Transcript Highlights:

• East Baton Rouge Parish is the largest population in the state.
• By contrast, East Baton Rouge had 2,216.
• The truth is in the middle.
• I am the chief judge of family court in East Baton Rouge.
• at only the East Batford family court.

Bills: HCR11 , HB153 , HB278 , HB424 , HB454 , HB455 , HB687 , HB816 , HB833 , HB942 , HB1053 , HB1097 , HB1147 , HB1148 , HB1190 , SB75 , SB85 , SB197 , SB200 , SB217

Committee: House Judiciary

Summary: The committee first adopted a three-minute rule for the rest of the meeting by a 9-3 vote. It then took up SB 217, which would reorganize Orleans Parish courts by reducing judgeships in criminal, juvenile, traffic, and municipal courts and, through an adopted amendment, creating one civil district court with 13 judges and allowing hearing officers. Senator Morris argued the changes were based on caseload comparisons and population data; opponents from the Urban League and ACLU said the bill was driven by power rather than efficiency, relied on incomplete or inconsistent data, would strain the courts, and would reduce minority representation on the bench. The committee reported the bill favorably as amended by an 11-4 vote. The committee next considered SB 197, which would reduce the number of judges on the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeal by two. Senator Morris again cited filings and caseload comparisons, while opponents argued the bill ignored the intensity and complexity of appellate work, could increase backlog and costs, and would disproportionately affect Black women judges. The bill was reported favorably by an 11-4 vote. The committee also adopted HCR 11, expressing support for the Louisiana National Guard at Camp Beauregard and the Youth Challenge Program, and reported favorably SB 85, creating an insurance fund for retired St. Charles Parish sheriff’s employees. Several other measures were advanced with little or no opposition. HB 833 created the Sexual Assault Survivor Empowerment Task Force and was amended to add representatives from the coroners’ association, a survivor appointed by STAR, and a licensed clinical social worker; it was reported favorably. HB 816, with a technical correction, prohibited foreign adversaries from acquiring property near military installations and was reported favorably. HB 1053, dealing with definitions for dealers and retail dealers and allowing certain businesses to serve complimentary alcoholic beverages under agreed-upon floor amendments, was reported favorably. HB 153, as amended, removed the Office of Debt Recovery from the bill and limited it to prohibiting reporting certain criminal fines and fees to credit bureaus; it was reported favorably. SB 75, on cybersecurity reimbursement and baseline standards for local governments after cyber incidents, was reported favorably after testimony from GOSEP and others. SB 200, allowing expropriation of land near military bases owned by foreign adversaries when a court finds a threat to public health and safety, was also reported favorably after extensive testimony and discussion. Finally, HB 454, the Gracie Claire Rushing Act on chain of custody for human remains and internal organs, was converted into a substitute bill, adopted, and then introduced for further discussion, with the sponsor describing it as a transparency and accountability measure for grieving families.

Transcript Highlights:

• Oliveira, West-East Passenger Rail. Senator Oliveira. Thank you, Madam President.
• Palmer is a unique case in West-East Rail.
• That is why this amendment brings an economic development factor to West-East Rail.
• West-East Rail has never advanced through one vote.
• That is why this amendment brings an economic development factor to West-East Rail.

Transcript Highlights:

• And so now that's going to be, you know, in East Texas, a very popular program. Absolutely.
• And so now that's going to be, you know, in East Texas, a very popular program. Absolutely.
• And so now that's going to be, you know, in East Texas, a very popular program. Absolutely.
• And so now that's going to be, you know, in East Texas, a very popular program. Absolutely.
• And Harrison, you're in the middle of a shift right now, so you know what the issue is.

Summary: The Senate Committee on Higher Education met to review interim charges on the Permanent University Fund (PUF), the Available University Fund (AUF), the Higher Education Fund (HEAF), and the Texas University Fund (TUF). Legislative Budget Board staff outlined how each fund works, including PUF’s constitutional role for UT and Texas A&M, HEAF’s capital support for institutions outside those systems, and TUF’s research funding for eligible universities. They also described TUF’s growing corpus and distribution changes, and noted which institutions are nearing eligibility. Committee members asked about distribution formulas, comparisons to other states, and how funds are allocated among system institutions.

Transcript Highlights:

• And then Ron Wilson, who's with East Green Acres Irrigation District, just west of Coeur d'Alene.
• This is a picture from the East Green Acres Irrigation District.
• These are the... ...the East Green Acres Irrigation District.
• Ron Wilson, East Green Acres Irrigation District.
• This picture shows the young man in the middle, Nathan. He is graduating there.

Committee: Senate Resources and Environment

Transcript Highlights:

• Given the timing of things, the situation in the Middle East was just unfolding as they were preparing
• Given the timing of things, the situation in the Middle East was just unfolding as they were preparing
• East. ...because of the Middle East situation.
• And largely the impact of those higher gas prices and the supply constraints in the Middle East, causing
• Because I remember in budget section years ago, I was in the middle of that discussion. Mr.

Summary: The Government Finance Committee met with new leadership, approved the December 11 minutes, and received a series of informational updates on the state’s finances and related policy issues. The Office of Management and Budget reported the general fund is tracking very close to forecast, with revenues about $2 million above forecast and an estimated ending balance of about $397 million, higher than previously expected. OMB also reviewed balances in major funds, including the budget stabilization fund, legacy fund, foundation aid stabilization fund, social services fund, and strategic investment and improvements fund, and answered questions about oil tax revenues and fund management. The Tax Department provided updates on taxable sales and purchases by county and industry, noting Cass County as the largest county by taxable sales and that retail trade remains the largest industry sector. Tax Commissioner Brian Kroshus also discussed the federal One Big Beautiful Bill Act and its estimated effects on North Dakota income tax collections, explaining that the projected revenue impacts are measured against a 2025 baseline and that some provisions are temporary while others are permanent. He also reported that primary residence tax credit applications were running ahead of last year, with more than 154,000 received so far and an expectation of roughly 160,000-plus applications. The committee also heard fee-study presentations from the Department of Transportation and the Information Technology Department. DOT explained that driver’s license fees cover only about half of program costs and that the shortfall is subsidized by the highway fund, while also noting recent changes such as the blackout plate and motor vehicle excise tax distribution changes. NDIT described its internal service fund model, current billing structure, and possible future changes to simplify invoices and billing frequency. Legislative staff also updated the committee on office space needs in Bismarck-Mandan and on legislative branch space planning, and subcommittees reported progress on fixed-route transit funding and regional jail capacity, including a visit to the Burleigh-Morton detention facility and discussion of future prison bed needs. No formal votes or legislative actions beyond approving the minutes were taken, and the committee adjourned with its next meeting set for June 25.

Transcript Highlights:

• I'm the general counsel for East Kentucky Power Cooperative, located in Winchester, Kentucky. the uh
• I'm the general counsel for<00:01:45.520><c> East</c><00:01:45.759><c> Kentucky</c><00:01:46.240><c>
• Power</c><00:01:46.560><c> Cooperative</c> for East Kentucky Power Cooperative for East Kentucky Power
• Thank goodness that bill passed and we're here today in the middle.
• </c> and we're here here today in the middle. and we're here here today in the middle.

Committee: House Natural Resources & Energy

Transcript Highlights:

• These teachers represent East Baton Rouge Parish from multiple areas, from multiple schools in District
• And that's Brandy Payne from Glasgow Middle High School.
• ; Bel Air Magnet, Derek Graham, East Baton Rouge Readiness Elementary, Bel Air Magnet, Derek Graham,
• East Baton Rouge Readiness Elementary, Sharon Reed, East Baton Rouge Career and Technical, Brandy Theriot
• , Angela Gordon, Zachary Elementary, Kane Kindler, Sherwood Middle, Antoinette Guizan, Broadmoor High

Bills: SR134 , SR135 , SR136 , SR137 , SR140 , SR141 , SR142 , SCR75 , SCR77 , SCR12 , HB75 , HB1199 , HB221 , HCR89 , HCR96 , HCR103 , HCR108 , HCR58 , HB9 , HB177 , HB181 , HB198 , HB202 , HB223 , HB225 , HB387 , HB398 , HB457 , HB459 , HB540 , HB591 , HB616 , HB766 , HB775 , HB783 , HB797 , HB895 , HB906 , HB950 , HB975 , HB1028 , HB1052 , HB1057 , HB1076 , HB1100 , HB1139 , HB1155 , HB1160 , HB1182 , HB1186 , HB1220 , HB1222 , HB1223 , HB1224 , HB1228 , HB1231 , HB1245 , HB1256 , SCR3 , SB393 , SB401 , SB415 , SB426 , SB435 , SB487 , SB488 , SB523 , SB56 , SB163 , SB341 , SB504 , SB322 , SCR9 , SCR58 , SB35 , SB65 , SB215 , SB246 , SB249 , SB269 , SB282 , SB296 , SB323 , SB363 , SB369 , SB474 , SB490 , SB492 , SB500 , SB514 , HCR27 , HCR28 , HCR66 , HCR67 , HCR72 , HCR31 , HCR47 , HCR41 , HB363 , HB368 , HB377 , HB380 , HB386 , HB392 , HB431 , HB441 , HB559 , HB664 , HB685 , HB715 , HB741 , HB822 , HB856 , HB908 , HB980 , HB990 , HB999 , HB1010 , HB1243 , HB54 , HB137 , HB180 , HB192 , HB310 , HB321 , HB396 , HB512 , HB552 , HB578 , HB638 , HB663 , HB708 , HB717 , HB718 , HB1009 , HB1082 , HB1104 , HB1107 , HB1198 , HB1246 , HB27 , HB143 , HB205 , HB259 , HB267 , HB288 , HB308 , HB403 , HB405 , HB414 , HB417 , HB478 , HB546 , HB548 , HB555 , HB557 , HB609 , HB670 , HB672 , HB740 , HB779 , HB786 , HB796 , HB812 , HB848 , HB915 , HB917 , HB921 , HB930 , HB933 , HB1095 , HB1096 , HB1103 , HB1129 , HB1154 , HB1166 , HB1187 , HB1195 , HB1230 , HB316 , HB511 , HB799 , HB1039 , HB12 , HB66 , HB145 , HB167 , HB196 , HB213 , HB218 , HB222 , HB256 , HB291 , HB326 , HB352 , HB401 , HB430 , HB433 , HB434 , HB448 , HB456 , HB476 , HB481 , HB487 , HB492 , HB549 , HB579 , HB608 , HB621 , HB624 , HB626 , HB632 , HB637 , HB656 , HB722 , HB745 , HB804 , HB818 , HB821 , HB833 , HB864 , HB867 , HB874 , HB893 , HB909 , HB951 , HB968 , HB969 , HB978 , HB979 , HB988 , HB989 , HB1001 , HB1005 , HB1007 , HB1024 , HB1032 , HB1038 , HB1050 , HB1051 , HB1056 , HB1059 , HB1077 , HB1080 , HB1081 , HB1086 , HB1108 , HB1112 , HB1153 , HB1172 , HB1173 , HB1175 , HB1192 , HB1193 , HB1204 , HB1218 , HB1242 , HB1244 , HB1249 , HB1252 , HB1254 , HB17 , HB36 , HB41 , HB47 , HB73 , HB126 , HB133 , HB140 , HB159 , HB166 , HB211 , HB226 , HB271 , HB324 , HB337 , HB351 , HB399 , HB571 , HB712 , HB723 , HB726 , HB750 , HB759 , HB844 , HB966 , HB1006 , HB1018 , HB1036 , SB29 , SB42 , SB43 , SB78 , SB208 , SB217 , SB274 , SB300 , SB379 , SB382 , SB387 , SB441 , SB449 , HB74 , HB134 , HB258 , HB359 , HB468 , HB956 , HB1117 , SB149

Keywords: SR134, Senate Resolution 134, Isaac Herzenberg, Metairie Park Country Day School, Country Day, javelin, track and field, Class 2A, state championship, high school athletics, student athlete, Louisiana Senate commendation, honorary resolution, sports recognition, University of Nebraska, Baton Rouge, LSU Bernie Moore Track Stadium, sportsmanship, collegiate athletics, condolence resolution

Transcript Highlights:

• of even our peer of in the middle of even our peer Kentucky<00:09:51.120><c> instate</c><00:09:52.000
• HBAC improvements at their high and middle school.
• Um, it looks like they're doing a new middle school, a new multi-purpose facility.
• The state is McClean Middle, and High.
• </c><00:32:45.679><c> school,</c> like they're doing a new middle school, like they're doing a new middle

Summary: The committee first approved the February minutes and noted there had been no March meeting. Staff then provided a series of information items, including quarterly capital project status reports from state agencies and postsecondary institutions, a University of Kentucky equipment purchase report, notice that the committee took no action on certain March transactions, school district debt notices for Fayette and Jessamine counties, lease-space advertisements due to building conditions, a Kentucky Asset/Liability Commission report, and asset preservation project reports from KCTCS and Eastern Kentucky University. The committee then heard and unanimously approved Murray State University’s request for interim authorization to use institutional revenues for a $1.5 million roof replacement at the Curs Center student center. University of Kentucky also received unanimous approval for a $115 million public-private partnership project to expand Parking Structure 7 and the Johnson Center recreation space; testimony emphasized the loss of parking from hospital expansion, increased student enrollment, a planned $21 per semester recreation fee increase, and the goal of improving student retention and campus capacity. Next, the committee received a report on a Kentucky State Police Post 11 renovation in London funded at $1.138 million, with members asking how long the repairs would extend the building’s useful life; KSP said the work was a long-term investment and replacement was still many years away. The committee also approved multiple real property lease actions, including a new CHFS lease in Scott County, several lease renewals for the Commonwealth’s Attorney, CHFS, Transportation Cabinet, and a Secretary of State relocation lease tied to a capital renovation project. Members questioned one Jefferson County lease rate and the witness said it had been in place since 2007. Finally, the Kentucky Infrastructure Authority presented three water loan items, which were rolled and then approved: an $841,383 East Clark County Water District loan for waterline upgrades, a roughly $6.13 million Oldham County Water District loan for US 42 improvements, and a $619,180 increase for Canonsburg Water District’s Schopes Road project due to higher-than-expected bids. The committee then approved eight K-12 school facility issuances, including projects in Clinton, Franklin, Fulton, Lincoln, McLean, Paris, Somerset, and Spencer counties, covering early childhood, new school construction, HVAC, energy conservation, and renovations. The meeting ended with notice of the next meeting date and adjournment.

Transcript Highlights:

• It split up the East End community and has paired us with Liberty.
• And I just wish that especially my folks in the East End would have been able to come and give public
• Chairman, you mentioned that you heard about this in the middle of the session.
• But you're saying that you heard some talk about this in the middle of the regular session, so that's
• My district stretches all the way from Far East Tarrant County out into West Texas.

Transcript Highlights:

• </c> media school specialist at the middle media school specialist at the middle school<00:26:23.520>
• That investment didn't just build a building, director at East Central Regional director at East Central
• 18:56.480><c> Minnesota,</c> regions like east central Minnesota, regions like east central Minnesota
• </c><01:19:30.560><c> Central</c> 2025 alone, residents in East Central 2025 alone, residents in East
• At East becomes increasingly important.

Committee: Senate Education Finance

Transcript Highlights:

• This project includes renovation of Middle Hall to improve energy efficiency and improve residential
• This project includes renovation of Middle Hall to improve energy efficiency and improve residential
• The first is Henderson County lease revenue bonds with a par amount of $24.5 million to renovate East
• Heights Elementary School renovate East Heights Elementary School the<00:25:10.360><c> Commonwealth<
• </c><00:25:27.679><c> School</c> Renovations at Northern Middle School Renovations at Northern Middle

Summary: The committee first approved the January minutes and then received several informational reports on school district tax levies, revenue bonds, lease advertisements, and previously rejected lease transactions. Members were told that one rejected lease for the Cabinet for Health and Family Services in Hardin County would be canceled and rebid, while a Perry County lease modification for the Energy and Environment Cabinet would proceed. The Kentucky Communications Network Authority also submitted its quarterly capital projects report, and Eastern Kentucky University reported revisions to asset preservation projects. Janice Thomas, Deputy State Budget Director, presented four capital project action items. These included a Kentucky State University Betty White Building renovation funded by USDA grant money, a Department of Education state schools dormitory and cottage renovation appropriation increase because bids exceeded estimates, a restricted-funds scope increase for the Elizabethtown CTC science building expansion, and a pool project report for the Department of Corrections’ KCIW kitchen drain line repair and replacement. Representative Petrie asked about how often the statutory authority for midstream project increases is used and whether bids are typically competitive; Thomas said the increases are used often when bids come in above estimates and that bids are generally competitive, though construction costs have been difficult to gauge. The committee unanimously approved the first three action items, and the KCIW project was reported with no action required. H. Sandy Williams of the Kentucky Infrastructure Authority then presented six loans and one emergency grant. The items included loans for Frankfort’s East Frankfort Interceptor wet weather facility project, Sturgis wastewater improvements, Scottsville inflow and infiltration work, Morganfield wastewater treatment plant planning and design, Western Pulaski County Water District transmission improvements, and Springfield water system planning and replacement work, plus an emergency Kentucky Waters grant for Eddyville following a sewer treatment plant failure and local emergency declarations. After no questions, the committee unanimously approved the seven KIA transactions. Chelsea Couch then presented a Kentucky Housing Corporation conduit issuance for $38.4 million to finance a multifamily rental project in Jefferson County; members asked how the committee participates and were told it was a conduit issuance rather than state debt. The committee approved that item. Finally, the committee heard an informational Turnpike Authority refunding issuance of about $53 million for present value savings, then approved four SFCC debt issues for Henderson, Pulaski, Scott, and Trimble counties to finance school renovations and construction. The meeting ended with notice of the next meeting date and location.

Transcript Highlights:

• Pastor Sprague has just come back from the Middle East.
• Pastor Sprague has just come back from the Middle East.
• Pastor Sprague has just come back from the Middle East.

Summary: The House convened with 96 members present, opened in prayer and pledge, and introduced several resolutions and bills. Among the measures laid over were resolutions recognizing Funeral Directors’ Day, the crew of Eve’s anniversary, Crime Stoppers of Greater New Orleans, Nurse Practitioner Day, and condolences resolutions for several individuals. Bills introduced included appropriations measures to pay consent judgments, a property tax exemption bill for certain trusts involving seniors, and a nursing practice bill on administering reconstituted medication. Committee reports were also received, including favorable reports and amendments on multiple House bills from Civil Law and Transportation. The chamber adopted several resolutions without objection, including condolences for former Speaker Joe R. Salter, Derek Scott, and Leroy Cavalier, recognition of Bernardo de Gálvez and Hispanic contributions to the American Revolution, Codafield Day, Drew Brees’ Hall of Fame election, and support for continued National Guard operations at Camp Beauregard. Other resolutions were referred to committees, including measures on DOJ transparency regarding Epstein-related records, a housing rental assistance feasibility study, LHSAA recognition of dance and cheer as sports, and a study of disinheritance procedures for intestate successors. During personal privilege remarks, Representative McCormick discussed PILOTs (payments in lieu of taxes), citing legislative auditor findings about limited reporting and local entities’ authority to approve PILOTs, and questioned their economic development impact. Representatives also recognized a visiting 7th grade class from Trinity Episcopal School and held a moment of silence honoring Reverend Jesse Jackson. Announcements included upcoming committee meetings, a rescheduled Transportation Committee meeting with additional bills added, an ethics training after adjournment, and a Bible study meeting the next morning. The House then adjourned until 2:00 p.m. the following day.

Transcript Highlights:

• relationship with Turkey, but as we look at what's happening in Syria and throughout the rest of the Middle
• The Middle East perpetually on edge, Iran's nuclear ambition, North Korean WMD and missile programs,
• From great power competition around the world, and conflicts in Europe and the Middle East, to flows
• Iran and its proxies continue to be the number one threat to stability in the Middle East.
• East, again, knowing that some of those get exported here as well?

Committee: Senate Foreign Relations Committee

Keywords: Senator Flinstone, HB22, SB4, amendments, public testimony, legislation, environmental impact, economic implications

Summary: The meeting featured a thorough examination of various bills, including substantial discussions on HB22 and SB4. Key points included amendments proposed by committee members, particularly from Senator Flinstone, who emphasized the need for clarifications on certain provisions. The committee actively engaged with several witnesses providing public testimony, some in favor of the proposed legislation while others highlighted concerns and potential implications. The discussions were vibrant, showcasing different perspectives, especially on the environmental and economic impacts of the bills in question. The meeting concluded with a consensus to reconvene after a recess to further address the outstanding issues related to the bills.

Transcript Highlights:

• As a former school board member in East Bay education, As a former school board member and East Bay education
• in our community here in the state of California and around the world, with the hostilities in the Middle
• East.
• It is deeply personal for many of us. ...the world with the hostilities in the Middle East.
• Among his most salient teachings, Buddha professed the middle way.

Summary: The Assembly convened after a quorum call, with opening prayer and pledge, followed by a series of guest introductions recognizing Nevada County search and rescue volunteers, a Canadian delegation, Oakland High School Public Health Academy students, Claremont McKenna College students, St. Edward’s Parish School students, and others. The body also approved several procedural motions, including re-referrals of bills to committees and permission for committees to notice bills pending re-referral. On the floor file, the Assembly adopted ACR 152 designating March 2026 as American Red Cross Month, with remarks praising Red Cross disaster relief, blood supply, and training work. It also adopted HR 90 celebrating No-Ruz, the Persian New Year, with members noting its themes of renewal and resilience amid conflict affecting Iranian communities. Later, ACR 141 recognizing Visak Day was adopted, honoring the Buddha’s birth and teachings on peace, compassion, and balance. Each of these resolutions received numerous co-authors before voice vote adoption. The Assembly also passed AB 1844, which updates the Judges’ Retirement System 2 to allow judges to designate non-spouse beneficiaries for survivor retirement benefits and extend protections to vested judges. On the consent calendar, AB 1948 relating to firearms and several resolutions, including HR 94 on Major League Baseball Opening Day 2026 and Senate concurrent resolutions, were adopted, with AB 1948 passing 60-0. The session concluded with an adjournment in memory of Caitlin Katie Mardellett and a motion to adjourn for spring recess until April 6.

Transcript Highlights:

• Monte Perez, President of East Los Angeles College, and Dr.
• Monte Perez, President of East Los Angeles College and Dr.
• Vartanian and East Los Angeles College to offer their job openings.
• I really appreciate the work and efforts at East L.A.
• Thank you so much to East L.A.

Summary: The hearing opened the Select Committee on Effective Postsecondary Career, Technical Education, and Workforce Development Programs at Santa Ana College, with Assemblymember Mike Fong emphasizing the need for affordable, accelerated pathways into high-demand careers and noting his bill AB 1098 creating the California Interagency Education Council. Chancellor Marvin Martinez welcomed the committee and urged changes to AB 927 to remove the “duplication” barrier for community college bachelor’s degrees, arguing that applied baccalaureate programs can lead to high-wage jobs and expand access for low- and middle-income students. The first panel focused on statewide workforce trends and policy. California Community Colleges Vice Chancellor Anthony Cordova highlighted credit for prior learning, Strong Workforce funding, dual enrollment, and apprenticeship growth, asking the Legislature to restore and increase Strong Workforce funding and expand applied baccalaureate degrees. LAEDC’s Josep Bilayo described regional labor market data showing growth in health care, education, construction, bioscience, and clean energy, while stressing the need for employer-led, data-driven programs, wraparound supports, and flexible funding. Andrew Gonzalez of the Building and Construction Trades Council argued that registered apprenticeship must be paid, combine classroom and on-the-job training, and end in a portable credential; he also promoted apprenticeship readiness programs, community workforce agreements, and stronger exposure to trades starting in K-12. Eric Morrison Smith of the Alliance for Boys and Men of Color discussed the California Opportunity Youth Apprenticeship Grant Program and related youth apprenticeship recommendations, including bridge programs, intermediary infrastructure, reduced employer barriers, and better coordination of state funding. A later panel highlighted Santa Ana College’s fire technology and firefighting academy programs. President Annabelle Neri and Vice President Jeffrey Lamb said the college is one of the state’s largest fire training providers, with strong partnerships with local fire agencies, law enforcement, and the U.S. Forest Service, and with high job placement and six-figure starting salaries for some graduates. They also described related certificates, advanced officer training, wellness services, and workforce preparation such as mock interviews and sponsorships. Throughout the hearing, members and panelists repeatedly stressed the importance of aligning education with labor market demand, expanding apprenticeships and work-based learning, and using regional collaboration to connect students to living-wage careers.

Transcript Highlights:

• He said East Central Energy serves 68,000 homes and businesses in east central Minnesota, probably a
• </c> Uh Justin John's East Central Energy. Uh Justin John's East Central Energy.
• </c> 68,000 homes and businesses in east 68,000 homes and businesses in east central<00:52:24.480><c>
• ><c> is</c><00:57:04.000><c> developing</c> fact, East Central Energy is developing fact, East Central
• Johnson's team at uh, East uh, Mr. Johnson's team at uh, East Central<01:20:39.040><c> Energy.

Bills: HF3830 , HF3688

Committee: House Energy Finance and Policy

Transcript Highlights:

• </c> Minnesota about 50 miles south of East Minnesota about 50 miles south of East Grand<00:20:03.280
• This is the city of Candyo, about 7 miles straight east of Wilmer.
• </c><00:24:30.320><c> of</c> uh about 7 milesi straight east of uh about 7 milesi straight east of Wilmer
• </c><00:41:16.560><c> of</c> development immediately to the east of development immediately to the east
• These lots hold uh east of 13th Street.

Bills: HF568 , HF433 , HF1689 , HF3135 , HF3137 , HF3145 , HF2887 , HF2819 , HF2802 , HF2664 , HF2267 , HF799 , HF800 , HF3049 , HF296 , HF580 , HF1438 , HF1237

Committee: House Capital Investment

Transcript Highlights:

• Arab and other Middle Eastern and North African businesses, abbreviated as MENA, face similar barriers
• But I've read that people, particularly from the Middle East and Asia, economically far outpace their
• I do not believe that is the case for individuals from the Middle East.
• Of Middle Eastern descent, I immigrated to the United States for education and became a citizen after
• Middle East is not in Europe, I don't think. I think it's in Asia Minor, right? All right. Yes.

Bills: HB2523 , HB2606 , HB2684 , HJM4012

Committee: House Technology, Economic Development, & Veterans

Keywords: community reinvestment, housing, local funding, urban development, economic revitalization, data protection, privacy, performance measures, reporting requirements, office of privacy, social disadvantage, business certification, state guidelines, economic equity, minority-owned businesses, combat veterans, support, military service, injury compensation, veteran affairs

Transcript Highlights:

• We were going to go to East Asia, and so that's where all of it is.
• All of this technology had migrated to East Asia starting in the 1990s.
• We would start that after the middle of 2026.
• That technology, also part of our company, has migrated to East Asia.
• Um, so if the geology just, uh, a few miles 344 east, um, I don't.

Bills: SB1757 , SB1758 , SB1898 , SB2050

Committee: House Environmental Regulation

Keywords: rock crushing, permits, air quality, environmental monitoring, aggregate production, seismicity, public meeting, land use, SB 1758, cement kiln, portland cement, aggregate production operation, aggregate quarry, semiconductor wafer manufacturing, chip fabrication, semiconductor plant, vibration, seismic disturbance, liability limitation, TCEQ

Summary: The committee first took up SB 2203, relating to certification of discovery issues in TCEQ contested cases referred to SOAH. The chair noted the House had already passed the companion HB 3249, then moved SB 2203 without amendments. The motion prevailed on a 5-0 vote, and the bill was reported favorably to the full House. The committee then heard SB 1898, which would prohibit the use of PFAS-containing firefighting foam for testing and training, while still allowing it in emergency firefighting. The sponsor described PFAS as “forever chemicals” and said the bill would protect firefighters, water supplies, and public health. Testimony in support came from Environment Texas, which cited contamination concerns and noted other states and federal actions restricting PFAS foams. No one testified against the bill, and after closing testimony the committee left SB 1898 pending. The remainder of the hearing focused on SB 1758, a Grayson County pilot program aimed at addressing potential conflicts between Global Wafers’ semiconductor wafer facility and a proposed Black Mountain Cement/aggregate operation. Supporters, including Global Wafers, Grayson County officials, and manufacturing groups, argued that vibration from mining or blasting could threaten a major national-security semiconductor investment and that an independent BEG study was needed to set safe parameters. Opponents from Black Mountain Cement and related industry groups argued the bill would improperly interfere with a lawful permitting process, pick winners and losers, and harm Texas’ pro-business climate; they also said they had already revised operations and removed blast mining. The discussion included extensive questioning about geology, vibration, the permitting timeline, and whether the issue was really about mining rather than the air permit. No vote was taken on SB 1758 in the portion provided.

Transcript Highlights:

• Ron Wilson, manager at East Green Acres Irrigation District, Post Falls, Idaho.
• Ron Wilson, East Green Acres Irrigation District.
• This picture here, as you can see, the footprint of East Green Acres.
• This picture here, as you can see, the footprint of East Green Acres.
• And right in the middle you see a state line.

Committee: House Resources and Conservation