Video & Transcript : 'employer support' :
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MA
Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session
Joint Committee on Advanced Information Technology, the Internet and Cybersecurity Jun 21st, 2026 at 01:00 pm
Joint Committee on Advanced Information Technology, the Internet and Cybersecurity
Transcript Highlights:
- We can train and support our workforce.
- This legislation restricts employers from wholly relying on automated decision systems to make employment-related
- I'm speaking to you in strong support of House 77, Senate 35.
- Through our MassVision 2050 initiative, we seek to support the key sectors that are likely to drive employment
- I strongly encourage you to support Senate Bill S. 51.
Summary:
The committee held a hearing on several artificial intelligence bills, opening with remarks about the 9/11 anniversary and then broad statements from the co-chairs about AI’s promise and risks. Chair Farley-Bouvier and Senator Moore emphasized the need for guardrails, transparency, and worker and consumer protections, while Senator Finegold described Senate Bill 37, which would create a framework for AI model training with safety assessments, audits, incident reporting, Attorney General oversight, and workforce reporting. Members also discussed Massachusetts’ position relative to other states and the need for state action in the absence of federal regulation.
A large portion of the hearing focused on the Fair Act, House 77 and Senate 35, which would limit workplace surveillance, restrict collection of biometric and location data, require notice and human review for automated employment decisions, and protect workers from retaliation. Labor leaders, including AFL-CIO, AFSCME, AFT, SEIU, building trades, and other worker representatives, testified in support, describing harms from bossware, automated benefits denials, hiring and promotion screening, scheduling, and monitoring in workplaces ranging from health care and education to manufacturing and construction. They argued that AI systems are already affecting wages, benefits, safety, and job security, and that Massachusetts should act now to set clear rules.
The committee also heard testimony on House Bill 74, which would require informed consent and clear contract terms for digital replicas of voices and likenesses, with SAG-AFTRA representatives supporting the bill as a protection for performers and creators. Another major topic was Senate Bill 51 on social media algorithm accountability and transparency; child safety advocates, researchers, and a public health expert described harms from engagement-based algorithms, including exposure to harmful content, eating disorders, and youth mental health impacts, and supported independent audits and public reporting. A few industry and civil liberties witnesses supported regulation but urged balance, warning against overly burdensome rules while acknowledging the need for privacy, transparency, and accountability. No votes or final committee actions were taken in the hearing excerpt.
ID
Idaho 2026 Regular Session
Agenda Jan 29th, 2026
Transcript Highlights:
- We work to support employers and employees, regulators, carriers, the federal government, legislators
- NCCI directly supports over 40 states, as shaded in blue on this map.
- So all of this data also supports our thought leadership.
- higher-risk employers within the state of Idaho.
- Johnson, you mentioned high-risk employers.
Summary:
The Senate Commerce committee approved the January 22, 2026 minutes and then heard three gubernatorial appointments. Erica Malman of Boise was introduced for the Idaho Personnel Commission; she described her background as a natural resources attorney and law firm managing partner, and senators asked about the challenges and rewards of commission service and her legal practice. Brett Thomas of Twin Falls was reappointed to the Idaho Health Insurance Exchange Board, and Dr. Karen Cabell of Post Falls was appointed to the same board; both briefly outlined their professional backgrounds and service, and the committee indicated it would likely vote on the appointments the following Tuesday.
The committee then considered two DOPL rules dockets. Docket 24-3201-2101 for the Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors moved licensing fees into rule, formalized a 60% fee reduction, and removed intern-related fees; it received no public comments and was approved. Docket 24-3950-2101 for the Public Works Contractors Board finalized temporary fee reductions of 16% to 20% and added “not to exceed” language to allow future reductions; it also drew no public comments and was approved effective sine die.
Senate Bill 1221 was presented by Paul Arrington of the Idaho Water Users Association and supported by a water master from Water District 65. The bill would change Percy retirement language from “irrigation district” to “irrigation or drainage entity” so seasonal retirees can work up to eight months for certain water entities without triggering penalties, matching how the provision is already applied. The committee heard no opposition and voted to send the bill to the Senate floor with a do pass recommendation.
The final presentation was an informational briefing from NCCI on Idaho workers’ compensation. Todd Johnson explained NCCI’s role as the state’s rating bureau, described declining claim frequency and generally favorable combined ratios, and noted recent rate decreases, including a 2.5% overall decrease effective January 1, 2026, plus reductions in assigned-risk surcharges. Senators asked about high-risk employers, NCCI’s rating process, and whether it handles claims decisions; Johnson said NCCI sets class-code rate recommendations and does not decide compensability or claims adjustment. The committee adjourned after the presentation.
MN
Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session
Committee on Jobs and Economic Development - 03/10/25
Jobs and Economic Development
Transcript Highlights:
- These are employers who provide the full range of services and supports for older adults and others in
- </c> face multiple barriers to an employment face multiple barriers to an employment and<00:09:38.600
- We thank you for your continued support of the Rural Capacity Program and your support of Minnesota's
- We thank you for your continued support of the Rural Capacity Program and your support of Minnesota's
- employer in central Minnesota.
Committee:
Senate Jobs and Economic Development
US
US Federal 2025-2026 Regular Session
Hearings to examine the nomination of Lori Chavez-DeRemer, of Oregon, to be Secretary of Labor. - Part 2 of 2 Feb 19th, 2025 at 09:00 am
Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- I supported the overturning of the NLRB rule on joint employer to support the franchise business model
- On part of employers so that workers can make a free choice. Do you support the PROACT?
- I'm gathering that you no longer support the President. You support the American worker.
- Do you still support the PRO Act, or don't you support the PRO Act?
- I hope I can support.
Keywords:
PRO Act, labor laws, worker rights, unionization, right-to-work, public testimony, political polarization
Summary:
The meeting centered around an in-depth discussion of the PRO Act, with representatives expressing passionate opinions both for and against the legislation. Representative Chavez de Rimmer emphasized the importance of worker freedom, arguing that the PRO Act would infringe upon individual rights by coercing unionization. This perspective was strongly received by members from right-to-work states, who articulated their concerns about the potential erosion of workers' choices and protections. Speaker after speaker conveyed conflicting views on labor laws, indicating a deeply polarized environment surrounding labor issues at the moment.
NJ
New Jersey 2026-2027 Regular Session
Senate Budget and Appropriations Jun 28th, 2026
Senate Budget and Appropriations
Transcript Highlights:
- the employer-sponsored health care system.
- it ...using it in employment decisions.
- By assessing employers based on the number of workers, By assessing employers based on the number of
- Partisan support.
- And I ask you for your support. Thank you.
Committee:
Senate Senate Budget and Appropriations
MA
Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session
Status of Persons with Disabilities Jun 21st, 2026 at 11:00 am
Transcript Highlights:
- And to support the commission's work.
- that they did for the Disability Employment Subcommittee.
- chapter of the Association of People Supporting Employment First.
- employment.
- Registration for employers is now open.
Summary:
The Massachusetts Permanent Commission on the Status of Persons with Disabilities held its quarterly virtual meeting and approved the September minutes. Chair Denise Garlick opened with updates on the commission’s first “Meeting the Moment” community forum in Needham, reporting strong attendance, a large resource fair, and mostly positive survey feedback. Commissioners said the event was valuable for connecting advocates, providers, and people with disabilities, while also noting lessons learned about accessibility, timing, and the need for more networking time and advance materials. The chair said the commission is planning future forums in other regions, including possible sites in Lowell, Northampton, and the South Shore.
A major item was the new advisory council. Oz Osmondahar and Eman described the outreach and screening process, which drew roughly 60 nominations and emphasized lived experience, sector expertise, geographic diversity, and connections to broader networks. The council will serve as strategic advisors and thought partners, meet twice a year, and hold its first in-person orientation on January 30 at the State House Members Lounge. Commissioners were encouraged to stay engaged with the council and use it to strengthen commission and subcommittee work.
Subcommittee reports covered employment, workforce supports, and long-term services and supports/health equity. The Disability Employment Subcommittee reported collaboration with SEED, a presentation at the Employment Matters Conference, a discussion with a disability employee resource group, and upcoming work with CED and veterans advocates. The Workforce Supports Subcommittee heard from the MassHealth Policy Commission’s Behavioral Health Workforce Center about workforce data gaps and an upcoming needs assessment, and plans to host ADDP on 2025 workforce metrics. The long-term services and supports committee discussed the Housing Navigator program, barriers to accessible housing, and concerns about how federal cuts could affect disability services and health equity.
The commission also heard from DDS Deputy General Counsel Erin Brown and Associate Commissioner Chris Klaskin on a new law expanding access to records from former state institutions, including new notification and privacy procedures and a forthcoming regulatory process with public input. Commissioners welcomed the law as a step toward transparency and dignity. Amen gave an executive director update on the annual report, recent collaboration with the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce, the Office of the Veteran Advocate, a national state-employer practice group, and the IDD/Autism Alliance working group. The meeting also included a moment of reflection for disability activist Alice Wong, a commissioner announcement about Work Without Limits’ virtual career fair, and adjournment after a motion and second were approved unanimously.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Employers want to offer this. I mean, we poll employers, and they want to offer health plans.
- employers.
- And that includes every employer, including our small business employers.
- You wouldn't support?
- So the answer to your question is that we would not support... ...a separate product, this employer group
Bills:
HB139 , HB1818 , HB1942 , HB1959 , HB2221 , HB2254 , HB2563 , HB2067 , HB2275 , HB3211 , HB139
Committee:
House Insurance
Keywords:
HB 1818, Texas Insurance Code, Texas Department of Insurance, commissioner of insurance, health maintenance organization, HMO, insurer, utilization review, preauthorization, prior authorization, medical necessity review, health care services, medical care, insurance regulation, insurance examination, regulatory oversight, confidential records, public information exception, Chapter 843, Chapter 1301
WA
Transcript Highlights:
- grants to support the employment of news journalists.
- Supported employment programs assist clients 21 years of age or older with finding and maintaining jobs
- After a client has spent nine months in supported employment, clients may elect to participate in community
- I'm here to support Senate Bill 5681 on behalf of Community Employment Alliance and as a recovering school
- It would overlap eligibility for special education services with access to supports for employment and
Bills:
SB6294 , SB6211 , SB5650 , SB6033 , SB6297 , SB6343 , SB6067 , SB6082 , SB6323 , SB6324 , SB5862 , SB5923 , SB6151
Committee:
Senate Ways & Means
Keywords:
local government finance, Washington state, RCW, real estate excise tax, REET, sales and use tax, property tax levy, county tax, city tax, affordable housing, housing services, behavioral health, mental health, developmental disabilities, children and families services, youth services, utility tax, low-income utility assistance, veterans assistance, homelessness
MA
Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session
Joint Committee on Racial Equity, Civil Rights, and Inclusion Jun 21st, 2026 at 01:00 pm
Joint Committee on Racial Equity, Civil Rights, and Inclusion
Transcript Highlights:
- We need to reduce barriers to employment.
- So just thinking about some of those work supports and ways to reduce barriers for employment and investments
- So just thinking about some of those work supports and ways to reduce barriers for employment and investments
- We have about 500 members, but we are agnostic to the support, so we support more than are actually fee-paying
- My employer provided that for me. I am a happy person. My employer provides that for me.
Summary:
The Joint Committee on Racial Equity, Civil Rights, and Inclusion held a hearing on the impact of federal policy on the racial wealth gap in Massachusetts, the fourth in a series on federal impacts on racial equity. Chair Bud Williams and Chair Miranda opened by emphasizing that no bills were being heard and that the committee would instead take testimony from invited witnesses; public written testimony was also accepted. The chairs and witnesses repeatedly cited long-standing wealth disparities affecting Black and brown communities, including homeownership, wages, business ownership, and access to capital, and linked those disparities to federal policy changes, housing, education, health care, and workforce development.
Administration officials testified first. Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development Lauren Jones described persistent labor market disparities, including higher unemployment for Black and Latino residents, lower median hourly wages, and underemployment among degree holders, and highlighted state efforts such as ESOL-for-work funding, workforce training grants, MassHire career centers, skills-based hiring, and the state equity dashboards. Secretary of Health and Human Services Kiami Mahania argued that poverty drives poor health, not the reverse, and said wealth gaps contribute to chronic disease, maternal health inequities, medical debt, and shorter life expectancy; she pointed to the Advancing Health Equity Massachusetts initiative, a health care affordability working group, and the governor’s push to bar medical debt from credit reporting. Assistant Secretary Juan Vega of EOED focused on entrepreneurship and procurement, citing technical assistance grants, founder support programs, place-based investment, the Business Front Door, and the need to broaden access to contracts, capital, and business growth opportunities.
Committee members pressed the panel on the effects of the federal “big beautiful bill” on households, especially single-parent and Black women-led households, and on whether the state could develop more timely data systems instead of relying on federal numbers. Officials said the impacts were still being monitored, but warned that Medicaid and SNAP changes would likely hit lower-income households and community institutions hard. Members also asked about unions and apprenticeships, microbusiness definitions, supplier diversity, pay equity, and degree inflation; the administration said registered apprenticeships and skills-based hiring are key tools, and noted that wage equity reporting is still in its early stages. Later testimony from BECMA’s Nicole O’Bean stressed that tariffs, DEI rollbacks, immigration enforcement, capital gaps, and federal funding cuts are constraining Black-owned businesses and inclusive procurement, while Gastón Institute researchers described severe Latino homeownership and rent burdens, educational inequities, and the need for housing, labor, and education policy changes to close the wealth gap.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- The employers will be kept from joining state contracts until they're removed from the list.
- Please support HB 669. It brings some much needed transparency and accountability to the issue.
- I'm here testifying in support of HB 3807.
- Acquiring gainful employment, job skills, and work experience.
- Former foster youth experience high employment, unemployment, unstable employment patterns, and earn
Committee:
House S/C on Workforce
CA
California 2025-2026 Regular Session
Senate Budget and Fiscal Review Committee Jun 17th, 2026
Transcript Highlights:
- What's the definition of an employer? What's the definition of an employer? Anybody?
- employment.
- I'm here to support AB 177. I urge you all to support it too.
- Specifically, we support the Specifically, we support the employer fair share contribution plan that
- As a result, I'm urging your support on AB 177. It's in support of a fair share.
Summary:
The Senate Budget and Fiscal Review subcommittee heard four budget trailer bills: AB 110, AB 122, AB 125, and AB 177. AB 110 was described as a budget bill junior identifying budget-related legislation. AB 122 would extend sales tax to electronically delivered or remotely accessed prewritten software, extend and later limit business tax credits, reduce the annual LLC/LLP/LP tax for first-year businesses for three years, and impose a 100% tax on certain federal anti-weaponization fund settlements. AB 125 would renew the managed care organization (MCO) tax for three years beginning in 2027 to support Medi-Cal and targeted provider rate increases. AB 177 would require the Department of Finance to return by March 1, 2027 with options for assessing large employers for the Medi-Cal costs of employees enrolled in the program, including at least one employer-paid premium option for firms with 250 or more employees, and would appropriate $1,000 General Fund for implementation.
Administration witnesses said AB 122 modernizes the tax system and helps create general fund revenue, while AB 125 is needed to preserve Medi-Cal financing and targeted rate increases under new federal constraints from H.R. 1 and to avoid a budget hole if the MCO tax expires. On AB 177, Finance said the bill is only a study and does not itself impose a tax, but would direct the administration to develop options for future consideration. Supportive members argued the package is part of a balanced approach to address the structural deficit, protect health care and other safety-net programs, and ensure large corporations pay more of their share. They also said AB 177 is a necessary step toward asking large employers to help cover public health care costs for workers who rely on Medi-Cal.
Opponents, led by Vice Chair Niello and several other Republicans, argued the state does not have a revenue shortage but a spending problem, warning that the proposals would raise costs on consumers and businesses, discourage innovation, and expand taxes beyond their intended scope. They criticized AB 122 as potentially taxing labor-like services and limiting research and development credits, and said AB 125 would increase premiums for commercial enrollees and employers. On AB 177, they questioned the lack of definitions and specifics, saying the bill is too vague and could eventually burden employers, including hospitals and part-time workers, without clear standards. No votes were taken in the portion of the hearing provided; the committee heard testimony and questions before public comment and later action.
CA
Transcript Highlights:
- Witnesses and support must be those accompanying the author or who otherwise have registered a support
- a me-too in support of this legislation.
- At this time, we'll move to witnesses in support. Two minutes each.
- I think as an employer, and to respond to your question, Assembly Member, employers make decisions and
- I think as an employer, and to respond to your question, Assembly member, employers make decisions and
Committee:
House Health
MN
Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session
Committee on Jobs and Economic Development - 02/10/25
Jobs and Economic Development
Transcript Highlights:
- This bill is about solidifying important resources for employment support for people with mental illness
- More people are seeking support, and we cannot afford to reduce access to critical employment support
- More people are seeking support, and we cannot afford to reduce access to critical employment support
- 08:57.120><c> supported</c> evidence-based practice that's supported evidence-based practice that's supported
- Increasing job retention by offering a continuum of employment coaching, navigation, and support services
Committee:
Senate Jobs and Economic Development
FL
Florida 2026 4th Special Session
February 11, 2026 - 08:00 AM
Transcript Highlights:
- Jennifer Swain, waving in support. Julie Adamson, waving in support. Co.
- Robbins, waving in support. Co-Robbins, waving in support. Maya Hahn, waving in support.
- Please support this bill. Please support this bill. Thank you.
- Maya Hahn, waving in support. Jennifer Swain, waving in support. Co. Robbins, waving in support.
- in support; and Lorena Holly, Florida Retail Federation, waving in support.
Summary:
The subcommittee first took up HB 339, which would create liability for vaccine manufacturers that advertise in Florida and require them to stand behind their products if consumers are harmed. The sponsor argued the bill is meant to restore trust in vaccines, improve informed consent, and address inadequate federal vaccine-injury compensation systems; he said he was open to amendments and noted the bill was modeled on Texas law. Opponents, including a former vaccine-court official, a Florida Justice Reform Institute representative, and a physician, argued the bill is preempted by federal law, raises First Amendment concerns, is vague, and is unnecessary because existing federal compensation programs already provide a remedy. After an amendment delaying the effective date by three months was adopted, the committee heard extensive public testimony, mostly opposed, and then approved HB 339 as amended by a 12-4 vote.
The committee then began HB 1001, a strike-all on official actions of local governments that would bar counties and municipalities from official DEI-related actions and spending, define DEI and related terms, add enforcement provisions, and include broad exceptions for holidays, observances, and certain content-neutral civic events. The sponsor said the measure is intended to curb what he described as divisive and wasteful DEI activity in local government while preserving compliance with anti-discrimination laws and other listed exceptions. Members questioned the lack of definitions for terms like “preferential treatment” and the bill’s possible effects on local festivals, language-access services, Pride events, memorials, and community programs; the sponsor said some concerns were addressed by exceptions and that he was open to further changes. Public testimony was overwhelmingly opposed, with speakers warning of overbreadth, preemption, frivolous lawsuits, harm to local autonomy, and impacts on marginalized communities, while supporters said the bill would restore neutrality, accountability, and merit-based governance. The amendment to HB 1001 was adopted, and the committee continued hearing testimony and debate on the bill as amended.
LA
Transcript Highlights:
- I appreciate the support of the committee. Okay.
- Amendment 4 is allowing... ...employer responsibilities.
- , but these employees are not... ...changing employers.
- No, I appreciate y'all support on the bill. All right.
- I appreciate your support. All right.
Committee:
House Retirement
NM
New Mexico 2025 Regular Session
House - Commerce and Economic Development Feb 3rd, 2025
House Commerce & Economic Development Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- We're here in support of this bill.
- You can ask your employer for an advance on your wages.
- I am here for you today to urge you to support me.
- So there's an employer-partnered model in which the employer goes to seek these services in order to
- And why wouldn't employers do this on their own?
ID
Transcript Highlights:
- They leave employment, end up in employment with an employer who may have a self-funded health plan.
- an employer who participates in a multi-employer plan, which is, you know, governed by ERISA.
- They leave employment, end up in employment with an employer who may have a self-funded health plan.
- an employer who participates in a multi-employer plan, which is, you know, governed by ERISA.
- to support.
Committee:
House Business
NH
Transcript Highlights:
- </c> Baseball and the uh unions to support Baseball and the uh unions to support the<00:05:13.759><c>
- ><c> we're</c><00:05:19.280><c> requesting</c> support the exemption we're requesting support the exemption
- </c><00:12:49.680><c> Uh</c> work at employer specified times. Uh work at employer specified times.
- For example, treating the employer.
- co-employer co-employer is<00:27:45.840><c> responsible</c><00:27:46.320><c> for</c><00:27:46.559><c
Committee:
Senate Commerce
MA
Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session
Joint Committee on Racial Equity, Civil Rights, and Inclusion Mar 31st, 2026
Joint Committee on Racial Equity, Civil Rights, and Inclusion
Transcript Highlights:
- We use to reduce barriers to employment.
- So just thinking about some of those work supports and ways to reduce barriers for employment and investments
- We have about 500 members, but we are agnostic to the support, so we support more than are actually fee-paying
- My employer provided that for me. I am a happy person. My employer provides that for me.
- For Hispanics, 44% got their employment or health insurance from their employer, 42% from MassHealth,
MA
Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session
Joint Committee on Racial Equity, Civil Rights, and Inclusion Mar 31st, 2026
Joint Committee on Racial Equity, Civil Rights, and Inclusion
Transcript Highlights:
- We use it to reduce barriers to employment.
- So just thinking about some of those work supports and ways to reduce barriers for employment and investments
- We have about 500 members, but we are agnostic to the support, so we support more than are actually fee-paying
- My employer provided that for me. I am a happy person. My employer provides that for me.
- For Hispanics, 44% got their employment or health insurance from their employer, 42% from MassHealth,
Summary:
The Joint Committee on Racial Equity, Civil Rights, and Inclusion held a hearing on the impact of federal policy on the racial wealth gap in Massachusetts, with no bills heard. Chairs Bud Williams and Miranda opened by framing the issue as a structural, long-standing disparity affecting Black and brown communities, citing major gaps in wealth, income, housing, and opportunity. Members noted this was the fourth hearing in a series on federal impacts on racial equity, and public written testimony was invited by the posted deadline.
Administration witnesses Secretary Lauren Jones, Secretary Kiami Mahania, and Assistant Secretary Juan Vega described how labor, health, and economic development policy intersect with wealth-building. Jones pointed to higher unemployment, wage gaps, and underemployment among Black and Latino workers, and highlighted ESOL, workforce training, MassHire, and skills-based hiring efforts. Mahania argued poverty drives poor health, linking medical debt, Medicaid instability, maternal health, and chronic disease to wealth loss, and said federal changes could worsen both health and wealth gaps. Vega focused on entrepreneurship and procurement, citing disparities in business ownership and revenue, and described state efforts such as small business technical assistance, founder pipelines, place-based grants, and the Business Front Door; members also pressed him on microbusiness definitions, supplier diversity, and whether state programs were reaching firms that had received prior grants.
Nicole O’Bean of the Black Economic Council of Massachusetts testified that Black-owned businesses face a hostile environment due to tariffs, DEI rollbacks, immigration enforcement, capital barriers, and federal funding cuts that reduce contracts from education, health care, and nonprofit sectors. She emphasized that certification alone is not enough and called for stronger inclusive procurement outcomes, better data, and more support for microbusinesses. Dr. Melissa Colon and Dr. Fabian Torres-Dal of the Mauricio Gaston Institute testified on Latino wealth gaps, especially low homeownership, high rent burden, limited access to credit, and occupational segregation; they said structural racism, wage gaps, and education inequities are central drivers and urged housing, labor, and education reforms. Committee members repeatedly linked the hearing’s themes to redlining, medical debt, single-parent households, financial literacy, and the need for legislation and state programs to close the gap, but no votes or formal actions were taken.