Video & Transcript Research : 'SBA reforms'
Page 91 of 247
MN
Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session
Human Committee Meeting - 2025-04-09
Human Services Finance and Policy
Transcript Highlights:
- Line 468 is the Governor's recommendation on behavioral health fund reforms that is the same in the DE1
- 35, 41, and 42 are all from the governor's bill, and these are the behavioral health front payment reforms
- particularly challenging, and I'm pleased to see that your proposed budget bill includes responsible reforms
Bills:
HF2434
TX
Texas 89th Regular
Economic DevelopmentNote: This video has been edited to include the opening roll call. Video footage begins at 00m:32s. Apr 7th, 2025
Economic Development
Transcript Highlights:
- Of course, the Senate did pass those measures on my bill last week related to reforms in Chapters 380
- So we think it's time to end these programs and bring things back, combined with market reform in the
- is using taxpayer dollars to support an event hosted by a group that actively opposes gun safety reforms
Keywords:
hotel occupancy tax, municipal revenue, tax code, local government funding, Texas legislation, county taxation, economic development, hotel industry, local government, counties, taxation, tourism, workforce development, youth programs, employment, education, technical training, health physics, higher education, nuclear energy
Summary:
The Senate Economic Development Committee met to hear a series of bills and informational primers, with several resource witnesses from the Governor’s Office, the Texas Workforce Commission, and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. The chair opened by noting the death of Senator King’s son and asking members to keep the family in their prayers. Most bills were laid out and left pending subject to the call of the chair after brief author presentations and public testimony.
The committee heard several local hotel occupancy tax bills: SB 1553 for Kerr County, SB 1086 for Childress County, SB 1087 for Mason County, and SB 913 for Alpine. Supporters, including the Texas Hotel and Lodging Association and local officials, said the measures would allow counties or the city to use hotel tax revenue for tourism-related projects and local development. The committee also heard SB 1534, which would direct a study on health physics education and workforce needs in Texas; resource witnesses from TWC and THECB testified on the bill. All of these measures were left pending.
A major portion of the hearing focused on SB 1754, which would prohibit local tax abatements for renewable energy facilities selling power at wholesale, with an exception for certain battery storage tied to dispatchable generation. The bill drew strong support from witnesses who argued counties should not subsidize wind and solar projects that can harm neighboring landowners and that renewables already receive substantial federal support. Opponents from the solar and storage industry argued the bill would remove a voluntary local economic development tool, raise power prices, and discourage investment. Senators also debated landowner impacts, grid reliability, and whether the bill was the right policy tool; the bill was left pending.
The committee also heard SB 2322, a committee substitute related to the Jobs, Energy, Technology, and Innovation Act, which would exempt electric generation facilities from the program’s compelling-factor test so they can qualify for school tax limitation agreements. Supporters said the change would correct an unintended barrier for dispatchable generation, while Senator Johnson argued it would weaken the program’s purpose by subsidizing projects that would locate in Texas anyway. SB 1718 would add the NRA annual meeting to the major events reimbursement program; the NRA supported it, while gun violence prevention advocates opposed using state incentives for the organization. SB 2004 would add the Arlington Grand Prix to the major events program, and SB 2448 would create a rural workforce development grant program; both drew supportive testimony and were left pending. The committee also heard SB 1143, a substitute bill aimed at improving transparency and coordination in programs serving opportunity youth ages 14 to 24, with witnesses supporting better reporting and workforce alignment. At the end of the meeting, Senator Johnson moved that the committee stand in recess subject to the call of the chair.
US
US Federal 2025-2026 Regular Session
Hearings to examine the nominations of Troy Meink, of Virginia, to be Secretary of the Air Force, Michael Duffey, of Virginia, to be Under Secretary for Acquisition and Sustainment, Emil Michael, of Florida, to be Under Secretary for Research and Eng Mar 27th, 2025 at 08:30 am
Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Personnel
Transcript Highlights:
- on winning a war of attrition in a Chairman Wicker, for your leadership in advancing acquisition reform
- I also learned how to reform the Pentagon as a lead on the tail-to-tooth battle. budget initiative, which
- We've heard a lot about procurement reform and being more nimble.
Keywords:
Air Force modernization, fighter aircraft, autonomous systems, air superiority, national security, recapitalization
Summary:
The meeting primarily focused on military procurement and modernization, with significant discussions surrounding the Air Force's capabilities and strategic needs. Key topics included the urgent need for recapitalization of the Air Force's fighter squadrons, as well as the importance of integrating new technologies like autonomous systems to bolster military effectiveness. Several senators raised concerns about the current resources available to the Air National Guard and the potential loss of skilled service members if recapitalization plans are not swiftly developed. There were also discussions on the importance of maintaining air superiority in light of evolving threats, particularly from adversaries like China.
MN
Minnesota 2025 1st Special Session
Expanded college grant program, HF2090, considered in higher education committee 3/18/25
US
US Federal 2025-2026 Regular Session
Hearings to examine S.124, to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for disciplinary procedures for supervisors and managers at the Department of Veterans Affairs and to modify the procedures of personnel actions against employees of the Dep Mar 11th, 2025 at 09:30 am
Senate Veterans' Affairs
Transcript Highlights:
- I think the VA needs reform.
- we need to do as an organization, we are preparing the way so that we can rightly reorganize and reform
- We are going to follow the science, we are going to reform this agency to make sure that it is focused
Keywords:
Department of Veterans Affairs, disciplinary procedures, accountability, personnel actions, whistleblower protection, cancer, military, aircrew, veterans, health study, toxins, morbidity, mortality, service members, mental health, community care, accessibility, treatment programs, substance abuse, appointments
Summary:
During the meeting, various members engaged in extensive discussions surrounding 15 proposed bills related to veterans' affairs. Notably, concerns regarding recent VA workforce changes sparked debates, particularly about potential cuts and their implications for veterans' care and benefits. Chairman Moran emphasized the need for thoughtful reforms and coordination with stakeholders, urging responsible measures to prevent negatively impacting service delivery. The meeting highlighted a significant bipartisan effort to enhance veterans' access to essential health services, particularly in light of recent challenges faced by the VA workforce. Senator Blumenthal's assertions about the urgent plight of veterans due to cuts in personnel drew strong reactions, showcasing the deep concern among committee members regarding the current state of veteran services.
FL
Florida 2025 Regular Session
March 11, 2025 - 10:15 AM
Transcript Highlights:
- That was also at the time before we had developmental education reform.
- It's less than 10% or around 10% of our enrollment, because colleges did a lot of reform around 2013,
- Colleges did a lot of reform around 2013, 2014, to provide students with opportunities, especially straight
Summary:
The Higher Education Budget Subcommittee met to review funding models for the Florida College System and district workforce education programs, with an emphasis on how new dollars are allocated in the program fund and how performance and targeted funding are incorporated. Chancellor Hebda explained the Florida College System model, including base program funding, student success and pipeline funds, performance incentives for industry certifications, and the 2022 president-developed formula that weights enrollment, workforce enrollment, completions, small-college factors, and regional cost differences, plus a targeted funding floor for colleges below a minimum per-FTE level. Vice Chancellor Goodman then outlined the district workforce model, which uses lagged enrollment, program cost weights, local revenue offsets, small-district adjustments, and unmet-need calculations to distribute lump-sum appropriations to school districts offering workforce education.
The department also provided updates on several grant programs and funding delays. Goodman said the Workforce Development Incentive Grant, Pathways to Career Opportunities Grant, Graduation Alternative to Traditional Education Startup Grant, and teacher apprenticeship/mentor bonus programs all involve multi-year awards and often require reversions and reappropriations because projects are delayed, extended, or not fully obligated by year-end. She said the department is moving toward an electronic grants system and had already adjusted internal deadlines to speed awards, while acknowledging some reimbursement delays and explaining that mentor bonuses for teacher apprentices will not be paid until the first cohort reaches the statutory timing requirement.
Members asked about tracking whether CTE students work in their trained fields, how Xello is used to inform students about career pathways, how FTE is calculated, whether the funding formulas could encourage growth over quality, and how students with disabilities are counted in workforce funding. Questions also focused on tuition, enrollment trends, and the gap between college and university funding. The committee heard that tuition has remained flat for more than a decade, enrollment has rebounded from COVID and is projected to exceed pre-pandemic levels, and the college system’s funding per FTE varies widely. Valencia College President Kathleen Plinsky testified in support of the proposed formula and an additional $200 million for the Florida College System, saying Valencia is the second-largest college in the state but ranks last in per-FTE funding, which has made it difficult to recruit and retain faculty and admit qualified students in high-demand programs like nursing. The committee took no vote and adjourned after the presentations and questions.
US
US Federal 2025-2026 Regular Session
Hearings to examine the nomination of Jayanta Bhattacharya, of California, to be Director of the National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services. Mar 5th, 2025 at 09:00 am
Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- It confirmed, as NIH director, you'll be tasked with leading an agency that desperately needs reform.
- I think it's at the back of the minds of so many reform proposals.
- No matter what the budget is, I want to reform it in that direction.
Keywords:
NIH funding, healthcare research, chronic diseases, scientific integrity, public trust, pandemic response
Summary:
The meeting of the committee focused on various healthcare and scientific issues, with significant discussions surrounding the impact of recent administrative actions on the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and its research agenda. Senators expressed concerns over funding cuts and personnel reductions, particularly the reported termination of over 1,200 NIH staff members, which could jeopardize ongoing and future research projects. The session included testimonies on the importance of supporting early-stage researchers and restoring public trust in scientific institutions following pandemic-related controversies. Additionally, the potential for future healthcare management based on diverse scientific ideas was emphasized as crucial to tackle chronic diseases effectively.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- many members on this floor that are bringing bills forward. on behalf of our Texas teachers, truancy reform
- committees by different subject matter jurisdictions to consider. other available benefits, insurance reform
- before I call on Senator Perry I want I want you to know how important your 29-2 vote was on bail reform
Keywords:
teacher compensation, education funding, public school educators, teacher retention, teacher designation, lottery, gambling, internet gaming, mobile application, criminal offenses, aquifer, water management, Edwards Aquifer, sustainability, regulatory framework, SB 565, Texas Water Code, TCEQ, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, compliance agreement
MN
Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session
The State of Special Education in Minnesota Feb 16th, 2025
Minnesota Senate Floor Meeting
NH
New Hampshire 2026 Regular Session
House Commerce and Consumer Affairs (04/15/2026)
Commerce and Consumer Affairs
Transcript Highlights:
- So the coalition is broad, and it outlines reforms to rein in the use of prior authorization practices
- So the coalition is broad, and it outlines reforms to rein in the use of prior authorization practices
- <04:13:05.760>
So <04:13:06.000>we <04:13:06.159>need version of tort reform - So we need version of tort reform. So we need liability<04:13:07.040>
caps. - Insurance Department, meaningful reform Insurance Department, meaningful reform will<04:24:01.120
MN
Transcript Highlights:
- <01:17:05.720>
passed <01:17:06.120>a <01:17:06.280>PBM <01:17:06.880>reform - You know, in 2023 we passed a PBM reform bill.
- to make sure today to make real reforms to make sure that<01:46:05.040>
340B <01:46:06.480> - <01:48:03.280>
that <01:48:03.480>ensure <01:48:03.960>that we make the reforms - that ensure that we make the reforms that ensure that these<01:48:04.360>
dollars <01:48:04.840
MN
Transcript Highlights:
- An analysis by our partners at Education Reform Now estimates there are about 1 million taxpayers in
- An analysis by our partners at Education Reform Now estimates there are about 1 million taxpayers in
- > Education An analysis by our partners at Education An analysis by our partners at Education Reform
- Estimates from the Education Reform Network suggest that if just 30% of Minnesota tax filers eligible
- Estimates from the Education<00:34:50.720>
Reform <00:34:51.200>Network <00:34:51.679>
MS
Mississippi 2026 Regular Session
MS House Floor - 5 March, 2026; 10:00 AM
Mississippi House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- This is a bill that takes our really reforms our advantage jobs act, um, and kind of matches those up
- This is a bill that that takes our uh<00:27:44.240>
really <00:27:44.480>reforms <00:27: - our advantage jobs uh uh really reforms our advantage jobs uh act<00:27:47.039>
um <00:27:47.520 - We can't get any movement on the other side on any alcohol reform much. for y'all's hard work on this
- the other side on any alcohol reform the other side on any alcohol reform much. much. much.
Summary:
The House convened with prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, then confirmed a quorum, dispensed with the journal reading, and moved into the calendar. Members also introduced several visitors and groups in the galleries, including AFL-CIO representatives, Volunteer Mississippi, the Mississippi Alliance of Nonprofits and Philanthropy, New England College students on a civil rights tour, and other guests and constituents. The chamber then proceeded through a series of motions to reconsider, table, or advance bills on the calendar.
On the appropriations calendar, the House passed several Senate bills after adopting strike-off or amendment language. Senate Bill 2896, described as a potential trooper pay raise measure, was amended and passed 128-0. Senate Bill 2898 increased the MIMA disaster assistance trust fund from $20 million to $40 million and passed 128-0, and Senate Bill 2924 authorized spending from that fund and passed 119-0. Other appropriations measures included Senate Bill 2825 on the healthcare industry zone act, Senate Bill 2832 extending a repealer for the short-line railroad tax credit, Senate Bill 2834 on motor vehicle specialty tags, Senate Bill 2835 allowing banks to use third-party vendors to check liens, and Senate Bill 2846 on conduit bonds; each was explained as largely conforming to House language or adding reverse repealers, and each passed overwhelmingly.
The Ways and Means calendar included Senate Bill 2850, which removed a reverse repealer and updated the Advantage Jobs Act to align incentives with prior commitments and future tax changes; it passed 119-0. Senate Bill 2873 expanded administrative forfeiture procedures to products on the cigarette and ends registry and passed 117-1. Senate Bill 2882 clarified that tax assessors cannot require settlement statements for homestead exemptions and passed 118-0. Senate Bill 3111, which would exempt up to 10 cases of wine donated annually to nonprofits from alcohol taxes, drew some concern and passed 97-13 after a reverse repealer was added. Senate Bill 316 added energy storage facilities such as batteries to the definition of alternative energy for local ad valorem tax purposes and passed 114-1. Senate Bill 3124 revised the Pregnancy Resource Act to allow individuals as well as businesses to participate in the tax credit, adjust reporting and in-state requirements, and incorporate House language; the transcript cuts off before the final vote on that bill.
MN
Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session
House Health Finance and Policy Committee 2/23/26
Health Finance and Policy
Transcript Highlights:
- There was a passage of a reform that guaranteed access to these practitioners and supported their right
- <00:21:07.679>
These <00:21:08.000>are Legal Reform Project. - These are Legal Reform Project.
- <00:21:39.840>
that Uh there was a passage of a reform that Uh there was a passage of a reform - Thus, some of our bills on the table for today are reformational, so that number is still coming.
Keywords:
massage therapy, Asian bodywork therapy, massage therapist, Asian bodywork therapist, licensure, professional licensing, health occupations, Department of Health, commissioner of health, advisory council, protected title, unlicensed practice, scope of practice, consumer protection, background check, professional liability insurance, continuing education, credentialing examination, state preemption, municipal regulation
MN
Minnesota 2025 1st Special Session
Committee on Energy, Utilities, Environment and Climate - 03/26/25
Energy, Utilities, Environment, and Climate
Transcript Highlights:
- I know you will hear a lot about budgets, reforms, cuts, but I am here to speak on behalf of the people
- Thank you. about budgets, reforms, cuts, but I am about budgets, reforms, cuts, but I am here<01:06:58.960
- Um, and you achieved those fairly substantial and significant reforms both in the existing solar gardens
- Um, and you achieved those fairly substantial and significant reforms both in the existing solar gardens
- Um, and you achieved those fairly substantial and significant reforms both in the existing solar gardens
MN
Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session
House Children and Families Finance and Policy Committee 3/18/25
Children and Families Finance and Policy
Transcript Highlights:
- Nationally and in Minnesota, we have seen that change or reform is expensive, taxing on the workforce
- When reform efforts are implemented, finances are examined in the context of that one specific change
- An aspect is that if that funding is eliminated or repurposed, the reform slowly drifts away.
- When reform efforts are implemented, finances are examined in the context of that one specific change
- An aspect is that if that funding is eliminated or repurposed, the reform slowly drifts away.
Keywords:
child welfare, fiscal analysis, third-party consultant, program evaluation, Minnesota, HF776, Minnesota Family Assets for Independence Initiative, family assets for independence, FAI, asset-building, matched savings, financial literacy, family savings, economic mobility, children youth and families, general fund appropriation, family support, low-income families, financial stability, budget bill
HI
Hawaii 2025 Regular Session
JHA Public Hearing - Wed Mar 12, 2025 @ 2:00 PM HST
Judiciary & Hawaiian Affairs
Transcript Highlights:
- She said she is all for campaign reform and total public funding of campaigns, but she does not see this
- <00:23:24.799>
all <00:23:25.039>for <00:23:25.559>campaign <00:23:26.080>reform - <00:23:26.559>
I wrong I'm all for campaign reform I wrong I'm all for campaign reform I campaigned - I just, again, as a supporter of over 28 years for this measure, this is again the kind of reform that
- measure this is again the kind of Reform measure this is again the kind of Reform that<01:49:14.599
Summary:
The House Committee on Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs met on March 12, 2025, and heard testimony on several election-related and governance measures. On SB 176, relating to recounts, the Office of Elections supported clarifying that recount triggers should be based on the final Election Day report rather than the 6:00 a.m. next-day report, citing a 2022 recount example. The chair noted 3 testimonies in support, 42 in opposition, and 1 comment. On SB 1337, relating to the Stadium Authority, the authority supported changing quorum rules so only voting members count, explaining that the current interpretation makes it difficult to conduct business; written testimony from DBEDT was also received. On SB 289, relating to ethics administrative fines, the Ethics Commission supported uniform procedures to resolve uncontested enforcement matters more quickly while preserving due process; written support was also noted.
The committee then heard SB 311, a proposed constitutional amendment on freedom of speech and money in elections. Supporters, including Community Alliance on Prisons, Our Revolution Hawaii, Pride at Work Hawaii, Common Cause Hawaii, and others, argued that money in politics distorts democracy and that the amendment would help prevent wealthy interests from buying influence. Opponents, including the Hawaii Christian Coalition and individual testifiers, argued that changing the constitution was too serious, that the proposal should be handled by ordinary legislation instead, and that the measure could create legal conflict. Deputy Attorney General Candace Park said the bill would only matter if key federal cases such as Buckley and Citizens United were overturned, and the chair thanked her for the legal input.
The committee also heard SB 780, relating to election ballot disqualification, which would exclude candidates disqualified by constitutional or statutory provisions and create procedures for challenges. Opposition testimony said the bill would undermine voter choice, burden courts and election officials, and invite misuse; the Hawaii Christian Coalition echoed those concerns. Members raised questions about whether the measure would apply only to state and county offices, and the Attorney General’s office said it would follow up. Finally, on SB 1030, relating to election intimidation, supporters said firearms should not be brought near polling places or ballot drop boxes, while opponents argued the bill was unnecessary and could affect lawful possession; the committee received 12 testimonies, with 39 in support. The committee then began SB 1225, a proposed constitutional amendment changing the vote threshold for legislative amendments to a majority of votes tallied, excluding blanks, spoiled ballots, and overvotes; testimony in support was heard from the LGBTQ+ Commission and others, and the discussion was still underway when the excerpt ended.
MN
Minnesota 2025 1st Special Session
House Health Finance and Policy Committee 3/12/25
Health Finance and Policy
Transcript Highlights:
- long-term solution, this bill is a great first step toward that end until a more comprehensive PBM reform
- Once a local pharmacy like us closes, we won't be back until PBM reform is achieved.
- be<00:52:04.160>
back <00:52:04.559>until <00:52:04.880>PBM <00:52:05.440>reform - <00:52:05.920>
is <00:52:06.319>achieved <00:52:07.319>our be back until PBM reform - is achieved our be back until PBM reform is achieved our Health<00:52:07.880>
Care <00:52:08.119
KY
Kentucky 2025 Regular Session
House Standing Committee on Postsecondary Education (2-4-25)
Transcript Highlights:
- Now, when Governor Patton launched his reform in postsecondary education years and years ago, he had
- Now, when Governor Patton launched launched launched his<00:09:21.800>
reform <00:09:22.280> - in<00:09:22.360>
postsecondary <00:09:22.920>education his reform in postsecondary - education his reform in postsecondary education years<00:09:23.920>
and <00:09:24.040>years - First of all, it's in the 1997 House Bill 1 post-secondary reform that defined the research institutions
Summary:
The House Postsecondary Education Committee held its first-ever meeting and first meeting of the session, with Chairman Tipton outlining committee procedures, attendance rules, and the process for submitting committee substitutes. After a roll call confirmed full attendance, the committee heard a presentation from Senator David Givens on the history and purpose of Kentucky’s performance-based funding model for postsecondary education. Givens said the model was created to replace an older “shares” approach that distributed funds based largely on prior-year allocations, and argued the new system better aligns funding with student success and the state’s long-term educational attainment goals.
Council for Postsecondary Education President Aaron Thompson and CPE staff then explained the model in more detail. They said the system was designed to address long-standing funding disparities among institutions, reward outcomes such as degrees, credit-hour progression, and completion in high-demand fields, and support the state’s “60 by 30” goal of having 60% of Kentuckians hold a postsecondary credential by 2030. Thompson said Kentucky is now at 56.2% attainment, above the national average, and highlighted gains in graduation and retention rates, lower student borrowing, and improved completion outcomes. He also emphasized that the model is part of a broader strategy that includes affordability, adult learners, low-income students, and wrap-around support services.
CPE staff described the work group process that developed and periodically revises the model, noting that the General Assembly created the framework in House Bill 303 and later enacted Senate Bill 153 and Senate Bill 191 to codify changes. They explained that in 2016 the legislature carved out about 5% of institutional budgets, roughly $43 million, to be redistributed through the new model, and that the model has been reviewed every three years with changes made each time. Recent revisions included increasing the student-success weight, adding a premium for low-income students, creating a premium for adult learners, and redefining underrepresented students as first-generation college students. No votes were taken at this meeting, and the committee adjourned after the informational presentation and discussion.
MA
Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session
Senate Session (Full Formal with Calendar) Jun 21st, 2026 at 12:00 pm
Massachusetts Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- As has been said a number of times on a whole host of bills, the Senate has taken up is the reform of
- As has been said a number of times on a whole host of bills, the Senate has taken up, the reform of the
Summary:
The Senate opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and a ceremonial welcome for the Duxbury Bay Maritime School crew team, which was congratulated for winning the 2025 Massachusetts Public School Rowing Association spring championship. The chamber also adopted several congratulatory resolutions honoring Eagle Scouts Henry Skolsky, Gregory de Rochman, Colin Bauker, and Gabriel Bennett.
The Senate then took up and passed two sick leave bank bills for Massachusetts Department of Transportation employees: House No. 4104 for Daniel Yender and House No. 4161 for Mark Kratman. It also ordered a series of other calendar items to third reading without debate. The chamber later considered Senate No. 2550, the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act, with Senator Preen explaining that the bill would align Massachusetts with other states, reduce forum shopping, and better protect left-behind parents; the bill was amended by Ways and Means, ordered to a third reading, and passed to be engrossed by a roll call vote of 39-0.
The Senate next took up Senate No. 2551, the Debt Collection Fairness Act. Senator Eldridge described provisions to raise garnishment protections, lower post-judgment interest rates, prohibit imprisonment for consumer debt, and shorten the statute of limitations on debt collection, while noting support from consumer advocates and the Attorney General. After adopting a technical Ways and Means amendment, the Senate ordered the bill to a third reading and passed it to be engrossed by roll call vote. The chamber also adopted committee reports placing Senate Bills 137 and 1034 on the Orders of the Day and advanced a Ways and Means-recommended substitute draft for a bill on police interactions with people with autism spectrum disorder. The session adjourned in memory of Mark Sullivan.