Transcript Highlights:

• I'm speaking on behalf of the Moms for Liberty Wyoming chapters across the state.
• by<00:32:09.120><c> the</c><00:32:10.159><c> by</c><00:32:10.480><c> Representative</c><00:32:11.039>
• &gt;&gt; Do<00:32:14.159><c> we</c><00:32:14.480><c> have</c><00:32:14.720><c> a</c><00:32:15.039><c>
• &gt;&gt; Representative<00:32:18.080><c> Gugen.</c> &gt;&gt; Representative Gugen.
• Any<00:32:20.240><c> discussion</c><00:32:20.559><c> on</c><00:32:20.720><c> the</c><00:32:20.880><c>

Bills: SF0018, SF0036, SF0047

Keywords: K-12 education, part-time attendance, public schools, student enrollment, education funding, scholarship, Hathaway, academic eligibility, financial aid, Hathaway scholarship, education, state funding, college access, 916, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Um there's a lot<00:32:18.159><c> of</c><00:32:18.240><c> issues</c><00:32:18.480><c> that</c><00:32:
• </c><00:32:24.559><c> wagering,</c><00:32:25.120><c> but</c><00:32:25.679><c> one</c><00:32:25.840><c
• biggest<00:32:26.320><c> problems</c><00:32:26.559><c> that</c><00:32:26.799><c> we</c><00:32:26.960
• ><c> with</c><00:32:37.679><c> a</c><00:32:38.000><c> implemented</c><00:32:38.480><c> tax</c><00:32:
• c><00:32:41.440><c> wagering</c><00:32:42.320><c> could</c><00:32:42.960><c> bring</c><00:32:43.200><

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The joint committees on Transportation and Culture and the Arts and Economic Development and Tourism heard three measures. HB 450, which would transfer the State Foundation on Culture and the Arts to the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism, drew support from DBEDT, the State Foundation, the Hawaii Arts Alliance, DAGs, and individuals. Members asked about the bill’s purpose and the relationship between arts administration and international/cultural considerations. The committees voted to pass HB 450 with amendments, including a housekeeping change allowing specific legislative direction in narrow cases; the measure was adopted with unanimous or near-unanimous votes. HB 437, relating to out-of-state offices, received testimony in support from DBEDT and representatives of the Filipino Chamber of Commerce and another individual. The discussion focused on whether an overseas office in the Philippines was the best use of funds, given existing offices and trade relationships in places like Beijing and Taiwan. Members questioned the return on investment, fiscal priorities, and whether DBEDT had a broader strategic plan for selecting markets. The committees ultimately passed HB 437 with a Senate Draft 1 and technical amendments, with some members voting with reservations. HB 1391, relating to trade and creating a Hawaii-Ireland trade commission, also advanced after a lengthy discussion. DBEDT said it offered comments rather than a firm recommendation and explained that the bill appeared intended to build economic ties with Europe through Ireland, but members questioned why a commission was needed, how it would be structured, and whether similar efforts should focus on other countries. DBEDT said it would provide reports on sister-state relationships and office performance, and noted that trade initiatives would likely require private-sector participation. The committees passed HB 1391 with amendments and reservations from some members.

Transcript Highlights:

• And so,<00:32:00.560><c> we</c><00:32:00.680><c> don't</c><00:32:00.880><c> do</c><00:32:01.000><c> that
• It's sitting<00:32:02.200><c> at</c><00:32:02.280><c> the</c><00:32:02.360><c> table</c><00:32:02.640
• </c><00:32:05.280><c> I</c><00:32:05.320><c> would</c><00:32:05.440><c> like</c><00:32:05.560><c> to<
• </c><00:32:06.280><c> Yeah,</c><00:32:06.440><c> and</c><00:32:06.720><c> you</c><00:32:06.840><c> can
• <00:32:09.680><c> be</c><00:32:09.840><c> able</c><00:32:10.000><c> to</c><00:32:10.120><c> talk</c><

Keywords: Meeting Start 00:00 Call to Order and Roll Call 00:07 Discussion SB 97 01:21 Vote SB 97 13:27 Discussion HB 3 15:12 Vote HB 3 17:15 Discussion HB 184 17:54 Vote HB 184 18:42 Discussion HB 355 19:34 Vote HB 355 39:50, 958, all

Transcript Highlights:

• :32:19.840><c> just</c><00:32:19.960><c> wanted</c><00:32:20.240><c> to</c><00:32:20.519><c> thank</c
• /c><00:32:22.080><c> this</c><00:32:22.240><c> committee</c><00:32:22.519><c> and</c><00:32:22.639><c
• </c><00:32:23.360><c> it</c><00:32:23.840><c> uh</c><00:32:23.960><c> for</c><00:32:24.519><c> writing
• <00:32:46.399><c> next</c><00:32:46.639><c> we</c><00:32:46.840><c> have</c><00:32:47.120><c> pride</
• c><00:32:54.440><c> iatse</c><00:32:55.440><c> local</c><00:32:56.080><c> 665</c><00:32:57.080><c> in

Keywords: 910, house, all

Summary: The committee on Commerce and Consumer Protection met on February 20, 2025, and heard testimony on several measures. HB 850, relating to condominiums, drew support from the Community Associations Institute and the Hawaii State Association of Parliamentarians, who said it would improve owner participation, clarify voting rules, and preserve the use of proxies as a personal choice. A Zoom testifier supported the bill’s intent but warned that special meetings can be abused and suggested further amendments to address board president authority. Members asked about proxies versus electronic voting and whether the bill would reduce proxy use; no vote was taken. The committee also heard HB 48 on coffee labeling, with the Department of Agriculture in support, and HB 1370 on taxation, where a local brewery representative supported equal tax treatment for beer served from 5-gallon kegs and larger kegs when dispensed from a faucet, arguing the bill would clarify draft beer treatment and encourage sustainability. HB 1422 on motor carriers received comments from the Public Utilities Commission and the Department of State Parks, while representatives from a community-based shuttle initiative supported the bill and said nonprofit, community-led transportation solutions should not be regulated like traditional carriers. HB 874, relating to child performers, received support from SAG-AFTRA, IATSE, and individual performers, who emphasized protecting minors’ earnings, safety, and schooling. Testimony also discussed whether to include social media influencers and whether to add annual income limits or trust-account protections; the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations said the issue was outside its wheelhouse. Later, HB 799 on healthcare drew support from health plans and HMSA, with the Department of Health requesting amendments such as a sunset date, a Maui-only pilot, and a report back before changing its position. HB 1379 on health received support from Hawaii Pacific Health, but the Hawaii Medical Board raised concerns about vague language and public-safety implications for internationally trained physicians, asking for more time to study national licensing recommendations. Finally, HB 439 on education was heard, with the Hawaii Teacher Standards Board opposing the bill as drafted and warning about licensing standards and predatory third-party loans affecting J-1 teachers; the transcript ends before any action or vote on these measures.

Transcript Highlights:

• </c><00:32:07.519><c> that</c><00:32:07.760><c> may</c><00:32:07.919><c> be</c><00:32:08.159><c> wish
• or</c><00:32:10.799><c> township</c><00:32:11.279><c> may</c><00:32:11.519><c> wish</c><00:32:11.679>
• :32:13.360><c> not</c><00:32:13.519><c> count</c><00:32:13.760><c> toward</c><00:32:14.000><c> this</
• ><c> uh</c><00:32:15.519><c> but</c><00:32:15.760><c> this</c><00:32:15.919><c> would</c><00:32:16.080
• Uh<00:32:37.039><c> so</c><00:32:37.200><c> this</c><00:32:37.440><c> could</c><00:32:37.519><c> be</

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• In Title 42, Chapter 9 of Idaho Code, there's a chapter 9 entitled...
• Move several substantial and important provisions from Chapter 9 to the new amended sections of Chapters
• 12 and 13 of Title 42, which consolidates chapters and aligns key provisions with appropriate chapter
• subjects and improves chapter organization.
• Number 3... ...Chapter subjects and improves chapter organization.

Keywords: 989, all

Summary: The Senate convened with a quorum, approved the journal, and received committee reports, gubernatorial appointments, and messages from the House. Several bills were advanced or referred to committees, including education, transportation, state affairs, finance, and judiciary. The chamber also heard introductions from visiting student groups and later recessed and reconvened. A number of bills were debated and passed. House Bill 608, on the public school facilities cooperative funding program, was presented as a cleanup and clarification measure to help qualifying districts access revolving grants without unnecessary procedural hurdles; it passed 35-0. Senate Bill 1272, a transportation code cleanup bill, and Senate Bills 1273, 1274, and 1275, all described as DOGE-style cleanup bills removing obsolete public employee retirement and related provisions, also passed unanimously by roll call or consent. Senate Bill 1283, on agricultural products and small-scale direct-to-consumer sales, drew discussion about reduced regulation and food safety; it passed 32-3. The Senate also passed Senate Bill 1325, creating a white specialty license plate with black lettering to raise money for Idaho State Police pay, after debate about trooper retention and the limits of specialty-plate funding. Senate Bill 1319, the “Emergency Affordability Act,” passed 24-11 after extensive debate over freestanding emergency rooms, surprise billing, and whether the bill protected consumers or targeted a single competitor. Senate Bill 1313, expanding voluntary dual licensure for pharmacists as naturopathic doctors, and Senate Bill 1296, creating a criminal trespass provision for churches, both passed. Additional measures passed included Senate Bill 1320 on repealing an obsolete controller fund, Senate Bill 1321 on reporting requirements for agency agreements, Senate Bill 1322 on strengthening voter affidavits when voting without ID, and Senate Bill 1269 on cloud seeding transparency and reporting, which passed 25-9 despite concerns that it added little beyond federal reporting. The Senate then took up Senate Bill 1304 on irrigation conduit right-of-way and maintenance rights, with supporters saying it would clarify ditch owners’ easement rights and reduce delays in water delivery; the debate began but the transcript ends before final action on that bill.

Transcript Highlights:

• The vote count shows 32 in favor with three against.
• In Title 42, Chapter 9 of Idaho Code, Chapter 9 is entitled Distribution of Water, Distribution to Water
• 9 to the new amended sections of Chapters 12 and 13 of Title 42, which consolidates chapters and aligns
• key provisions with appropriate chapter subjects and improves chapter organization.
• Number 3, ...align chapter subjects and improve chapter organization.

Summary: The Senate opened with roll call, prayer, and approval of the journal, then moved quickly through committee reports, gubernatorial appointments, and House messages. Several bills were introduced and referred to committees, and the chamber later recessed and returned with a quorum established. Throughout the day, the Senate also received notices of committee action on additional bills and appointments, including confirmation recommendations for executive appointees and referral of House-passed measures to the appropriate committees. On third reading, the Senate passed House Bill 608, which revises the public school facilities cooperative funding program, after supporters said it clarifies eligibility and repayment rules for districts with failed bonds and under-budget projects. The Senate also passed Senate Bill 1272, a transportation code cleanup bill; Senate Bill 1273 and Senate Bill 1275, both described as DOGE-style cleanup measures removing obsolete veterans and PERSI provisions; Senate Bill 1283, which reduces regulation for small-scale direct-to-consumer agricultural and homemade food sales; and Senate Bill 1325, creating a new white-and-black specialty license plate to raise money for Idaho State Police pay. Most of these passed on voice or roll-call votes with broad support, though SB 1283 drew some concern about the lack of a business-size cap. The chamber also passed Senate Bill 1319, the “Emergency Affordability Act,” which targets out-of-network billing by freestanding emergency rooms and requires disclosure of nonparticipation in TRICARE, Medicare, and Medicaid; debate centered on whether it was a consumer protection measure or an anti-competitive attack on one Idaho facility. Senate Bill 1313 passed to allow pharmacists to seek voluntary dual licensure as naturopathic doctors, and Senate Bill 1296 passed to strengthen criminal trespass penalties for disrupting worship services in churches. Additional cleanup and transparency measures passed, including SB 1320 on the Business Information Infrastructure Fund, SB 1321 on controller reporting compliance, and SB 1322 tightening the voter affidavit process by requiring additional identifying information and county clerk verification when voters lack ID. The Senate also considered Senate Bill 1269 on cloud seeding, which supporters said would add Idaho-specific definitions, reporting, and accountability to an existing program, while opponents argued it mostly duplicated federal reporting and exempted much of the activity from the new rules. Debate on that bill was underway at the end of the transcript, with no final vote shown.

Transcript Highlights:

• In<00:32:02.000><c> addition</c><00:32:02.240><c> to</c><00:32:02.399><c> the</c><00:32:02.640><c> numerous
• This<00:32:53.440><c> package</c><00:32:53.919><c> contains</c><00:32:54.559><c> multiple</c><00:32:55.360
• He<02:32:08.080><c> was</c><02:32:08.160><c> a</c><02:32:08.399><c> devoted</c><02:32:08.800><c> husband
• </c><02:32:10.640><c> to</c><02:32:10.800><c> his</c><02:32:10.960><c> sons</c><02:32:11.280><c> Evan
• Evan and Ben.<02:32:12.720><c> George</c><02:32:13.040><c> is</c><02:32:13.280><c> grateful</c><02:32

Keywords: U.S. House of Representatives Floor Proceedings on Thursday, July 16, 2026, 1012, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• The roll call shows 32 senators present, with three absent excused.
• House Joint Memorial 18, House Concurrent Resolution 32, House Bills 826, 832, 843, and 872 will all
• This chapter shall not create liability for the developer of an AI model for any violation of this chapter
• Siting Act, and revise and move certain provisions from Chapter 58 to Chapter 44, Title 39, Idaho Code
• Siting Act, and revise and move certain provisions from Chapter 58 to Chapter 44, Title 39, Idaho Code

Keywords: 989, all

Summary: The Senate opened with roll call, prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, and approval of the journal. The body then received a series of committee reports and bill referrals, including multiple House bills reported out of committee with do-pass recommendations or sent to other committees, as well as gubernatorial and House messages. Several bills were advanced through first and second reading, and the Senate also noted that it would not take up the 10th order until later. The chamber then considered a long list of measures on third reading. Senate Bill 1227, as amended by the House, relating to education and generative AI, passed after Senator Cook explained that the bill preserves human judgment, local control, and parent transparency while adding House changes to the review committee. House Bill 603, revising Capitol Mall camping rules, passed after debate over balancing free speech with safety and sanitation; opponents warned about overreach, while supporters said the bill clarifies the line between protest and encampment. House Bill 688 on airbag systems, House Bill 645 creating a portable benefits framework for independent contractors, and House Bill 738 allowing LLC organizers to use a commercial registered agent’s address also passed after debate on consumer protection, tax treatment, worker classification, and privacy. Additional bills passed with little or no debate, including House Bill 521 on criminal history background checks for vulnerable populations, House Bill 615 clarifying disturbing-the-peace protections for houses of worship, House Bill 695 correcting a statutory term from possession to restitution, House Bill 568 repealing obsolete Department of Lands provisions, House Bill 774 repealing minimum fines for certain hunting violations, House Bill 762 revising charter school admissions preferences for foster children and military families, House Bill 661 extending county solid-waste disposal contract competition, House Bill 733 updating partnership audit procedures to align with federal tax law, House Bill 749 addressing annexation hardship exceptions and property rights, House Bill 662 expanding milk testing standards and dispute resolution, House Bill 664 removing differential speed limits for heavy trucks, and House Bill 716 revising transportation funding distributions and bridge inspection funding. Several bills were held on the calendar or referred for possible amendment, and the Senate later returned to committee and administrative business, including committee reports, gubernatorial appointments, and moving into the Committee of the Whole on the general calendar.

Transcript Highlights:

• House Bill 2764, an act amending Title 15, Chapter 2, Article 3, Arizona Revised Statutes, Section 15
• House Bill 2764, an act amending Title 15, Chapter 2, Article 3, Arizona Revised Statutes, Section 15
• House Bill 2996, an act amending Title 20, Chapter 2, Article 6, Arizona Revised Statutes, by adding
• House Bill 2996, an act amending Title 20, Chapter 2, Article 6, Arizona Revised Statutes, by adding
• Senate Bill 1168, an act amending Sections 32-1213, 32-1231, 32-1237, Arizona Revised Statutes, relating

Keywords: 1182, all

Transcript Highlights:

• fukunaga<00:32:42.159><c> I</c><00:32:42.360><c> actually</c><00:32:42.760><c> support</c><00:32:43.200
• the longer time<00:32:44.039><c> frame</c><00:32:44.480><c> so</c><00:32:44.880><c> uh</c><00:32:44.960
• ><c> I'm</c><00:32:45.080><c> going</c><00:32:45.200><c> to</c><00:32:45.279><c> be</c><00:32:45.399>
• ><c> discussion</c><00:32:50.559><c> okay</c><00:32:50.760><c> so</c><00:32:51.159><c> noted</c><00:32
• > okay</c><00:32:55.320><c> if</c><00:32:55.480><c> not</c><00:32:55.720><c> Vice</c><00:32:55.880><c

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The Senate Committee on Public Safety and Military Affairs met on its 3:15 p.m. reconsideration and hearing agenda. The committee first reconsidered SB 1379 on emergency preparedness and voted to pass it with amendments. The amendments would require HEMA to submit a report to the Legislature on a community readiness centers plan, including public and private sites, funding sources, partnerships, stakeholder coordination, and projected annual funding, due 20 days before the 2026 Legislature convenes. The committee also made technical and fiscal-related changes, including blanking out certain amounts in the bill and committee report while retaining recommended amounts there, and changing the effective date language. The committee then voted unanimously to adopt the amended recommendation. The committee heard SB 1364, which makes emergency appropriations for law enforcement personnel costs. The Department of Budget and Finance supported the bill but said the figures in oral testimony would be slightly higher than those in written testimony and that updated numbers would be emailed later in the week. Because the exact figures were not yet available, the chair deferred decision-making to February 7, 2025. The committee also heard SB 1451 on critical infrastructure, SB 1452 on the Uniform Controlled Substances Act, SB 1149 on hate crimes reporting, SB 1321 on the Hawaii Correctional System Oversight Commission, and SB 1341 on energy industry information reporting. For SB 1451, testimony was split, with support from state law enforcement and opposition from the Public First Law Center, which argued the information was already protected under existing law; the committee later adopted a motion to pass the bill with amendments, including a narrower definition of critical infrastructure information and a revised effective date. SB 1452 received support from law enforcement and prosecutors, with a requested cleanup amendment to correct a federal drug-name spelling issue; decision-making was postponed to allow the department to provide language. SB 1149 drew substantial testimony both for and against; supporters emphasized better hate-crime data collection and transparency, while opponents raised concerns about definitions and free speech. The committee adopted amendments and passed the bill, with the chair summarizing the move from the older UCR system to NIBRS and noting a public dashboard expected by September 30, 2025. SB 1321 was passed with amendments shortening the oversight coordinator term from four years to three years, though one senator voted with reservations in favor of a longer term. SB 1341 was passed as is after brief support testimony, and the committee adjourned after completing the agenda.

Transcript Highlights:

• </c> chapter 89-9A. chapter 89-9A.
• ><c> Kalioa,</c><01:32:02.320><c> the</c><01:32:02.560><c> March</c><01:32:02.960><c> 2025</c><01:32:
• The other<01:32:28.719><c> part</c><01:32:28.880><c> of</c><01:32:29.040><c> this</c><01:32:29.199><c
• And it<01:32:31.280><c> should</c><01:32:31.440><c> go</c><01:32:31.600><c> without</c><01:32:31.840>
• Under<01:32:36.639><c> current</c><01:32:36.880><c> law,</c><01:32:37.280><c> we</c><01:32:37.440><c>

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The committee heard extensive testimony on Senate Bill 433, which would restrict the carrying of “bladed weapons” and related items. The Office of the Public Defender, Honolulu Police Department, the Hawaii Firearms Coalition, Knife Rights, and many individual testifiers opposed the bill, arguing it is overbroad, vague, and likely unconstitutional. Common concerns were that the term “bladed weapon” could sweep in ordinary tools such as pocketknives, Leathermans, multi-tools, fishing and camping gear, and items used by farmers, ranchers, hunters, divers, and martial arts practitioners. Several speakers also warned that the bill could burden lawful self-defense and create an affirmative-defense scheme that shifts costs and proof burdens onto defendants. Supporters and opponents alike focused on the need for a clearer definition, with HPD saying a narrower definition would help distinguish ordinary tools from dangerous weapons used in assaults. Opponents repeatedly urged the committee to defer or kill the measure, citing pending and related court cases and the risk of new constitutional challenges. Some testifiers tied the bill to Native Hawaiian gathering rights and subsistence practices, saying it would interfere with hunting, fishing, and food gathering, while others argued it would do little to deter criminals and instead penalize law-abiding residents and visitors. After finishing testimony on SB 433, the committee moved on to Senate Bill 2575 relating to firearms. The transcript shows the start of that item with the Office of the Public Defender and other agencies being called, but no substantive testimony or action on SB 2575 is included before the excerpt ends. No votes or final committee actions are reflected in the portion provided.

Transcript Highlights:

• /c><00:32:19.200><c> I</c><00:32:19.360><c> had</c><00:32:19.519><c> the</c><00:32:19.679><c> chance<
• It was painful<00:32:27.519><c> for</c><00:32:27.760><c> me</c><00:32:27.919><c> to</c><00:32:28.080>
• <c> see</c><00:32:28.320><c> her</c><00:32:29.360><c> go</c><00:32:29.679><c> to</c><00:32:30.399><c>
• <c> and</c><00:32:31.519><c> not</c><00:32:31.760><c> be</c><00:32:31.919><c> able</c><00:32:32.080><
• And<00:32:36.880><c> it</c><00:32:37.039><c> was</c><00:32:37.200><c> just</c><00:32:38.559><c> so</c

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• under chapter or statute 701108. 701108. 701108.
• :00.640><c> this</c><00:32:00.960><c> then</c><00:32:01.200><c> we</c><00:32:01.440><c> are</c><00:32
• So &gt;&gt; right<00:32:03.120><c> but</c><00:32:03.279><c> I</c><00:32:03.519><c> think</c><00:32:03.679
• ><c> again</c><00:32:04.080><c> we</c><00:32:04.399><c> have</c><00:32:04.640><c> issues</c> >> Right
• And the purpose offenses in chapter 712.

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The Judiciary Committee heard testimony on several bills related to bribery and public corruption. On SB 2249, which would increase penalties for bribery under certain circumstances, the Honolulu Prosecutor’s Office and Honolulu Police Department supported the measure, arguing that Hawaii’s current class B felony penalty is probationable and too weak to secure cooperation in corruption cases, especially after the U.S. Supreme Court’s Snyder decision narrowed federal bribery prosecutions. The Public Defender opposed the bill, arguing that elevating bribery to a class A felony and making it non-probationable was excessive, overbroad, and would remove judicial discretion. Multiple individuals also testified in support. Committee members questioned the prosecutor about removing deferred acceptance of plea provisions and asked HPD about the $20,000 threshold; the prosecutor said alternative charges could still be used in plea bargaining, and HPD said the threshold aligns with first-degree theft. The committee also discussed how current law tolls the bribery statute of limitations while an official remains in office, with the prosecutor explaining it can extend up to six years total. The committee then heard SB 2494, which would set a nine-year statute of limitations for bribery offenses. The Public Defender opposed the extension, saying the justification based on the length of federal investigations was too broad and that bribery already has a longer limitations period than most felonies. The Honolulu Prosecutor’s Office supported the bill, saying bribery cases often involve coordination with federal investigators, that federal and state evidence-gathering methods may differ, and that a longer period would help ensure admissible evidence and allow state prosecution when federal law no longer applies. Members asked whether there were public examples of cases lost to the current limitations period; the prosecutor said he was not aware of any publicly available examples, but maintained nine years was a reasonable period. The committee also considered SB 2737, which would create a misdemeanor for failure by a state or county elected official to report bribery. The Department of the Attorney General offered comments and suggested changing the term to “public servant” for consistency with existing law. The Honolulu Prosecutor’s Office supported the intent but warned the reporting requirement could create Fifth Amendment issues for witnesses who might otherwise be useful in grand jury proceedings. The bill drew broad public support, with 33 supporters and no opposition noted. Finally, the committee took up SB 3071, which revises sex trafficking and promoting prostitution statutes by redefining “profits from prostitution” and adding an affirmative defense for certain lawful transactions. The Public Defender opposed the measure, saying it still could reach people without the required criminal intent and that the affirmative defense language could be applied unevenly. The Attorney General and Honolulu Prosecutor supported the bill, saying it better addresses concerns raised by the State v. Ibarra decision while closing loopholes that allow traffickers to disguise profits as loans or gifts. The prosecutor emphasized that traffickers are sophisticated and can structure transactions to evade current law.

Transcript Highlights:

• system.<00:32:09.039><c> It's</c><00:32:09.440><c> also</c><00:32:10.080><c> very</c><00:32:10.559><
• </c><00:32:15.200><c> at</c><00:32:15.360><c> the</c><00:32:15.600><c> county</c><00:32:15.919><c> level
• </c><00:32:41.440><c> And</c><00:32:41.600><c> so</c><00:32:41.840><c> the</c><00:32:42.159><c> first
• to</c><00:32:48.480><c> really</c><00:32:49.120><c> invest</c><00:32:50.480><c> with</c><00:32:50.880
• <01:32:13.520><c> alternate</c><01:32:14.000><c> entity</c><01:32:14.480><c> to</c><01:32:14.719><c>

Keywords: 910, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• &gt;&gt; Um<00:32:26.799><c> uh</c><00:32:27.279><c> is</c><00:32:27.440><c> there</c><00:32:27.679><
• ><c> being</c><00:32:30.320><c> able</c><00:32:30.640><c> to</c><00:32:31.039><c> think</c><00:32:32.399
• c><00:32:35.200><c> in</c><00:32:35.440><c> any</c><00:32:35.760><c> states</c><00:32:36.640><c> that
• 32:56.960><c> a</c><00:32:57.120><c> way</c><00:32:57.279><c> to</c><00:32:57.440><c> work</c> period
• That's chapter law. That's chapter 141, That's chapter law.

Keywords: 1189, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• ><c> to</c><00:32:15.360><c> testify</c><00:32:15.760><c> on</c><00:32:15.880><c> this</c><00:32:16.399
• on this meion welcome former<00:32:18.200><c> Governor</c><00:32:19.200><c> are</c><00:32:19.320><c>
• you</c><00:32:19.519><c> here</c><00:32:19.679><c> just</c><00:32:19.840><c> to</c> former Governor
• in democracy in action<00:32:23.039><c> in</c><00:32:23.159><c> as</c><00:32:23.360><c> much</c><00:
• 32:23.480><c> as</c><00:32:23.639><c> it's</c><00:32:23.919><c> disappearing</c> action in as much as

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The joint Committee on Education and Committee on Public Safety and Military Affairs heard Senate Bill 422, which would authorize the Department of Education to award a high school diploma to qualified people whose schooling was interrupted by military service or wartime practices during World War II, the Korean War, or the Vietnam War. The Department of Education testified in support, noting a prior law that created the Kono diploma program before it sunset in 2020. Several members of the public also testified in support. Both committees later recommended passage of SB 422 without amendments, and the recommendation was adopted by voice votes. The committees then heard Senate Bill 530 on Braille literacy. The bill would establish Braille literacy as state policy, require Braille-related literacy assessments for eligible blind and low-vision students, authorize DOE rulemaking, create a Braille Literacy Resource Center, and appropriate funds. DOE and the Department of Human Services supported the measure, as did the National Federation of the Blind, Hawaii Disability Rights Center, and a blind testifier who described the importance of early Braille instruction. The Attorney General’s office raised concerns about statutory language requiring yearly assessments and suggested revisions so annual decisions remain with IEP teams. The committees voted to pass SB 530 with amendments, including the Attorney General’s suggested changes, and adopted the recommendation. The next measure was Senate Bill 532, which would allow school staff and agents trained by a licensed clinician to volunteer to administer medication to students in public schools under certain conditions and clarify who may prescribe such medication. DOE and Department of Health testimony supported the bill. The Attorney General recommended replacing the term “licensed clinician” with the defined term “health care professional.” The Hawaii Academy of Physician Assistants supported the bill but asked that physician assistants be included among providers who may prescribe medications for school administration. After questions about current school health aide duties and field-trip medication procedures, the committees voted to pass SB 532 with amendments, including the Attorney General’s terminology change, and adopted the recommendation.

Transcript Highlights:

• ><c> accomplish</c><00:32:12.399><c> in</c><00:32:12.519><c> order</c><00:32:12.760><c> to</c><00:32:
• > EAS</c><00:32:22.720><c> and</c><00:32:22.840><c> all</c><00:32:23.000><c> these</c><00:32:23.200><
• 04.439><c> the</c><02:32:04.600><c> mandates</c><02:32:05.359><c> in</c><02:32:05.520><c> chapter</c>
• <02:32:05.880><c> 10</c><02:32:06.319><c> are</c> to meet the mandates in chapter 10 are to meet the
• mandates in chapter 10 are actually<02:32:06.840><c> being</c><02:32:07.080><c> done</c><02:32:07.640

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The joint Ways and Means and Hawaiian Affairs committee heard a budget presentation from the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands on its biennium requests for critical projects, repairs and maintenance, and operations. DHHL described its role in administering the Hawaiian Home Lands Trust, noted the large beneficiary wait list, and said prior funding, including Act 279, has helped the department accelerate land development and reduce vacancies. Officials said they have about 47,219 applications involving 29,548 Native Hawaiians, roughly 28 projects underway, and that about $471 million of a $600 million appropriation has been encumbered, with the remaining lapse-fix funds expected to be resolved before the June 30, 2026 deadline. DHHL emphasized that its current request would support additional lot development and could help produce roughly 6,000 units from the existing project pipeline, with another phase of requests potentially adding about 2,000 more units. The department said it is prioritizing shovel-ready projects, accelerating lease awards and orientations, and using a mix of approaches including paper leases, rental-with-option-to-purchase, owner-builder, and loan programs. Officials also discussed a shift toward denser urban development, citing projects in West Oahu and Honolulu, and said the department is working to reduce its vacancy rate and move beneficiaries onto the land more quickly. Members questioned why Oahu, despite having the largest wait list, was receiving comparatively lower amounts, and DHHL responded that land availability and cost drive those decisions, with Oahu having limited developable land and very high acquisition costs. The department pointed to land acquisition on Kauai and other islands, and to urban high-rise projects that can yield far more units on small parcels. Members also raised long-term maintenance and wildfire risk, asking whether current acquisition and development choices account for future infrastructure costs; DHHL said maintenance is a growing concern, especially on large unused or isolated lands, and that it is pursuing Firewise planning, federal funds, and partnerships to reduce risk. The discussion also touched on mixed-use and community-led development, with DHHL explaining that it leases land to nonprofit homestead associations under general leases with milestones, business-plan requirements, and land-use restrictions to support local services and community goals.

Transcript Highlights:

• </c><00:32:18.640><c> we</c><00:32:18.880><c> can,</c><00:32:19.039><c> but</c><00:32:19.279><c> I</c
• </c><00:32:29.120><c> there</c><00:32:29.279><c> in</c><00:32:29.440><c> like</c><00:32:29.679><c> 11
• thank</c><00:32:32.399><c> you</c><00:32:32.559><c> very</c><00:32:32.799><c> much</c><00:32:33.120><
• </c><00:32:34.559><c> Uh</c><00:32:35.200><c> but</c><00:32:35.600><c> this</c><00:32:35.840><c> is</
• </c><00:32:37.519><c> I</c><00:32:37.840><c> think</c><00:32:38.000><c> that</c><00:32:38.559><c> uh<

Bills: HF2783

Keywords: state government finance, biennial budget, appropriations, Minnesota Management and Budget, Healthy Aging Subcabinet, Office of Healthy Aging, older adults, aging policy, long-term care, caregivers, public health, Medicaid fraud, medical assistance fraud, attorney general subpoena power, fraud enforcement, business filing fraud, Secretary of State, deceptive mailings, consumer protection, certified public accountant

Transcript Highlights:

• </c><00:21:11.960><c> thank</c> officer for the Hawaii uh chapter thank officer for the Hawaii uh chapter
• :01.200><c> chair</c><00:32:01.799><c> your</c><00:32:02.080><c> recommendation</c><00:32:02.919><c>
• c> thank</c> adopted thank adopted thank you<00:32:06.559><c> um</c><00:32:07.559><c> for</c><00:32:07.840
• ><c> the</c><00:32:08.279><c> um</c><00:32:08.440><c> committee</c><00:32:08.760><c> on</c><00:32:08.960
• :09.760><c> same</c> Services same Services same recommendation<00:32:11.600><c> any</c><00:32:11.960

Keywords: 910, house, all

Summary: The joint hearing covered HB 553 on biomarker testing coverage, HB 556 on colorectal cancer screening access, and later HB 712 on 340B drug pricing. For HB 553, the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, patient advocates Natalie Heyman and Susan Hirano, a surgical oncologist, and the American Lung Association strongly supported the bill, arguing that biomarker testing should be covered when ordered by a doctor and guided by current evidence. DHS and several insurers offered comments and requested amendments, with DHS saying it appreciated the intent but wanted changes. The committees then voted to pass HB 553 with amendments, including a House draft and a defective date of July 1, 3000; both the House Health and Human Services and Homelessness committees adopted the recommendation unanimously. For HB 556, testimony focused on closing gaps in colorectal cancer screening, especially for uninsured and underinsured patients who can get stool-based screening but then cannot access follow-up colonoscopies. Community Clinic of Maui, ACS CAN, and the American Cancer Society supported the bill, with ACS CAN urging a program similar to the breast and cervical cancer control program and offering amendments. DHS requested that the program and appropriation not conflict with executive budget priorities, and the committees noted technical amendments, a defective date, a blank appropriation amount, and corrections changing Medicare references to Medicaid. HB 556 was also passed with amendments by both committees. The hearing then moved to HB 712 on 340B drug pricing and contract pharmacies. The Department of Health and the Attorney General’s office expressed concern that the bill would require the state to regulate private commercial activity and said the department lacked the expertise and resources to implement it as written, suggesting it might belong in a different statutory section. In contrast, PhRMA opposed the bill, while Hawaii Pacific Health and Hawaii Island Community Health Center supported it, saying 340B savings are important for hospital services and patient access to low-cost medications, especially where manufacturers have restricted shipments to contract pharmacies. No vote on HB 712 was taken in the portion provided.