the last section. Section 2.
• An act to amend the chapter 1625. Read the last section. Section 2.
• An Act to amend the to amend the chapter 1625. Read the last section. Section two.
• I move to adjourn until tomorrow, Thursday, January 29th at 11 a.m.
• On motion, the Senate stands adjourned until Thursday, January 29th at 11 a.m..

Keywords: 993, senate, all

Summary: The Senate convened, approved the prior journal, adopted the resolution calendar, and heard an introduction welcoming the parents of Detective Wenjun Lu, with remarks honoring their family’s sacrifice and service. The chamber then proceeded through a lengthy reading of the calendar and passed a series of bills, most by wide margins, covering topics including social services, labor, insurance, mental hygiene, county law, education, financial services, criminal procedure, executive law, general business law, tax law, and powers and trusts law. Several measures were passed unanimously or with only one or a few dissenting votes, while others drew larger partisan splits. The main floor debate centered on Calendar 44, Assembly Bill 9516, a Correction Law bill expanding the membership of the State Commission of Correction from three to five and adding qualifications for certain appointees, including a former inmate and a health care, legal, or policy professional. Senator Murray argued the bill should require victims’ rights experience and said the criminal justice system should not ignore crime victims; Senator Salazar responded that the commission’s oversight role is focused on correctional facilities and that the bill does not exclude anyone with victims’ experience. Senators Rivera and Martins also explained their votes, with Rivera supporting the bill as part of a more rehabilitative approach and Martins opposing it, citing high recidivism and public safety concerns. After debate, the bill was restored to the non-controversial calendar and passed. The Senate then completed the remaining calendar items and adjourned until Thursday, January 29 at 11 a.m.

Transcript Highlights:

• There being 11 ayes and zero nays. There being 11 ayes and zero nays.
• There being 11 ayes and zero nays, Senate Bill 1998 will be reported favorably.
• I'm speaking on behalf of our 16,000 members and more than 160 local chapters.
• There being 11 ayes and zero nays. Should we talk about it?
• I'm going to be half of our 16,000 members and more than 160 local chapters.

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:

• > any<01:11:07.040> other<01:11:07.360> ism<01:11:07.920> that<01:11:08.239
• <01:11:10.080> and<01:11:10.320> minds.
• Members,<01:11:35.920> please<01:11:36.400> listen<01:11:36.800> to<01:11:37.199
• <01:11:39.760> Those<01:11:40.080> voting<01:11:40.480> yes<01:11:41.600>
• <01:11:45.199> The<01:11:45.520> eyes<01:11:45.920> have<01:11:46.080> it

Keywords: 926, house, all

Summary: The House opened with a devotional for Mental Health Awareness Month, focused on the fragility and renewability of mental health and the importance of human connection, kindness, and reaching out to people who are struggling. The chamber then handled several referral items, including first reading and referral of Senate Bill 329, an act relating to criminal procedures involving firearms, to the Judiciary Committee. It also referred Senate Bills 323 and 326 to the Committee on Appropriations because they carry appropriations, and noted that Senate Bill 278, relating to cannabis and state revenue, had been reported favorably with amendment and was referred to Ways and Means under House Rule 35A. The House took up Joint Senate Resolution 53 on weekend adjournment for May 15, 2026, and adopted it in concurrence by voice vote. The chamber also read House Concurrent Resolution 284 honoring former Senate Majority Leader and Department of State’s Attorneys and Sheriffs’ Executive Director John F. Campbell for his public service, including his work on marriage equality and gun control, and members gave remarks recognizing his leadership, humor, and impact on the institution. Several guests were welcomed and recognized during announcements, including a representative involved in a diaper drive, local officials, and Norma Malone, who was honored for decades of public service in Barry Town and related local boards. The main floor action was on Proposal 4, a proposed constitutional amendment on equality of rights. The Judiciary Committee recommended concurrence, and the member from Burlington explained the amendment’s purpose and process, emphasizing that it would add an equal protection guarantee to the Vermont Constitution covering race, ethnicity, sex, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and national origin, while preserving other constitutional protections. The member also reviewed the proposal’s prior passage in both chambers in the previous biennium and its current path toward appearing on the November 2026 ballot if approved again by the House and Senate. The transcript ends while the House is still hearing extended remarks on Proposal 4, with no final vote on the amendment shown in the excerpt.

Transcript Highlights:

• >> And<00:11:00.160> as<00:11:00.399> in<00:11:00.640> the<00:11:00.800>
• > last<00:11:01.120> case<00:11:01.839> uh<00:11:02.800> when<00:11:03.040><
• 04.320> up,<00:11:04.480> will<00:11:04.720> you<00:11:04.800> let<00:11:
• The<00:11:12.800> next<00:11:13.040> item<00:11:13.440> is<00:11:14.160>
• <00:11:38.240> Um<00:11:39.120> so<00:11:39.440> I<00:11:39.760> will

Keywords: 1189, house, all

Summary: The committee first approved the minutes from its October 3 meeting unanimously. It then reviewed follow-up status on prior performance audits, beginning with the Department of Corrections’ sex offender treatment program. DOC said all audit items from the 2016 review were resolved except one related to tracking benchmarks, progress, and recidivism. Officials explained that a new offender management system, Chorus, was recently implemented but has had rollout problems affecting operations, including restitution checks, and that they hope the system will be stable enough within about six months to begin tracking the needed metrics. Members asked about treatment inside prison and after release; DOC described in-prison treatment, parole aftercare, probation and parole oversight, administrative restrictions, and reassessment if conditions are not met. The committee next heard from OPLC on the Real Estate Commission audit. OPLC reported that all but one finding is substantially or fully resolved, with the remaining issue involving review of applicants’ adverse financial history and liabilities. The delay is tied to ongoing rulemaking, and OPLC said the commission is amending its criteria and integrating universal application procedures into board rules. The office estimated substantive completion by March 2027, with rule filing expected sooner. The committee then took up the Board of Pharmacy audit, where OPLC said most findings remain partially resolved because the board is in the middle of a major rule overhaul and a new licensing software project. Officials described a shift toward a compliance bureau and more routine, risk-informed inspections, rather than inspections driven only by complaints, and said updated manuals and forms will follow the new rules and technology. Finally, the Legislative Budget Assistant reported on ongoing audits. For special education, staff said they are writing the report, have 25 completed observations, and have expanded to 70 identified observations, with a full draft expected in the first quarter of 2026 and a final report by summer 2026. For education freedom accounts, 40 observations have been identified, 15 finalized, and a draft is expected by midspring with a fiscal committee presentation in summer. For the Doorway program, the audit plan was finalized with DHHS help, financial activity was isolated, fieldwork is expected to finish by Thanksgiving, and a draft report is planned for January or February 2026, with a final report by March or April 2026. The committee discussed scheduling its next meeting for February 6 at 10 a.m. and emphasized the value of follow-up on older audits; the meeting adjourned after members agreed the follow-up process should continue.

Transcript Highlights:

• > know<00:11:16.760> one<00:11:16.959> that<00:11:17.160> refuses<00:11:17.680
• > and<00:11:19.440> Bully<00:11:19.880> children<00:11:20.399> who<00:11:
• peers<00:11:25.720> this<00:11:26.000> de11<00:11:26.920> reflects<00:11:27.440
• > vote<00:11:55.920> Yes<00:11:56.639> on<00:11:56.880> this<00:11:57.160>
• > this<01:11:44.560> is<01:11:44.679> a<01:11:44.920> common<01:11:45.320

Keywords: 1183, house

Transcript Highlights:

• :03.200> would<00:11:03.440> be<00:11:04.440> um<00:11:05.000> the<00:11:
• c><00:11:07.720> come<00:11:07.880> up<00:11:08.040> with<00:11:08.120> a
• c><00:11:09.040> that<00:11:09.240> has<00:11:09.480> basis<00:11:09.839> and
• other statutes<00:11:11.720> and<00:11:12.440> um<00:11:13.440> U<00:11:13.680>
• to<00:11:13.920> get<00:11:14.480> as<00:11:14.680> close<00:11:14.920><

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• House Bill 2192, enacting Title 23, Chapter 2, relating to employment.
• House bill 2192, enact amending 10.0.23, Chapter 2, 2, relating to employment.
• House Bill 2999, enacting Sections 49-4603.11, 49-511, and 11-11-11, relating to special taxing districts
• Amending Title 41, Chapter 21, Article 1, Section 41-105, relating to state...
• Enactment section 946005-949-19-15-9-11-11-1-a-1-a-vice to line to head to development fees.

Keywords: 1182, all

Summary: The Senate convened with prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, established a quorum, approved the prior journal, and moved through several Committee of the Whole calendars. On Calendar 1, HB 2192 (employment/video content matters of public concern) was amended and given a do pass recommendation. HB 2592 (government information technology) was amended to remove legislative approval of certain emergency or temporary AI-related rules and received a do pass recommendation. HB 2752 (Commerce Authority trade office) received a do pass recommendation after a Mesnard amendment and an Epstein amendment was debated; the Epstein amendment failed on division, and the bill was retained on the calendar. HB 2916 (traffic schools and instructors fingerprint clearance) was amended to allow work to begin while fingerprint clearance is pending and received a do pass recommendation. HB 2946 (development fees) was amended to address municipal distinctions based on dwelling size/bedrooms and received a do pass recommendation. The Committee of the Whole report was adopted. On Calendar 2, HB 2918, HB 2999, HB 1418, and HCR 2059 were considered. HB 2999 (special taxing districts/infrastructure finance districts) drew the most discussion; a Mesnard floor amendment made several changes to tax-rate, bond, and infrastructure provisions, and the bill was ultimately amended and given a do pass recommendation. HB 1418 (sheriff auxiliary authority) and HCR 2059 (county services) also received do pass recommendations. The Committee of the Whole report was adopted. On Calendar 3, HB 2035 (DCS kinship care placement requirements) was amended to change a reporting deadline and received a do pass recommendation. HB 241 (child neglect financial resources exception), HB 2594 (child confidentiality), and HB 2932 (groundwater transportation fee/withdrawal-related provisions) were also considered; HB 2594 and HB 2932 were amended and received do pass recommendations. The Committee of the Whole report was adopted. On Calendar 4, HB 2109 (portable wireless communication devices/distracted driving penalties for motorcycles), HB 2118 (mobile food vendors’ licenses), HB 2244 (eviction satisfaction of judgment), and HB 4011 (HOA duties) were all advanced, with committee or floor amendments adopted where offered, and the report was adopted. The Senate also took up an additional Committee of the Whole for HB 2440 (transition program), adopted a technical floor amendment, and advanced the bill. Later, the chamber adopted a proclamation recognizing Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University on its centennial and welcomed guests from the university. The Senate received a House request to return SB 1113 for further amendment and appointed free conference committees for HB 2133 and HB 2010. On third reading, HB 2592 passed 16-9-1, HB 2916 passed 26-1-3, HB 2946 passed 27-0-3, and HB 2999 passed 21-6-3, with Senator Epstein explaining her no vote on HB 2999 due to concerns about homeowner cost uncertainty. The Senate then adjourned until April 15, 2026.

Transcript Highlights:

• Sections 8, 10, 11, and 12 are from the governor's fraud package.
• :00.880> on<00:11:01.120> themselves<00:11:01.760> in<00:11:02.000> every
• <00:11:02.320> scenario.
• So,<00:11:03.279> maybe<00:11:03.519> we<00:11:03.680> can<00:11:03.839> talk
• <00:11:04.000> offline<00:11:04.399> and<00:11:04.640> see<00:11:04.720>

Keywords: 919, house, all

Summary: The committee heard House File 2260, a Judiciary Committee clone of portions of the larger DHS policy bill, and adopted the A1 amendment, which was described as largely technical but also incorporating changes from the related human services bill. The bill was presented as covering several DHS-related policy areas, including background studies transparency, anti-kickback provisions for medical assistance and child care assistance, and personal data protections for human services judges. The amendment also added a number of provisions related to direct care and treatment, competency restoration billing and data sharing, fraud enforcement tools, behavioral health fund eligibility, and clarifications to prior law. Testimony from DHS Office of Inspector General legislative director Ardian Diddy emphasized that the bill would improve transparency in background studies, update investigative and arrest data access, extend a limited set-aside to similar provider types, and correct an effective-date error from last session. He also said the anti-kickback language would mirror federal Medicaid law for medical assistance and create a state-level prohibition for CCAP, giving DHS and law enforcement more tools to investigate fraud and misuse. Additional provisions would add human services judges to existing personal data protections for judicial officials. Diddy also explained amendment sections from the governor’s fraud package, including authority to act against entities convicted of fraud or theft, data-sharing improvements, and a disqualification from management and billing positions. Members raised questions about possible conflicts of interest involving DHS employees with outside LLCs and about the need for stronger safeguards against fraud. The chair and other members referenced recent fraud cases and said the bill would help prevent similar abuses. Christy Grumman of DHS testified on the judge privacy section, saying there are about 35 human services judges and describing a recent incident in which a judge received violent threats serious enough to require the family’s temporary relocation by the State Patrol. Representative Hudson supported the anti-kickback provisions as a needed codification of agency authority. The committee then approved the amended bill and recommended it be re-referred to the Committee on Public Safety, Finance, and Policy.

Transcript Highlights:

• <00:11:01.040> Stalker<00:11:01.519> for<00:11:01.680> the<00:11:01.839>
• Yes,<00:11:02.560> we<00:11:02.720> we<00:11:03.040> opted<00:11:03.360> out<
• out on several concerns.<00:11:04.880> I<00:11:05.200> think<00:11:05.279> that
• <00:11:05.440> there<00:11:05.680> were<00:11:05.839> some concerns.
• <00:11:10.160> and<00:11:10.399> the<00:11:10.640> and<00:11:10.880> the<

Keywords: Meeting Start 00:00:04 Roll Call 00:00:23 HB 246 Discussion 00:02:47 HB 246 Vote 00:15:15 HB 613 Discussion 00:17:04 HB 613 Vote 00:29:09 Adjournment 00:30:37, 958, all

Summary: The House Standing Committee on Local Government met with a quorum present and briefly introduced a guest before taking up two bills. House Bill 246, as amended by House Committee Substitute 1, would require animal control officers to complete training on recognizing child abuse and neglect. The sponsor and a young advocate testified that animal control officers often encounter warning signs in homes, cited data linking animal abuse and child abuse, and said the training would be free, brief, and housed by Prevent Child Abuse Kentucky. The committee substitute was explained as addressing local government liability concerns by allowing counties to opt out, tying the bill to existing reporting statutes, and clarifying that the training creates no investigative duty. Members asked about whether the training was one-time, how opt-outs would be tracked, and whether the information would be public; the sponsor and witness said participation would be tracked and the training/evaluation would be available through the organization. The committee approved HB 246 with favorable expression to pass on the House floor. The committee then considered House Bill 613, which would give Chapter 75 fire districts a process to seek a tax increase above the current 10-cent cap through public hearings and voter recall, while preserving local control. The sponsor and fire service representatives said the bill responds to modern fire district costs, including higher equipment prices, staffing shortages, declining volunteer numbers, and the shift to all-hazards service. They emphasized that any increase would be subject to notice, public comment, and a voter recall mechanism, and said the cap would remain in place unless the district used the new process. Members questioned the fiscal impact language, the meaning of the cap, and whether the bill effectively removed the cap; the sponsor clarified that the cap stays but districts could go up to two cents above it through the process, with voters able to recall the increase. One member passed on the vote due to concern about the indeterminable fiscal impact, but the committee still reported HB 613 favorably to the House floor. The meeting then adjourned.

Transcript Highlights:

• <00:11:01.959> a<00:11:02.120> lawyer<00:11:02.519> or<00:11:02.720> a
• <00:11:05.920> if<00:11:06.440> out<00:11:06.760> of<00:11:06.959> of<00:
• parent<00:11:07.560> was<00:11:07.800> convicted<00:11:08.320> of<00:11:08.480>
• c><00:11:21.760> see<00:11:22.000> no<00:11:22.200> questions<00:11:22.519> I
• <00:11:33.519> on<00:11:34.519> Senate<00:11:34.880> Bill<00:11:35.079> 278

Keywords: 1191, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• > none<00:11:06.040> we'll<00:11:06.200> be<00:11:06.360> moving<00:11:06.600
• > HB<00:11:07.480> 841<00:11:08.480> relating<00:11:08.800> to<00:11:09.000
• > bill<00:11:38.880> however<00:11:39.680> um<00:11:39.920> I<00:11:40.079
• :11:42.120> may<00:11:42.399> have<00:11:42.720> back<00:11:42.920> to<00
• person<00:11:43.519> assigned<00:11:43.880> to<00:11:44.000> this<00:11:44.560><

Keywords: 910, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• This<00:11:06.320> article<00:11:06.720> also<00:11:07.000> includes<00:11:07.360
• And<00:11:13.600> then<00:11:13.800> also<00:11:14.160> Senate<00:11:14.480>
• Section<00:11:19.680> one<00:11:20.360> is<00:11:20.680> DHS<00:11:21.280> policy
• > care<00:11:26.160> based<00:11:26.560> on<00:11:26.680> a<00:11:26.720>
• Sections<00:11:29.560> two<00:11:29.680> to<00:11:29.800> three<00:11:30.280>

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• It has over 1,000 graduate and undergraduate chapters in 11 countries, and its membership exceeds 360,000
• The Texas chapter of APWA consists of 2,100-plus members across the state of Texas, with nine branches
• By supporting the field of public works, the Texas chapter of APWA has contributed to the vitality and
• the conclusion of the reading and referral of bills on Monday, I move that the Senate adjourn until 11
• Upon the conclusion of the reading and referral of bills, the Senate will stand adjourned until 11 a.m

Summary: The Senate convened with a quorum, opened with prayer, and dispensed with the reading of the previous day’s journal. The chamber then spent much of the session on recognitions, including a visit from the Texas Police Chiefs Association and the introduction of Dr. Joshua Splinter as Doctor of the Day. Senators offered remarks honoring the chiefs’ service and welcoming Dr. Splinter and Dr. Sarah Jethro to the chamber. The Senate adopted Senate Resolution 16, sponsored by Senators Miles, West, Alvarado, and Cook, designating January 29, 2025 as Alpha Kappa Alpha Day at the State Capitol. Senators Miles and West highlighted the sorority’s history, service work, and Texas members, and the resolution was adopted without objection. The chamber also adopted Senate Resolution 9 by Senator Perry recognizing American Public Works Association Day, and Senate Resolution 10 congratulating Heather Keister on being named Engineer of the Year by the South Plains Chapter of the Texas Society of Professional Engineers. Senator Perry emphasized the importance of public works and infrastructure, and praised Keister’s engineering work and contributions to West Texas. The Senate also recognized a Brownsville delegation and celebrated Brownsville Day at the Capitol, with Senator Hinojosa of Nueces speaking about the city’s history and community spirit. Additional resolutions, including Senate Resolution 13 and Senate Resolution 18, were adopted without objection. The chamber then approved a motion to suspend Senate Rule 11.13 so committees could meet during the reading and referral of bills. Announcements followed, including a Finance Committee hearing and a Senate Democratic Caucus meeting, and the Senate recessed until Monday, February 3, for bill reading and referral, then adjourned until Tuesday, February 4.

Transcript Highlights:

• treatment at Grace<00:11:01.279> House<00:11:01.519> and<00:11:01.600> McGee<00
• :11:02.160> House.
• <00:11:03.040> Their Grace House and McGee House.
• <00:34:10.399> is Um and then the new subch chapter is Um and then the new subch chapter is
• <00:43:03.599> 207 amendment in section 26 VSA chapter 207 amendment in section 26 VSA chapter

Keywords: 926, house, all

Summary: The House opened with devotional remarks from Representative Greer focused on perspective, kindness, and the idea that people “earn” respect and love through shared humanity. After that, the chamber suspended rules to introduce 17 House bills by number only, and adopted JRS 3 in concurrence, setting a joint assembly for Tuesday, January 20, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. to receive the governor’s budget message. Several announcements followed, including birthday wishes, a note about the new federal whole milk for schools law, guest introductions, and caucus notices. The House also approved committee transfers for H.393, an act relating to the prohibition of requiring face masks in schools, moving it from Education to Healthcare, and H.334, an act relating to limiting employer restrictions on individuals separating from employment, moving it from General and Housing to Commerce and Economic Development. The chamber then took up H.649 on captive insurance companies. The Commerce and Economic Development Committee explained that the bill, based on Department of Financial Regulation proposals, would prohibit risk retention groups from lending to or investing in members or affiliates, require annual and quarterly filings in NAIC form with a jurat page and actuarial certificate, and create new filing requirements for sponsored captive protected cells. The committee reported unanimous support, and the House amended the bill and ordered third reading. The House next considered S.60, establishing a Farm Security Special Fund. The Agriculture, Food Resiliency, and Forestry Committee and Appropriations described the bill as a response to repeated weather-related losses affecting farms and forestry operations, including flooding, freezes, drought, and other extreme events. The House version adds forestry and changes assistance from grants to payments to make aid faster and less cumbersome. The program would be administered by the Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets, with a review board and payments of up to 50% of uncovered losses, capped at 5% of annual appropriations and $150,000 per application. The committee testimony emphasized the need for a permanent, predictable state relief mechanism, and the bill was advanced with strong support.

Transcript Highlights:

• 00:11:16.880> Alo<00:11:17.320> chair<00:11:17.720> members<00:11:17.959> of<
• c> in<00:11:20.959> strong<00:11:21.079> support<00:11:21.360> of<00:11:21.480
• 11:23.560> uh<00:11:23.720> nonprofits<00:11:24.240> are<00:11:24.440> hugely
• > services<00:11:27.639> and<00:11:27.760> I<00:11:27.839> want<00:11:27.920
• <00:11:29.839> a<00:11:29.920> lot<00:11:30.040> of<00:11:30.240> these

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The committees considered a large number of Senate bills, with many measures advanced either unamended or with technical or substantive amendments. Early action included SB 88 and SB 11 SD1, both passed unamended, and SB 562 SD1 and SB 642 SD1, which were passed with amendments reflecting agency testimony. SB 1133 SD1 was amended to remove duplicative county requirements and clarify tax credit carry-forward eligibility, while SB 1569 SD1 on sports wagering was deferred. Later, SB 933 on nonprofit/federal funding support drew strong testimony from nonprofit and health advocates emphasizing the risk of federal funding freezes and the importance of protecting services such as early learning, domestic violence support, housing, and workforce supports; the committee recommended amendments to define eligible organizations, require reporting, and include the Judiciary. SB 934 and SB 935 were also amended, with SB 934 tying mass transit funding to Honolulu project milestones and SB 935 revising retirement-system language to change “fewer than five years” to “five or more years.” The committees then took up additional measures with targeted amendments. SB 1033 was amended to clarify that the bill applies to legal entities, not individuals, though members noted concerns about closely held family corporations and asked that the issue be reflected in the committee report. SB 1166, SB 1249, and SB 1256 were advanced with amendments or committee-report notes reflecting concerns from the Attorney General, Hawaii Cattlemen’s Council, and Hawaii Farmers Union United, respectively. SB 1432 and SB 137, both relating to electric utilities, were amended to require retention of covered employees after mergers or acquisitions and to direct the PUC to consider whether proposed transactions further state policy goals. SB 157 on antitrust was narrowed to focus on coordinator conduct in rental housing markets, SB 252 on invasive species received a defective effective date, and SB 336 on defense of state employers and employees passed unamended. SB 536 on the Hawaii Community Development Authority was deferred to a later hearing, and SB 1064 on medical cannabis was heavily amended to authorize cultivator licenses with limits on canopy size, license counts, physician fees, and a special-fund appropriation for enforcement. In the Ways and Means portion, the committee passed several bills unamended, including SB 19, SB 124, SB 264, SB 345, SB 422, and SB 741 and SB 747 later in the agenda. SB 361 was amended to remove references to the attorney general and delete an appropriation section, SB 438 was amended to redefine buffer zones and landfill-unit language, and SB 441 and SB 494 were amended to blank appropriations and, in SB 494, assign charter-school audit responsibility to the state auditor. SB 659 was substantially amended to promote local procurement, including county-level geographic preferences and higher thresholds for locally sourced purchases, and SB 732 was amended to adjust film tax credit provisions, including the streaming-platform definition and sunset-related language. SB 819 was amended to replace references to “educators” with “teachers.” Throughout, most measures were adopted without recorded opposition, though several members noted reservations on particular bills.

Transcript Highlights:

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Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

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Bills: HB1924, HB2121, HB1928, HB1979, HB1650, HB1543, HB1981, HB1982

Keywords: mattress recycling, waste management, producer responsibility, environmental health, steafardship program, electronic cigarettes, disposable devices, environmental protection, plastic pollution, lithium batteries, pollution control, public health, deposit beverage container, bottle bill, container deposit law, container redemption, recycling refund, extended producer responsibility, EPR, deposit return system

Summary: The committee heard testimony on several measures related to waste, recycling, and environmental review. On HB 1924, which would establish a mattress stewardship program, the Department of Health said it stood on written testimony and offered comments, while Hawaii Reef and Ocean Coalition and one individual supported the bill and the International Sleep Products Association opposed it. No questions were raised and the committee moved on. A large portion of the hearing focused on HB 2121, which would prohibit the sale of disposable vapes in Hawaii. The Department of Health supported the measure but suggested the bill may be better placed in a different part of state law because the cited waste-management section regulates products after consumption, while still praising the effort to remove disposable vapes from the market and environment. Testimony in strong support came from the Coalition for Tobacco Free Hawaii Youth Council, Hawaii Public Health Institute, Hawaii COPD Coalition, Hawaii Health and Harm Reduction Center, the City and County of Honolulu, and many individuals; supporters emphasized youth vaping, toxic waste, lithium battery fire risks, and environmental harm. There was at least one opposing individual and the International Sleep Products Association was listed in opposition. The committee noted there were many written testimonies and no immediate vote was taken. The committee also heard HB 1928 on the deposit beverage container recycling program. The Department of Health stood on written testimony. The Solid Waste Task Force of Hawaii Environmental Change Agents and Upstream supported the bill but urged amendments to better integrate reuse and reusables, strengthen enforcement, clarify definitions, and protect existing redemption centers. The Hawaii Food Industry Association supported the concept of a backdrop program but preferred strengthening the existing program and raised concerns about undefined fees, existing infrastructure, and future audit costs. The Chamber of Commerce Hawaii supported the bill, and the chair said the measure needs work and that decision-making would occur in a few days. Finally, the committee took up HB 979 on environmental review and HB 1650 on environmental assessments. For HB 979, OPSD offered amendments, HCDA supported the bill but suggested clarifying the affordable-housing definition, Kauai Island Utility Cooperative supported it, and Earthjustice was asked about the court process for environmental challenges; the chair asked about shortening the challenge period and the relationship between environmental court, the intermediate court of appeals, and the Supreme Court. For HB 1650, OPSD and the State Historic Preservation Division stood on written testimony, OHA asked to retain historic sites, and several groups and individuals testified in support or opposition. Opponents argued that removing Wiki special district and historic sites from Chapter 343 trigger language would weaken environmental review and risk impacts to iwi kūpuna and historic resources.

Transcript Highlights:

• We are 19 present, zero absent, 11 excused.
• Please read the first bill: House Bill 208, an act amending title 15, chapter 1 of the Arizona Revised
• House Bill 2857, an act amending Title 41, Chapter 11, Article 1, Arizona Revised Statutes, by adding
• Secretary, the vote is 17 ayes, 11 nays, and 2 not voting.
• House Bill 2075, an act amending Title 15, Chapter 5, Article 1, Arizona Revised Statutes, by adding

Keywords: 1182, all

Summary: The Arizona Senate convened with prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, welcomed guests from the Arizona Psychiatric Society and Brigadier General John Connolly, and adopted a lighthearted April Fool’s proclamation directing the sergeant-at-arms to wear a silk top hat. The chamber also approved a House request to adjourn from April 2 to April 7, and transmitted Senate Bills 1181 and 1473 to the Governor. Later, the Senate observed a moment of silence for Passion Swartz after a personal privilege statement about her disappearance and death, and discussed the need to improve turquoise alert practices. The Senate then considered two Committee of the Whole calendars. On the first, it advanced HB 2120 on property tax exemptions and disability determinations, HB 2174 on insurance modeling/data organizations, HB 2289 on truth-in-taxation bond notices, HB 2861 on marital/postnuptial agreements, and HB 2903 on banks and financial institutions, all receiving do-pass recommendations and later passing the Senate. On the second calendar, it advanced HB 208 on school libraries and professional associations, HB 2040 on public educational institutions and adoption information, HB 2075 on school employee contracts, HB 2203 on Department of Education reporting requirements, HB 2255 on school employee training, HB 2383 on school district leases and housing development, and HB 257 on a special plate tied to the mining museum; all were adopted from committee and passed the Senate, with HB 2255 requiring and receiving a three-quarters vote. Several bills drew floor debate and recorded opposition. Senators argued that HB 2075 unfairly applied transparency rules only to school districts, HB 2174 weakened insurance consumer protections, HB 2289 could bias voters on bond measures, HB 2903 used vague “social credit score” language, HB 2008 attacked school librarians, and HB 2040 imposed adoption messaging in health settings. Despite these objections, the Senate passed each measure by recorded vote, with HB 2223 and HB 2203 passing unanimously or near-unanimously, and the remaining bills passing by varying margins before being transmitted to the House.