Transcript Highlights:

• Treasurer Ellsworth. Mr.
• Treasurer Ellsworth. Mr.
• Kootenai County, Latah County. Smaller cities are getting involved in this.
• Kootenai County, Latah County, Lincoln County, and Twin Falls County. Mr. Scher. Thank you.
• , Latah County, Lincoln County, and Twin Falls County.

Keywords: 989, all

Summary: The committee approved minutes from October 21, 2025, and after discussion and a recorded no vote from Treasurer Ellsworth, also approved the December 19, 2025 minutes. Members then received an America 250 financial update showing commemorative fund balances, grant spending, and remaining unobligated funds, followed by a subcommittee discussion about Jane Palacki’s contract. The committee clarified and then approved a motion to retain her on an as-needed basis at $125 per hour, not to exceed $8,600 per month, to help with approved projects by the committee chairs. Updates were provided on several America 250 initiatives. Secretary McGrane and Treasurer Ellsworth discussed Celebration Fund grants, the Foundations of Freedom Tour, and a proposed July 4th Capitol celebration tied to the Boise parade, with stages, exhibits, vendors, and performances planned around the Capitol grounds and rotunda. Treasurer Ellsworth also reported on ambassador programs, the Liberty Bell, flags, quilts, the Heritage Fountain, and a service challenge, and the committee extended $30,000 in spending authority for ambassador programs. The committee later approved grant disbursements for multiple counties and cities. The Institute for Advancing American Values presented a civics curriculum initiative with the State Board of Education and a public-facing “Reading the Republic” project using founding documents and student video responses. The America 250 State Agency Task Force reported on museum exhibits, an Initial Point event, and the Their Story oral-history effort. National updates covered America’s Field Trip, America Gives, federal merchandise and story-capture efforts, and a national time capsule. Idaho Parks and Recreation described America 250-related events at state parks, the Move 250 challenge, and volunteer tracking, emphasizing that it was using existing resources rather than requesting committee funding. The committee set its next meeting for February 5 and adjourned after noting written testimony from David Johnson.

Transcript Highlights:

• Representative Lupe Diaz, LD 19, Cochise County, Graham County, Greenlee County, part of Pima, and part
• I cover parts of Maricopa County, Yuma County, Pima County, Pinal County, 230 miles of the U.S.
• What this restriction is, is on the next treasurer, not cities or counties. But, Mr.
• What this restriction is on the next treasurer, not cities or counties. But, Mr.
• , Pima County, parts of Maricopa County.

Committee: House House Appropriations Committee of Reference

Summary: The Appropriations Committee met on January 28 and heard several bills, beginning with introductions of members and staff. The committee first considered HB 2056, which would appropriate $100,000 to the Arizona Department of Water Resources for a feasibility study of brackish groundwater desalination sites. Sponsor Rep. Gail Griffin argued the state should explore use of large brackish groundwater reserves amid Colorado River concerns, while one speaker opposed the bill on aquifer-protection grounds. The committee voted 11-6-1 to give HB 2056 a due pass recommendation. The committee then took up HB 2798, as amended, which appropriates $100,000 to the Arizona Geological Survey to compile data on materials relevant to nuclear energy, including thorium and other non-uranium fuels. Rep. Carbone and others framed the bill as an economic development and national security measure, while opponents questioned whether Arizona has meaningful deposits and whether the state should fund the research. The University of Arizona testified that the Geological Survey could do the work. The committee adopted the Livingston amendment and then approved the bill 11-5-1. Next, the committee considered HB 2303, which codifies investment standards for the State Treasurer, emphasizing safety and principal preservation and prohibiting speculative investments and insider misuse. The Treasurer’s Office supported the bill, saying it reflects existing policy and ethics rules, though members asked for clearer definitions of “speculative” and how the bill would interact with other statutes. The committee passed HB 2303 15-0 with two members present and one not voting. HB 2344, which directs the Treasurer to manage the local government investment pool internally and allows a third-party contract only for emergency backup, also passed after questions about local control and whether the bill was necessary; the vote was 12-2-3 with one not voting. The committee later heard HB 2759, a $500,000 appropriation to the Department of Veterans’ Services to partner with an educational institution in Yavapai County for veterans programs. Retired Navy SEAL Chief Richard Rodriguez testified about Embry-Riddle’s veteran population and emergency assistance needs for housing, travel, and equipment, while opponents objected to using state funds for a private institution and argued veterans services should be broader and statewide. The bill received a due pass recommendation 11-6-1. The committee also approved HB 2207, which funds the prison Braille transcription program at $300,000 and was described as a successful rehabilitation and service program, and HB 2224, as amended to $1 million, which funds the Double Up Food Bucks produce incentive program through SNAP; supporters said it helps families, farmers, and local economies, and the committee adopted the amendment and passed the bill.

Transcript Highlights:

• Treasurer Ellsworth? Yes.
• Treasurer Ellsbrose: Representative Bruce: Thank you. Treasurer Ellsbrose: No.
• ...in those counties?
• Thank you, Treasurer Ellsworth. Any questions for Treasurer Ellsworth? Mr.
• I want to make sure we are securing a state treasurer. Treasurer Ellsworth: Mr.

Summary: The committee approved the February 13, 2020 minutes with one correction changing “America 250 subcommittee” to “America 250 Council.” Staff then provided a financial update showing about $66,000 remaining in commemorative funds, over $200,000 in expenditures, and seven celebration grants ready for approval, with additional grants still being scored. Members also discussed an A250 “I Voted” sticker proposal costing $12,992; concerns were raised about whether counties already cover printing costs and whether funds should be reserved for later needs, and the motion ultimately failed on a 3-3 tie vote. Updates followed on the America 250 ambassador and celebration efforts, including school and community events, a growing service challenge nearing 96,900 acts of service, quilt displays, and plans to bring the Liberty Bell replica to counties. The committee heard requests for a steel transport stand not to exceed $18,500 and a custom trailer not to exceed $23,325, with discussion about safety, durability, and possible future use of the trailer. Members also received updates on the Governor’s Task Force and federal partnership activities, including the May 1 Initial Point event, a July 5 “America’s potluck,” museum exhibits, White House-related programs, and a March 30 deadline for the “America’s Field Trip” program. Idaho Department of Lands Director Dustin Miller described a “Liberty Grove” tree-planting project on endowment land, likely at one of several sites between Coeur d’Alene and McCall, to be coordinated with local leaders and timed for spring conditions. The committee then approved grant disbursements for Blaine County and the cities of Dietrich, Grace, Nespers, Orofino, Pierce, and Twin Falls. Members tentatively scheduled the next meeting for Monday, March 23, and adjourned after noting that additional grant applications were still being reviewed.

Transcript Highlights:

• Faulkner County Fair and Livestock is a nonprofit corporation that sponsors the annual Faulkner County
• Okay, continuing on page 15, Columbia County for the year ending December 31, 2024, under the county
• We had a previous treasurer, clerk treasurer, who was there in 2018 and left.
• Next on page 22 is Prairie County.
• The other was County General. With the same type of findings? The other was County General. Okay.

Committee: All LEGISLATIVE JOINT AUDITING-COUNTIES AND MUNICIPALITIES

Keywords: 1204, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Under the county judge, the county paid $9,600 to an employee for floodplain management services using
• This is a repeat finding, and we have the recorder treasurer here to... Recorder treasure.
• Next on page 22 is Prairie County.
• money and use it for county roads.
• You can take county general money and use it for county roads, but you cannot take county road money

Committee: All LEGISLATIVE JOINT AUDITING-COUNTIES AND MUNICIPALITIES

Summary: The committee began with approval of the prior meeting minutes and then received updates on delinquent private water and sewer reports. Staff reported that 19 of 43 original entities for the 2022 reporting year had had turnback reinstated, while 24 remained in escrow; for the 2023 reporting year, 59 of 64 entities had filed, leaving five still outstanding. The committee also heard that Adona had come into substantial compliance with municipal accounting law, and it voted to file that report and discontinue withholding turnback. It then voted to start the 60-day clock and file the report for Gum Springs after hearing repeated findings involving budgeting, disbursements, payroll, and Act 833 funds, with city officials saying they had begun correcting records and were seeking help from the Municipal League and a city attorney. Fargo was deferred because the mayor was absent due to illness. The committee next considered Denning, where staff described repeated and serious accounting problems over 2022-2024, including unauthorized payments, missing documentation, weak payroll controls, and improper handling of funds. The mayor and recorder-treasurer said prior records were disorganized and that they were now working with an attorney, CPA help, and new software; the committee voted to start the 60-day clock and file the report. Green Forest’s report, involving a fixed-asset listing issue after the mayor’s death, was filed. Several private water and sewer reports were either filed or deferred depending on whether responses had been received, and the committee announced its March meeting would be held in Room 149 because of renovations. The committee then reviewed a series of referred reports involving alleged financial irregularities. In Elaine, the fire chief’s questionable purchases were referred and filed. In Strong, staff described undeposited garbage-bag receipts, improper payments for private dumpster service and other expenditures, payroll tax penalties, and deficit fund balances; the mayor said controls had been improved, but the committee deferred the report to March. The Faulkner County Fair Association report found undocumented cash withdrawals, questionable disbursements, and inadequately documented cash payments to a carnival vendor; the committee filed it. Brooklyn’s report involved a fraudulent direct-deposit change, and Mineral Springs’ report involved transfers from the cemetery fund, employee loans, overpayments, and travel reimbursement issues; both were filed. Additional reports included Rondo, where the recorder-treasurer explained missing computers and fuel purchases tied to personal vehicles, and the committee filed the report; Waldo, where the mayor had been overpaid due to extra biweekly payments, which was filed; Columbia County, where a floodplain management contract lacked an authorizing ordinance, which was filed; and several private water-system reports, some filed and others deferred for lack of responses. Carlisle’s report showed large but improving misstatements in financial records, and the committee filed it after hearing that new software and training had reduced prior problems. Caddo Valley’s report prompted a lengthy discussion about CDs and interest recognition; staff explained that principal balances should be reflected as city assets and interest should be recorded when earned or reported by the bank, and the report was filed. Prairie County’s budget overrun and road-fund issues were discussed at length, with the judge explaining equipment and weather-related costs and staff clarifying the distinction between road funds and locally approved sales-tax uses; the report was filed. Finally, the committee deferred a Cross County Rural Water Association matter after learning it had not filed with Legislative Audit since 2002-2003 despite receiving significant state funding, and members expressed concern about the long gap in filings.

Transcript Highlights:

• That's my home county, you know.
• Faulkner County Fair and Livestock is a nonprofit corporation that sponsors the annual Faulkner County
• We have had a previous treasurer, clerk-treasurer, who was there.
• Next on page 22 is Prairie County.
• If county general needs funds to make the year, county road has given sales tax, a part of it or all

Committee: All LEGISLATIVE JOINT AUDITING-COUNTIES AND MUNICIPALITIES

Summary: The committee began with prayer and approval of the January 8 minutes, then received updates on delinquent private water and sewer reports. Staff reported that for the 2022 reports, 19 of 43 entities had had their turnback reinstated, while 24 remained in escrow; for the 2023 reports, 59 of 64 entities had filed, leaving five outstanding. The committee also filed a report on Adona, where staff said the city had made enough progress toward substantial compliance with municipal accounting laws to discontinue withholding turnback, and the committee adopted that recommendation. The bulk of the meeting focused on municipal accounting noncompliance cases. Gum Springs and Denning were presented with extensive repeat findings involving budgets not adopted by ordinance or resolution, missing or incomplete bank reconciliations, inadequate receipts and disbursement records, payroll issues, and improper handling of Act 833 funds or other city money. Both cities’ mayors and recorders-treasurers testified about efforts to correct records, obtain training, and work with the Municipal League; the committee voted to start the 60-day turnback-withholding clock for both and then filed the reports. Fargo was deferred because no city representative was present. Additional reports included Green Forest, Elaine, Strong, Brooklyn, Mineral Springs, Rondo, Waldo, Columbia County, and several private water and sewer entities. Strong drew significant concern over missing garbage-bag revenue, improper fund transfers, and deficit balances; the committee deferred that report to the March meeting. The committee also heard investigative or referred reports on the Faulkner County Fair Association, Brooklyn payroll direct-deposit fraud, and other entities with questionable disbursements or recordkeeping. In several cases, staff recommended filing the reports after responses were received; in others, the committee deferred action when responses were lacking or representatives were absent. The meeting ended with a motion to defer a Cross County Rural Water matter so the entity could appear at the next meeting.

Transcript Highlights:

• Treasurer Ellsworth. Mr.
• Treasurer Ellsworth. Mr.
• Treasurer Ellsworth. Mr.
• , Latah County.
• , Latah County, Lincoln County, and Twin Falls County.

Summary: The committee first approved the October 21, 2025 minutes and then approved the December 19, 2025 minutes after discussing a disputed reference to a motion involving Jane Pradaki’s contract. Members clarified that the prior arrangement had been a six-month contract and that the new intent was to narrow the work to hourly, as-needed support tied to approved projects. After debate over scope, accountability, and whether the work should be competitively bid, the committee adopted a revised motion retaining Pradaki at $125 per hour, not to exceed $8,600 per month, to help with approved projects by the committee chairs. Members then received a financial update on America 250, including the commemorative fund balance and grant program status. Staff reported 74 grant applications, 41 approved to date, 22 under scoring review, and roughly $148,000 remaining in the Celebration Fund after more than $100,000 had been awarded. The committee later approved a slate of grant disbursements to multiple counties and cities, including Bingham, Bonneville, Kootenai, Latah, Lincoln, Twin Falls, and several municipalities. The bulk of the meeting focused on America 250 programming and outreach. Updates covered the Foundations of Freedom Tour, a proposed July 4 celebration at the Capitol and Andrus Park with a parade, stage performances, food vendors, and a rotunda exhibit featuring the Declaration of Independence; the Liberty Bell’s planned return and possible statewide tour; ambassador and service initiatives; and the Institute for Advancing American Values’ civics curriculum and “Reading the Republic” materials. Additional reports highlighted national America 250 efforts, state museum exhibitions, oral history collection, and Idaho Parks and Recreation’s commemorative events and volunteer programs. The committee also extended $30,000 in spending authority for ambassador programs and scheduled its next meeting for the afternoon of February 5, with members emphasizing the need to finalize event planning soon.

Transcript Highlights:

• And this is not to disparage our treasurer or any treasurer in the past, but it occurs to me that an
• And this is not to disparage our treasurer or any treasurer in the past, but it occurs to me that an
• You mentioned treasurer right now.
• So as far as what that assessment is or who validates it, this is geared to be a county-by-county option
• Again, in Oklahoma County, the ADAs are doing this.

Summary: The committee first considered Senate Bill 419, as amended to update the effective date to 2026. The bill would allow the State Treasurer and the Department of Wildlife Conservation/Wildlife Conservation Commission to employ or appoint attorneys, joining other entities already authorized to do so. Supporters argued the treasurer’s office handles highly specialized financial matters and large state assets, and that in-house counsel could provide faster, more specialized advice. Members questioned possible conflicts with the Attorney General’s role, the fiscal impact, and why Wildlife was included; the sponsor said Wildlife’s inclusion was tied to similar specialized needs and indicated willingness to remove it if needed. The bill received a due pass recommendation on a 7-2 vote. The committee then heard Senate Bill 835, also amended to update the effective date to 2026. This measure would require qualifying licensing boards and commissions to submit proposed non-rulemaking actions with anti-competitive implications for review, shifting oversight from the Attorney General to the Secretary of State. The sponsor said the bill was intended to address antitrust concerns raised by the North Carolina dental board case and to provide earlier executive-branch review of potentially anti-competitive board actions. Members raised concerns about whether the Secretary of State should be the arbiter of anti-competitive conduct and whether existing court remedies or current executive-order processes were sufficient. The bill passed on an 8-2 due pass vote. Senate Bill 1618 would require courts to conduct pretrial risk assessments early in criminal cases. The sponsor said the assessments would be one tool judges could use in setting bond and determining release conditions, and that the bill was intended to make the practice available statewide rather than only in some counties. Questions focused on who would validate the assessments, whether counties already could do this, whether it would delay release in smaller counties, and whether it would add costs; the sponsor said counties could tailor the process, that it was already being done in some places, and that the fiscal impact would be minimal. The committee voted 6-4 to report the bill due pass. Finally, the chair presented Senate Bill 262, which had been amended and had its title and enacting clause struck as part of ongoing work. The bill was described as an effort to reduce county jail overcrowding by allowing certain inmates awaiting transfer to the Department of Corrections to be handled differently, with further amendments expected. Members discussed concerns about fairness and the use of factors such as community ties in release decisions, and the sponsor said the measure was still being refined and was intended to solve a practical jail-capacity problem. The committee voted 8-1 to pass the bill out.

Bills: HB1160 , HB1289 , HB1339 , HB1798 , HB1065 , HB1795 , HB2113 , HB2124 , HB2125 , HB2134 , HB2140 , HB2185 , HB2191 , HB2205 , HB2211 , HB2219 , HB2245 , HB2253 , HB2283 , HB2343 , HB2406 , HB2501 , HB2574 , HB1170 , HB1544 , HB1834 , HB2156 , HB2188 , HB2206 , HB2471 , HB2478 , HB2605 , HJM4012 , HB1104 , HB1152 , HB1254 , HB1443 , HB1903 , HB1941 , HB1982 , HB2006 , HB2034 , HB2105 , HB2179 , HB2203 , HB2297 , HB2303 , HB2322 , HB2329 , HB2345 , HB2350 , HB2379 , HB2388 , HB2399 , HB2418 , HB2462 , HB2464 , HB2495 , HB2539 , HB2544 , HB2551 , HB2554 , HB2588 , HB2636 , HB1128 , HB1408 , HB1570 , HB1742 , HB1823 , HB2089 , HB2104 , HB2114 , HB2172 , HB2192 , HB2207 , HB2251 , HB2262 , HB2266 , HB2294 , HB2298 , HB2319 , HB2320 , HB2323 , HB2351 , HB2354 , HB2374 , HB2401 , HB2405 , HB2429 , HB2431 , HB2442 , HB2451 , HB2479 , HB2496 , HB2515 , HB2523 , HB2540 , HB2593 , HB2632 , HB2661 , HB1496 , HB1898 , HB2095 , HB2157 , HB2225 , HB2274 , HB2311 , HB2325 , HB2333 , HB2476 , HB2508 , HB2552

Keywords: design review, local government, land use, zoning, project permits, housing density, middle housing, affordable housing, parking minimums, single-family zoning, infill development, growth management, comprehensive plan, permit streamlining, objective development regulations, architectural review, administrative review, transit-oriented development, accessory dwelling units, ADU

Summary: The House convened with a quorum, recited the Pledge of Allegiance, heard a prayer, and received a Senate message that the Senate had passed second substitute Senate Bill 5061. The chamber then moved through second- and third-reading action on several bills, with debate centered on salmon treaty history, cannabis cooperative rules, inmate commissary and legal financial obligations, collective bargaining protections, and school restraint/isolation policy. Members also took up a bill to adjust Paid Family and Medical Leave funding to address a projected $30 million tax liability, and later reconsidered one education bill after initial passage. House Bill 2554, dealing with repeal of RCW 77.110 and salmon-related history and tribal treaty issues, saw a proposed striking amendment from Representative Walsh that was rejected on a voice vote. The bill then passed 64-28. Engrossed House Bill 1941, authorizing cannabis producer cooperatives, adopted an amendment limiting any one entity to 30% market share in a co-op; a second amendment adding guardrails was rejected. The bill passed 66-27. Substitute House Bill 2539, raising the indigency commissary threshold from $25 to $100 for incarcerated people, passed 57-36 after debate over inmate needs versus victim and child-support concerns. Engrossed Substitute House Bill 2471, a trigger bill creating state collective bargaining protections if the federal NLRB is weakened, adopted an amendment clarifying agricultural coverage and then passed 58-35. The most extensive debate was on Engrossed Substitute House Bill 1795, which would phase out isolation and restrict certain restraint practices in schools. Members adopted amendments adding professional development intent language, expanding reporting to authorized entities and out-of-state placements, and clarifying positive behavior intervention planning; several other amendments on parental consent, property damage, and isolation-room definitions were rejected. Supporters emphasized student safety, trauma reduction, and de-escalation, while opponents argued the bill removed useful tools from educators and was premature without broader training. The bill initially passed 58-36, then the House reconsidered it and passed it again 57-37. Second Substitute House Bill 2345, which reallocated Paid Family and Medical Leave premium shares to avoid a $30 million tax cost, passed unanimously 94-0. The House then recessed for caucus after placing additional bills on the second-reading calendar.

Transcript Highlights:

• Under the recorder-treasurer, and county procedures for municipalities are set forth in Arkansas Code
• It's 78.5 cents in Pulaski County, 5.9 cents in Craighead County, 1.5 cents in Faulkner County, and Benton
• Under the treasurer, county procedures from municipalities are set forth in Arkansas Code Annotated 14
• Under the treasurer, county procedures from municipalities are set forth in Arkansas Code, annotated
• Treasurer. Treasurer. No, recorder. Recorder, not treasurer. Do you have an open statement, mayor?

Committee: All LEGISLATIVE JOINT AUDITING-COUNTIES AND MUNICIPALITIES

Keywords: 1204, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Under the recorder-treasurer and county procedures for municipalities are set forth in Arkansas Code
• Under the recorder-treasurer, and county procedures for municipalities are set forth in Arkansas Code
• Our board is made up of all the mayors in Blaskey County and the county judge.
• It's 78.5 cents in Pulaski County, 5.9 cents in Craighead County, 1.5 cents in Faulkner County, and Benton
• , treasurer, no recorder, recorder, not treasurer.

Committee: All LEGISLATIVE JOINT AUDITING-COUNTIES AND MUNICIPALITIES

Summary: The committee approved the prior minutes and then received a series of audit and compliance updates. Staff reported on delinquent private water and sewer reports, delinquent 2013-2023 water reports, and several municipal accounting code noncompliance cases. Denning and Gum Springs were recommended to be removed from the 60-day clock after staff visits showed improved records, while Fargo, Lead Hill, Almy, Jericho, Haynes, Biggers, Gilmore, and Holly Grove were discussed for repeat findings involving missing audits, poor bookkeeping, unpaid or misapplied street funds, deficit balances, and other accounting deficiencies. Several of these entities were given additional time or had reports filed without objection, while others were deferred for later review. Fargo’s mayor said the town had been understaffed and was working to improve its accounting systems; the committee voted to defer the matter to the August meeting. Lead Hill’s mayor described efforts to complete overdue water audits and improve office procedures, and the committee also postponed action for 60 days. Almy’s mayor and recorder-treasurer were present, and the committee placed the town on the 60-day clock for repeat accounting issues. Biggers and Gilmore both acknowledged long-running audit problems and said they were working with auditors and the IRS; their reports were filed. Holly Grove’s treasurer said she had only recently taken the position, and that report was filed as well. The committee spent considerable time on the street-fund misuse cases for Jericho and Haynes. Jericho was found to have exceeded the statutory threshold tied to fines and costs, with staff noting the town had since become current on its repayment plan; the committee deferred the report to September. Haynes was also behind on its repayment plan for street funds, with staff saying the town had recently made up the shortfall and was current as of the meeting, but the committee still deferred the report to September. Members and staff also discussed how the speed-trap law is applied, whether certain fines and costs count toward the threshold, and the role of the prosecuting attorney in deciding whether to take further action. The committee then reviewed a special report on the Pulaski County Regional Solid Waste Management District, which had six findings involving board approval of payroll and contracts, credit card documentation, vehicle and cell phone use, competitive bidding, electronic funds controls, and unusually high advertising spending. District Director Craig Douglas said the board had delegated some authority, that receipts were missing during a temporary staffing gap, and that advertising was needed to educate the public; he also defended the sale of trailers and other equipment as a way to exit the trailer business. Several members questioned the explanations and the low resale value of equipment, but the committee ultimately deferred the report to September. The meeting also included a recognition of accounting students interning with audit staff and a final set of actions on deferred water and sewer reports: 11 were filed, seven were deferred for lack of proper responses, and a private report on Shannon Hills Water, Sewer, and Fire Department was noted as involving misappropriation by an office manager and inadequate internal controls.

Transcript Highlights:

• Cahoon County, 2004, under the county judge: The county dispersed over $6,500 for meals, gifts, and door
• We have Nevada County, 2004, under the treasurer.
• We have Johnson County, 2024, under the treasurer-tax collector.
• Melanie Coel, Johnson County Treasurer-Tax Collector.
• County, and one in Cross County.

Committee: All LEGISLATIVE JOINT AUDITING-COUNTIES AND MUNICIPALITIES

Summary: The committee approved the February 12 minutes and then received updates on delinquent municipal water and sewer reports, noting substantial progress in bringing cities back into compliance. Several items were deferred at the request of local officials, including Fargo’s municipal accounting code report, Jericho’s misuse of street funds matter, Biggers, Holly Grove, Gilmore, and several private water and sewer reports lacking proper responses. The committee also filed a number of reports with no questions or with resolved findings. A lengthy portion of the meeting focused on repeat audit findings and management responses. The City of Strong’s mayor described corrective steps on undeposited funds, improper use of solid waste funds, unsupported spending, IRS payroll tax issues, accounting controls, restricted fund transfers, and budget overruns; the committee commended the city’s efforts and filed the report. Calhoun County’s report, involving improper county spending for an appreciation banquet and altered receipts in the collector’s office, was also filed after discussion about educating local officials on constitutional spending limits. Other reports filed included Salem, Briarcliffe, Compton Water Association, and Montgomery County Regional Public Water Authority, while several private water reports were deferred or referred to prosecutors and the Attorney General. The committee reviewed a major regional solid waste management districts report, with significant findings for Pulaski County and Faulkner County involving unapproved payroll items, missing documentation, vehicle and cell phone use, lack of competitive bids, and weak internal controls; Benton County had fewer issues, and several districts had no findings. On motion, the Pulaski County report was deferred so district representatives could answer questions. The committee also heard from Nevada County, where unauthorized withdrawals and interlocal landfill agreement problems were discussed; the county judge said the issues were being corrected, and the report was filed. Later, the committee heard from the City of Grubbs about long-standing IRS debt and from Cross County Rural Water System about overdue audit posting and water quality problems; both witnesses described corrective efforts and ongoing funding or infrastructure projects, and the committee filed the reports after extensive discussion.

Transcript Highlights:

• Continuing on page one, we have Izard County, 2024, under the treasurer. Arkansas Code...
• Izard County, 2024, under the treasurer.
• I believe we've had County Treasurer Warren Sanders here today to answer questions. Thank you, sir.
• This is your county treasurer.
• We've worked with our auditors, and I've worked with fellow county treasurers to make sure it was correct

Committee: All LEGISLATIVE JOINT AUDITING-COUNTIES AND MUNICIPALITIES

Summary: The committee first approved a motion by voice vote, then received updates on delinquent private water and sewer reports. For the 2012 reports, staff said five additional 2024 reports had been received since the December meeting, bringing the total to 17 with escrow funds released and 26 still escrowed. For the 2023 delinquent reports, two more had come in, leaving five outstanding; both reports were filed without objection. The committee then focused on Act 709 repayment issues for the town of Daisy. Audit staff said Daisy had made unauthorized payments to a nonprofit and had used restricted street funds for fire-related expenses, and that the town had not yet adopted the required repayment ordinance. Mayor Lisa Cogburn said the council had not approved repayment because members disputed the amount, though she said the town had funds to pay. After discussion about the audit calculations and statutory repayment requirements, the committee adopted a motion requiring 10% repayment of the street fund under the statute and providing that failure to comply would result in withholding turnback funds. The Daisy report was then filed. The committee reviewed numerous additional audit findings from cities, counties, and water departments. Several local officials appeared and described corrective steps, including reconciliation work in Harrison and Carroll County, revenue-code corrections in Izard County, monthly bond-pending reviews in Alexander, fixed-asset documentation and receipt procedures in the town of 56, and bookkeeping/receipt improvements in Ozan and Lee County. Some matters were deferred, including several private water and sewer reports and Green Forest, while others were filed. Reports involving more serious issues were referred to the prosecuting attorney and Attorney General, including Bull Shoals, Lone Oak County, Beaver, Central City, Gravette, Ralston Water Department, Thornton Waterworks, and others. The committee also filed 19 reports with resolved findings and 53 reports with no findings, and adjourned with the next meeting set for February 12, 2026.

Transcript Highlights:

• Continuing on page one, we have Izard County, 2024, under the Treasurer. Arkansas Code...
• Izard County, 2024, under the Treasurer.
• I believe we have County Treasurer Warren Sanders here today to answer questions. Thank you, sir.
• This is your county treasurer.
• We've worked with our auditors, and I've worked with fellow county treasurers to make sure it was correct

Committee: All LEGISLATIVE JOINT AUDITING-COUNTIES AND MUNICIPALITIES

Summary: The committee first heard updates on delinquent private water and sewer reports. For reports due as of December 31, 2012, staff said five additional 2024 reports had been received since the December meeting, bringing the total of released escrow funds to 17 and leaving 26 still escrowed. For reports delinquent as of December 31, 2023, two more reports were received, bringing 59 of the original 64 into compliance and leaving five outstanding. Both update reports were filed without objection. The committee then discussed Act 709 of 2021 and the town of Daisy’s repayment of street turnback funds. Staff said Daisy had made improper payments to a nonprofit, used restricted street funds for fire truck and fire department building costs, and had not adopted the required repayment ordinance or obtained approval for a reduced repayment percentage. Mayor Lisa Cogburn said the city council had not approved repayment because members disputed the amount, though she said the city had funds to pay. After questions from members and staff explaining the audit calculations, the committee adopted a motion requiring Daisy to repay 10% of unrestricted general fund revenues under the statute and to withhold turnback funds if the city fails to comply. The report was then filed. The committee reviewed numerous deferred and current audit findings from cities, counties, and water systems. Several local officials appeared and described corrective steps, including Harrison district court, Carroll County airport, Izard County treasurer, Alexander district court, Town of 56 officials, Bull Shoals, Lone Oak County, Beaver, Central City, Gravette, Ralston Water Department, Thornton Waterworks, Ozan, and Lee County. Findings included missing or inaccurate reconciliations, unsupported credit card charges, payroll and compensation issues, improper use of public funds, missing receipts, and budget overruns. Some matters were referred to the prosecuting attorney and Attorney General, including Bull Shoals and Lone Oak County, while others were filed or deferred as appropriate. The committee also deferred two private water and sewer reports for lack of proper responses, filed 19 reports with resolved findings, and filed 53 reports with no findings. Before adjourning, the committee set its next meeting for February 12, 2026.

Transcript Highlights:

• Cahoon County, 2004, under the county judge, the county dispersed over $6,500 for meals, gifts, and door
• We have Nevada County, 2004, under the treasurer.
• We have Johnson County, 2024, under the treasurer-tax collector.
• Melanie Cal Johnson County Treasurer Collector. On the Treasurer's Commission, I have done that.
• Woodruff County, and one in Cross County.

Committee: All LEGISLATIVE JOINT AUDITING-COUNTIES AND MUNICIPALITIES

Summary: The committee approved the February 12 minutes and received updates on delinquent municipal water and sewer reports for 2022 and 2023, noting continued progress toward compliance and reinstatement of turnback funds for several cities. It also deferred several matters to the June 4 meeting, including Fargo’s municipal accounting noncompliance report, Jericho’s street-fund misuse issue, Biggers and Holly Grove deferred reports, and a group of private water and sewer reports lacking proper responses. Members then heard and filed a detailed report on the City of Strong, which involved repeat findings on undeposited receipts, improper use of solid waste funds, unsupported spending, late payroll tax payments, accounting control problems, and fund balance issues. Mayor Darrell Howell described corrective steps, including new internal controls, outside CPA assistance, repayment of misapplied funds, budget amendments, and efforts to address the findings; the committee commended the city’s efforts and filed the report. The committee also filed reports on Thornton Waterworks, Calhoun County, Salem, Briarcliffe, Compton Water Association, Montgomery County Regional Public Water Authority, Camden, Johnson County, and Sparkman, while deferring several private water reports and other unresolved items. A major portion of the meeting focused on the Pulaski County Regional Solid Waste Management District and other regional solid waste districts. The audit found issues in Pulaski County involving unapproved payroll items, missing credit card documentation, unapproved contracts, vehicle and cell phone documentation problems, lack of competitive bidding, and weak internal controls; members questioned the district’s practices and deferred the report to June while requesting district representatives appear. The committee also reviewed a statewide report on six regional solid waste management districts, with findings in Pulaski, Faulkner, and Benton counties and no findings in three others; that report was likewise deferred for Pulaski County questions. The meeting ended after a lengthy discussion with Cross County Rural Water System about overdue audit posting, water quality problems, grant-funded improvements, board notice practices, and the broader challenges facing rural water systems, after which the committee filed the report and adjourned.

Transcript Highlights:

• Under the recorder-treasurer and county procedures for municipalities are set forth in Arkansas Code
• And the county, does the county cover y'all now? Sometimes you see them come through.
• Our board is made up of all the mayors in Pulaski County and the county judge.
• It’s 78.5 cents in Pulaski County, 5.9 cents in Craighead County, 1.5 cents in Faulkner County, and Benton
• Under the treasurer, county procedures for municipalities are set forth in Arkansas Code Annotated 14

Committee: All LEGISLATIVE JOINT AUDITING-COUNTIES AND MUNICIPALITIES

Summary: The committee approved the prior meeting minutes and then received updates on delinquent water and sewer reports, including seven new reinstatements and a reduction to four remaining delinquent filers. Staff also reported on municipal accounting code noncompliance, removing Denning and Gum Springs from the 60-day clock after improved records were verified, and presenting repeat findings for Fargo, Lead Hill, Alma, Jericho, and Haynes. Members discussed repeated audit problems, the length of time some issues had persisted, and whether towns should be given additional time or face stronger action; motions were made and adopted to place some entities on a 60-day clock or defer action to later meetings. For Fargo and Alma, staff described extensive repeat accounting deficiencies, including missing budgets, bank reconciliations, financial statements, receipts, journals, and supporting documentation. Fargo’s mayor said the town had been understaffed and was beginning to improve its office systems; the committee voted to defer the matter for 60 days and file the report. Alma’s officials said they were trying to correct water audit and accounting issues, and the committee likewise deferred the matter to the August meeting while warning that water-audit delays could jeopardize turnback funds. The committee then reviewed misuse-of-street-funds findings for Jericho and Haynes. Jericho’s police chief and officials explained that traffic fines, drug-related arrests, and other citations had pushed the town over the statutory threshold, while staff clarified that the speed-trap calculation excludes certain add-on fines and is referred to the prosecuting attorney for any action. Haynes officials said repayment problems stemmed from lost revenue and staffing changes, including the loss of the police department, but staff reported the town remained behind on its repayment plan and also owed the IRS. The committee voted to defer the Haynes matter to September and to defer Jericho as well, with members emphasizing the need for consistency and possible broader legislative review of small-town viability. A special report on the Pulaski County Regional Solid Waste Management District drew substantial discussion. Staff cited findings involving board approval of payroll and contracts, credit card documentation, car allowances and personal vehicle use, competitive bidding, and unusually high advertising spending, as well as the sale of trailers and other equipment at low prices. The district director said the board had delegated authority for many expenditures, that personal use was reported for tax purposes, and that advertising was necessary to educate the public about recycling. Members questioned the procurement and disposal decisions and the size of the advertising budget; after discussion, the committee deferred the report to September and asked the director to return. The meeting also included brief deferred reports on Biggers, Gilmore, and Holly Grove, which were filed after local officials described ongoing efforts to resolve long-standing audit and tax issues.

Transcript Highlights:

• And this is not to disparage our treasurer or any treasurer in the past, but it occurs to me that an
• You mentioned the treasurer right now...
• So as far as what that assessment is or who validates it, this is geared to be a county-by-county option
• One more follow-up. ...a county-by-county option for them to determine how they're going to handle.
• They've got a part-time DA, very small county.

Keywords: 914, all

Summary: The committee heard and advanced several bills. Senate Bill 419, as amended to update the effective date to 2026, would allow the state treasurer and the Department of Wildlife Conservation/Wildlife Conservation Commission to employ or appoint attorneys. Supporters said the treasurer’s office handles highly specialized financial matters and needs in-house expertise and faster legal advice; questions focused on possible conflicts with the Attorney General, fiscal impact, and why Wildlife was included. After discussion, the bill was reported due pass by a 7-2 vote. Senate Bill 835, also amended to a 2026 effective date, would require qualifying licensing boards and commissions to submit proposed non-rulemaking actions with anti-competitive implications for review by the Secretary of State. The author said the bill responds to antitrust concerns raised by the North Carolina dental board case and is intended to provide state supervision before boards take potentially anti-competitive action. Members questioned whether existing court remedies and Attorney General oversight were sufficient, and whether a single official should have that authority. The bill passed due pass 8-2. Senate Bill 1618 would require courts to conduct pretrial risk assessments early in criminal cases, with the assessments used as one factor in bail decisions but not as the sole basis for granting or denying bail. The author said the bill is modeled on federal practice and is meant to help judges make fact-based decisions and reduce jail overcrowding, especially in Oklahoma County. Members asked about who validates the assessments, county implementation, and costs; the author said counties could choose their own approach and that the fiscal impact would not be significant. The bill was reported due pass 6-4. The committee also considered Senate Bill 262, which was heavily amended and had both the title and enacting clause struck while members continued working on it. The bill concerns moving certain inmates convicted of nonviolent financial crimes out of county jails and into appropriate intake/transport processes, with the author emphasizing the goal of reducing jail overcrowding and inviting further collaboration on the language. Members raised concerns about fairness and possible unequal application based on community ties, and the bill was reported due pass 8-1 despite being acknowledged as a work in progress.

Transcript Highlights:

• There's 170 cities that are participating, counties, 44 counties, businesses.
• Participating counties, 44 counties, businesses.
• Treasurer Ellsworth. Mr.
• Treasurer Ellsworth. Mr.
• Yes, Treasurer Ellsworth.

Keywords: 989, all

Summary: The America 250 and Idaho Advisory Council approved the April 6 meeting minutes and authorized two additional grant awards for the city of Eden and Elmore County, completing the Celebration Fund grant approvals. Staff reported that the fund now has a remaining balance of about $64,685, with most of the original $250,000 already distributed to local celebrations across the state. The committee also reapproved the treasurer’s $30,000 spending authority. Members received updates on the ambassador program, which now includes nearly 2,000 ambassadors across 170 cities, 44 counties, 50 businesses, 31 schools, and 23 veterans organizations. Treasurer Ellsworth highlighted strong turnout and publicity for recent events statewide, including museum programs, lectures, and community celebrations, and reported progress on the Liberty Bell restoration and carriage project, including a donated truck from Kendall Ford. The council also discussed the upcoming Liberty Grove designation in Payette and the continued display of quilts and other promotional materials. Secretary McGrane gave a detailed logistics update on the July 4 Capitol celebration, noting the event is about 75 days away and will include a veterans pancake breakfast, the Boise parade, a concert, booths, and space for protests at the old Ada County Courthouse. He asked to release previously reserved Capitol dates now that the main event date is set, and members agreed. He also said the committee is seeking private fundraising support through the Community Foundation and a dedicated IdahoA250.com link, with any contracts to be routed through the co-chairs. Andrew Finstuin of Boise State provided an update on the statewide higher-education civics initiative tied to America 250, describing course and program efforts at Idaho’s universities and colleges, including civic dialogue tools, Canvas modules, orientation workshops, patriotic music programs, civics badges, and community reads. Members praised the work as a lasting legacy beyond the 2026 celebration. The committee tentatively scheduled its next meeting for 10 a.m. on the 4th and then adjourned.

Transcript Highlights:

• The district attorney shall represent the local law library, county law library, and any litigation that
• It's going to be through the district attorney's counsel, so that would be then out in the counties,
• The only part that DOC may have in this, if counties have some remote issues, they may make recommendations
• It just requires that the county put signs at either end of the open pastures and has to have cattle

Bills: SB137 , SB504 , SB1213 , SB1216 , SB1221 , SB1224 , SB1232 , SB1238 , SB1255 , SB1256 , SB1258 , SB1264 , SB1266 , SB1325 , SB1441 , SB1448 , SB1450 , SB1460 , SB1496 , SB1543 , SB1589 , SB1597 , SB1621 , SB1655 , SB1679 , SB1687 , SB1716 , SB1730 , SB1733 , SB1769 , SB1921 , SB1932 , SB1936 , SB1980 , SB2011 , SB2030 , SB2084 , SB2112 , SB2170 , SB2182

Committee: House Judiciary and Public Safety Oversight

Keywords: electronic monitoring, Department of Corrections, criminal justice, rehabilitation, public safety, SB504, marriage, child marriage, minor marriage, age of consent, minimum marriage age, underage marriage, teen marriage, parental consent, judicial approval, marriage license, Oklahoma Title 43, family law, juvenile justice, Department of Human Services

Transcript Highlights:

• The district attorney shall represent the local law library, county law library, and any litigation that
• ..through the district attorney's counsel, so that would be then out in the world, or out in the counties
• The only part that DOC may have in this, if counties have some remote issues, they may make recommendations
• This simply allows for the open pasture laws, just requires that the county put signs at either end of

Bills: SB137 , SB504 , SB1213 , SB1216 , SB1221 , SB1224 , SB1232 , SB1238 , SB1255 , SB1256 , SB1258 , SB1264 , SB1266 , SB1325 , SB1441 , SB1448 , SB1450 , SB1460 , SB1496 , SB1543 , SB1589 , SB1597 , SB1621 , SB1655 , SB1679 , SB1687 , SB1716 , SB1730 , SB1733 , SB1769 , SB1921 , SB1932 , SB1936 , SB1980 , SB2011 , SB2030 , SB2084 , SB2112 , SB2170 , SB2182

Committee: House Judiciary and Public Safety Oversight

Keywords: electronic monitoring, Department of Corrections, criminal justice, rehabilitation, public safety, SB504, marriage, child marriage, minor marriage, age of consent, minimum marriage age, underage marriage, teen marriage, parental consent, judicial approval, marriage license, Oklahoma Title 43, family law, juvenile justice, Department of Human Services

Summary: The committee heard a long series of Senate bills covering criminal justice, public safety, family law, and administrative changes. Measures discussed included penalties for impersonating a notary or law enforcement officer, consolidating DUI charges, allowing motor carriers to represent themselves at Corporation Commission hearings, drone trespass penalties over critical infrastructure, expanding protections for contract employees under assault and battery laws, copper theft felony penalties, raising the marriage age to 18 with no exceptions, expanding the definition of great bodily injury for domestic abuse cases, post-adoption contact for services, driver’s license and testing changes, expungement system automation delays, consumer protection clarifications, gambling penalty updates, OSBI authority and fee changes, gift card protections, medical parole eligibility decisions, firearm transport on boats, caps on wrongful termination settlements at public institutions, GPS monitoring for certain domestic violence defendants, mandatory school reporting of inappropriate employee contact with students, expedited driver’s license delivery and tracking numbers, DOC credit modifications, drug court discretion, repeat peeping Tom and clandestine recording penalties, open pasture signage requirements, supervised visitation after DHS findings of sexual abuse, and victim notification by email from the Pardon and Parole Board. Most bills were presented by members as request or cleanup measures, with brief explanations and limited debate. Several bills drew questions about implementation, due process, costs, and scope, especially the domestic violence GPS monitoring bill and the DOC credit bill. The committee also discussed a bill to lower the age for marriage, which was reported out 10-1, and a domestic violence-related GPS tracking bill that passed 12-0 after questions about monitoring and payment. Another domestic violence bill expanding great bodily injury definitions passed 12-0, and a bill requiring supervised visitation after a DHS sexual abuse finding passed 13-0. Nearly all measures were reported out with unanimous or near-unanimous votes, including multiple 11-0, 12-0, 13-0, and 14-0 recommendations. A few bills had split votes, including the marriage-age bill at 10-1, the gambling penalty bill at 12-1, the OSBI record-check fee bill at 13-0, and the wrongful termination cap bill at 8-5. Several bills were laid over for a later meeting, and the committee adjourned after announcing it would continue work on Thursday.