Transcript Highlights:

• Current law does not carry an enhanced penalty for manslaughter when it involves law enforcement.
• many of us, I think, over the last few years, we could never reconcile why not just the degree of penalty
• We have strengthened enforcement and penalties.
• And one of the ways that they feel it's been happening lately, and once again, the purpose of the bill
• First, I'd like to apologize to everybody for all of the amendments that have been filed.

Summary: The Senate convened with an opening prayer, pledge, and several recognitions, including visiting student groups, chambers of commerce, and apprenticeship participants. Senators also observed a moment of silence for a fallen Walton County deputy and later for the late John Pasadoma. The chamber then moved through a long third-reading calendar and special order calendar, with most bills passing overwhelmingly and several amendments adopted along the way. Among the major measures, SB 234 on criminal offenses against law enforcement officers passed 37-0 after debate and an amendment clarifying “good faith” in an officer’s duties; SB 7020 on open government and cybersecurity information passed 37-0; SM 1488 urging Congress to create a U.S. sovereign wealth fund was adopted by voice vote; SB 944 reducing insurance overpayment claim deadlines for psychologists passed 37-0; SB 878 expanding misdemeanor probation treatment provisions to controlled substances passed 36-1; SB 538, the state court system package, passed 37-0; SB 480 on nonprofit agricultural organization medical benefit plans passed 32-4; SB 472 on correctional-facility education credit for licensure passed 37-0; and SB 56 on geoengineering and weather modification passed 28-9 after extensive debate about enforcement, federal preemption, and the bill’s purpose. Later, the Senate passed CS/HB 421 on peer support for first responders 37-0 after substituting the House companion, and SB 164 on vessel accountability advanced with a technical amendment. SB 166 on administrative efficiency in public schools drew the most extended debate and multiple amendments; it changes testing, promotion, teacher evaluation, certification, and facilities rules, and passed 37-0. The chamber also passed SB 282 on warranty association financial requirements 36-0, SB 316 creating series LLCs 35-1, and SB 384 on annexing state-owned lands 36-0. At the end of the day, the Senate waived rules to immediately certify all passed bills to the House, received budget schedule guidance from Appropriations Chair Hooper for SB 2500 and SB 2502, and adjourned until April 9.

Transcript Highlights:

• So this bill that I'm introducing is House File 16, and in essence what it does is it mandates illegal
• Violent crime penalties are different.
• The penalty, we can get into that later.
• Violent crime penalties are different.
• The penalty, we can get into that later.

Keywords: 1183, house

Summary: House Republicans held a press event to announce two priority bills focused on immigration and state spending. Rep. Isaac Schultz said his bill, House File 10, would stop taxpayer funding for people in Minnesota illegally, including through programs such as Northstar Promise, MinnesotaCare, medical assistance, and legal services. He framed the proposal as a way to redirect limited state resources to Minnesota families, veterans, people with disabilities, the homeless, and infrastructure needs, and said it could save more than $100 million, with some estimates discussed during debate reaching about $200 million for MinnesotaCare alone. Rep. Max Rymer introduced House File 16, which would require reporting to ICE or other federal immigration authorities when an undocumented immigrant is suspected of committing a violent crime, and would bar local governments from withholding information from federal authorities. He said the bill is intended to end sanctuary-city practices and improve public safety. Both lawmakers argued that the measures are narrow, targeted at violent offenders, and consistent with cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. They also said the bills respond to voter concerns about illegal immigration and rising costs. During questions, the members said the state-funding bill is aimed at state dollars, while the reporting bill complements federal law by addressing local noncooperation. They discussed concerns about eligibility tracking and said current programs do not provide enough data on how many undocumented people receive benefits. Schultz cited a family in his district that lost MinnesotaCare after an income change as an example of what he sees as unfair treatment compared with benefits for undocumented immigrants. No votes were taken at the event; the lawmakers said these are the first of several bills they plan to advance this session.

Transcript Highlights:

• Shout out to Representative Bracy Davis. and Representative Driskell, who have tried to file the Crown
• That was the only decrease in penalties.
• Again, I understand in Miami-Dade County, We cannot file our own local bills.
• I filed an amendment to the amendment to the amendment.
• >> Your amendment to the Weinberger amendment was late filed.

Bills: HB 1520 , HB 1545 , HJR 110 , HJR 203 , HB 245 , HB 1465 , HB 1482 , HB 294 , HB 793 , HB 809 , HB 3928 , HB 334 , HB 2037 , HB 1973 , HB 285 , HB 4341 , HB 4264 , HB 1043 , HB 837 , HB 1234 , HB 1193 , HB 1194 , HB 1646 , HB 1729 , HB 2498 , HB 1314 , HB 2295 , HB 1353 , HB 1531 , HB 1988 , HB 5398 , HB 3960 , HB 3923 , HB 1407 , HB 1764 , HB 2221 , HB 2214 , HB 2517 , HB 2518 , HB 2213 , HB 5008 , HB 5092 , HB 3421 , HB 3663 , HB 3748 , HB 3800 , HB 3756 , HB 2613 , HB 3782 , HB 5246 , HB 4344 , HB 4044 , HB 4066 , HB 2702 , HB 2807 , HB 2869 , HB 2898 , HB 3181 , HB 3250 , HB 4153 , HB 2091 , HB 2115 , HB 2542 , HB 2768 , HB 3349 , HB 3352 , HB 4406 , HB 1593 , HB 1899 , HB 3133 , HB 4432 , HB 4960 , HB 3214 , HB 3915 , HB 3508 , HB 2145 , SB 304 , SB 608 , SB 2312 , SB 494 , SB 530 , HB 45 , HB 2520 , HB 35 , HB 47 , HB 318 , HB 349 , HB 554 , HB 1359 , HB 1373 , HB 2254 , HB 2259 , HB 2853 , HB 3073 , HB 3088 , HB 353 , HB 355 , HB 786 , HB 762 , HB 705 , HB 932 , HB 849 , HB 1119 , HB 3041 , HB 713 , HB 3104 , HB 3970 , HB 4042 , HB 4490 , HB 1731 , HB 2607 , HB 3689 , HB 1788 , HB 1612 , HB 138 , HB 15 , HB 1971 , HB 1338 , HB 2989 , HB 267 , HB 1201 , HB 2954 , HB 5265 , HB 1804 , HB 5061 , HB 1520 , HB 1545 , HJR 110 , HJR 203 , HB 1887 , HB 1914 , HB 2402 , HB 2306 , HB 1809 , HB 2350 , HB 3000 , HB 3237 , HB 3326 , HB 3211 , HB 1056 , HB 2081 , HB 2187 , HB 3092 , HB 3308 , HB 3526 , HB 3750 , HB 3527 , HB 4219 , HB 4230 , HB 4290 , HB 5238 , HB 4804 , HB 4749 , HB 245 , HB 1465 , HB 1482 , HB 294 , HB 793 , HB 809 , HB 3928 , HB 334 , HB 2037 , HB 1973 , HB 285 , HB 4341 , HB 4264 , HB 1043 , HB 837 , HB 1234 , HB 1193 , HB 1194 , HB 1646 , HB 1729 , HB 2498 , HB 1314 , HB 2295 , HB 1353 , HB 1531 , HB 1988 , HB 5398 , HB 3960 , HB 3923 , HB 1407 , HB 1764 , HB 2221 , HB 2214 , HB 2517 , HB 2518 , HB 2213 , HB 5008 , HB 5092 , HB 3421 , HB 3663 , HB 3748 , HB 3800 , HB 3756 , HB 2613 , HB 3782 , HB 5246 , HB 4344 , HB 4044 , HB 4066 , HB 2702 , HB 2807 , HB 2869 , HB 2898 , HB 3181 , HB 3250 , HB 4153 , HB 2091 , HB 2115 , HB 2542 , HB 2768 , HB 3349 , HB 3352 , HB 4406 , HB 1593 , HB 1899 , HB 3133 , HB 4432 , HB 4960 , HB 3214 , HB 3915 , HB 3508 , HB 2145 , HCR 6 , HCR 12 , HCR 34 , HCR 50 , HCR 55 , HCR 58 , HCR 70 , HCR 71 , HCR 72 , HCR 74 , HCR 75 , HCR 78 , HCR 80 , HCR 93 , HCR 100 , HCR 107 , HCR 116 , HCR 117 , HCR 90

Keywords: Angelina and Neches River Authority, river authority, Sunset Advisory Commission, Texas Sunset Act, Special District Local Laws Code, local government, natural resources, board of directors, director training, board governance, public testimony, open meetings, public information, conflict of interest, ethics, complaint system, general manager, board president, staggered terms, removal of director

Summary: The Florida House considered multiple bills on Day 59 of the legislative session. Key legislation included CS for HB 1103 on developmental disabilities services, which expanded a pilot program statewide while maintaining current contracts. CS for SB 1730 addressed affordable housing with amendments protecting historic districts. CS for HB 443 on charter schools allowed stricter codes of conduct and virtual student athletic participation. CS for HB 209 prohibited golf courses and hotels in state parks. Lucy's Law (CS for HB 289) increased boating safety penalties and education requirements. CS for HB 1205 significantly restricted citizen ballot initiatives by requiring petition circulator registration, limiting volunteer collections to 25 signatures, adding financial impact statements, and imposing new penalties. The House also passed bills on animal cruelty databases, waste incineration restrictions, and spectrum alerts for individuals with developmental disabilities.

Transcript Highlights:

• And I will move House File 2614 before the committee.
• Chair and So, House File 2614, Mr.
• </c> I'm here today in support of House File 2614.
• </c><00:47:17.160><c> 2614</c> that House File 2614 that House File 2614 be<00:47:20.120><c> approved
• And I would move House<01:08:22.480><c> File</c><01:08:22.799><c> 3588</c> House File 3588 House File

Bills: HF2614 , HF3587 , HF3589 , HF3588

Committee: House Elections Finance and Government Operations

Keywords: homeowners associations, local government, building permits, housing policy, residential development, voter access, polling place, elections, ballot, unexpected needs, election judge, public information, political parties, transparency, 1183, house

Transcript Highlights:

• Assembly Member Jackson with file item number two, AB 1584.
• It was issued late afternoon yesterday.
• I filed a First Amendment lawsuit, and the county attorney immediately backed down.
• And it strengthens enforcement by increasing penalties for large sellers...
• For low-income parents, that penalty can be self-defeating.

Committee: House Judiciary

Keywords: 988, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• It started moving too late. So hopefully we can get it across this way. Thank you so much, Mr.
• It started moving too late. So hopefully we can get it across this way. Thank you so much, Mr.
• again, it's very technical, and I want to make sure that the folks who are here and folks who are filing
• The worst offenders appeared during late morning and early afternoon, when children are moving between
• As always, I'm eager to get this feedback and file more amendments to make this bill even better.

Bills: S0382 , S0628 , S0654 , S0696 , S0880

Committee: Senate Appropriations Committee on Transportation, Tourism, and Economic Development

Keywords: transportation facility designations, road naming, highway designation, honorary designation, memorial highway, memorial boulevard, memorial interchange, airport naming, FDOT markers, Florida Department of Transportation, State Road 80, SR 80, U.S. 90, U.S. 41, A1A, Turnpike interchange, Kissimmee Park Road, Bobby Bowden, Donald Trump Highway, President Donald J. Trump Highway

Summary: The Appropriations Committee on Transportation, Tourism, and Economic Development met with a quorum and considered five bills, all of which were reported favorably. First, SB 628 designated a portion of South Navy Boulevard in Pensacola as “Warrior Sacrifice Way” to honor Ensign Joshua Watson, Petty Officer Muhammad Hatham, and Cameron Walters, who were killed in the 2019 Naval Air Station Pensacola attack. Senators spoke in support, emphasizing remembrance and support for the families. The committee then heard CS/SB 382 on electric bicycles and scooters. The bill would require riders on shared pathways to yield to pedestrians, sound an audible signal before passing, and limit speed near pedestrians, while creating an e-bike safety task force and reporting requirements. Law enforcement, local officials, and school board representatives supported the bill and described safety concerns and data gaps, while several senators raised questions about enforcement and asked that e-scooters be addressed more explicitly. The bill was reported favorably. Members also approved SB 880, creating a Miami Northwestern Alumni Association specialty license plate to fund scholarships and school programs, and SB 696, which allows online trademark registration applications and updates Florida’s trademark classification and verification procedures. Finally, the committee took up CS/CS/SB 654 on traffic infraction enforcement cameras for red light, school zone speeding, and school bus violations. The bill and an amendment added guardrails on data use, hearings, reporting, signage, and contract limits; senators raised concerns about privacy, surveillance, and school zone enforcement, and a Hillsborough County sheriff’s representative testified that all-day school zone enforcement has improved safety. All measures were reported favorably, and the committee adjourned after recording additional affirmative votes on SB 628 from Senators Martin and Smith.

Transcript Highlights:

• Canales, what's the penalty scale in this?
• Is there a thought of a civil penalty instead of a criminal penalty?
• And so I think that we could achieve that with civil penalties as well.
• That seems, I'm sorry, it's 5.559E in the filed version.
• Chairman, thank you for filing this bill and recognizing the need for this new legislation.

Committee: House Environmental Regulation

Summary: The committee first heard House Bill 1904, which would classify intentionally released helium balloons as litter and create criminal penalties for balloon releases. The author and supportive witnesses argued that balloon releases harm wildlife, livestock, waterways, and infrastructure, and that the bill would close a loophole in current litter law. Several members questioned whether criminal penalties were appropriate, and the author said he was willing to work toward civil penalties and fines instead. No vote was taken, and HB 1904 was left pending. The committee then took up several pending bills and reported them favorably to the full House, including HB 3249, HB 3866, HB 4112, HB 1768, HB 1499, HB 573, and HB 464. These measures dealt with topics such as TCEQ contested-case procedures, outdoor storage containers, high-level radioactive waste, concrete plant permitting and grants, unannounced concrete batch plant inspections, and a scrap tire grant program. Most were adopted with substitutes and passed on recorded votes, generally with unanimous or near-unanimous support. A major portion of the meeting focused on HB 3997, which would create expedited permitting timelines for LNG facilities and related wastewater permits. Industry witnesses said the bill would provide certainty for multibillion-dollar projects without eliminating public participation, while environmental groups opposed parts of the bill that they said could limit contested-case participation and be unrealistic for SOAH timelines. TCEQ staff described the current wastewater permitting process and said some of the bill’s timing provisions could be workable, especially with an expedited fee. The bill was left pending after the author said he would continue working on committee substitute language. The committee also heard HB 1237 on extending the renewal window for expired TCEQ occupational water licenses, and HB 4519, a TERP consolidation bill that would combine several clean transportation grant programs into fewer programs. HB 1237 was left pending without testimony, while HB 4519 drew broad support from environmental and industry witnesses who favored simplifying the program, though some asked for stronger emphasis on particulate matter and hydrogen funding. The committee withdrew the substitute on HB 4519 and left it pending. Finally, HB 5033, which would eliminate the motor vehicle emissions inspection and maintenance program if federal authority changes, drew opposition from environmental and inspection-industry witnesses who warned it would weaken air-quality protections and could remove an important enforcement tool. The author said the bill was intended as a trigger mechanism and would be refined, and HB 5033 was left pending. The committee also heard HB 1227 on municipal solid-waste franchise fees and private-provider access; the author said he would bring a substitute after hearing concerns from cities, and the bill was left pending.

Transcript Highlights:

• That's a great question, and we've seen many headlines lately.
• This was not late added.
• Vague standards combined with pre-adjudication penalties create a dangerous framework.
• Combined with pre-adjudication penalties, create a dangerous framework.
• So no, don't let it be too late. Wear something bright and just let's have some fun.

Summary: The House opened with prayer, a moment of silence for former member Chester Clem, the Pledge of Allegiance, and quorum confirmation. Members then adopted the special order report for the day and approved a Rules and Ethics Committee report amending House Rule 15.3 to allow fundraising under certain circumstances during extended or special sessions. The chamber then took up several bills. HB 1405 on a statewide project for missing persons with special needs passed unanimously. CS/CS/CS/SB 290, the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services bill, passed 94-10 after debate focused on conservation land surplus procedures and agricultural use of state lands. CS/CS/CS/HB 905, the “Fire Act” on foreign influence, foreign gifts, critical infrastructure, sister city agreements, and related restrictions, passed 80-20 after the House adopted an amendment adding a prohibition on certain surrogacy contracts involving citizens or residents of foreign countries of concern. CS/CS/HB 1197, dealing with information technology procurement and contracting, passed 109-0. HB 1103 on local administration of vessel restrictions passed unanimously. The House also debated CS/CS/CS/HB 399 on land use and development regulations. Supporters said it would limit development fees, standardize compatibility rules, allow manufactured homes in RV parks, and lower voting thresholds for comprehensive plan changes to address housing affordability; opponents argued it would preempt local control, weaken voter-approved urban boundary protections, and risk conservation lands. An amendment to preserve Orange County’s boundary rules failed, while a technical amendment on manufactured homes passed. The bill then passed 71-38. The House also passed several local bills, including measures for the Pace Fire Rescue District, Avalon Beach/Mulat Fire Protection District, East Point Water and Sewer District, Fellsmere Water Control District, and Headwaters Water Control District, with votes ranging from 83-27 to unanimous approval. The transcript also included farewell remarks from Representative Angie Nixon before the House returned to remaining business.

Transcript Highlights:

• The bill also establishes stricter penalties for individuals who traffic.
• The bill also establishes stricter penalties for individuals who traffic.
• The bill also establishes stricter penalties for individuals who traffic.
• Thank you, Madam Chair, Vicki, thank you for being here and for waiting for the late start time.
• But my understanding is this is just a civil penalty at this point in time.

Summary: The Senate Judiciary and Elections Committee heard and advanced several House bills dealing with criminal law, victims’ rights, and court fees. HB 2131 would remove the financial-gain requirement from weapons and explosives trafficking and make trafficking three or more weapons or explosives in one offense ineligible for probation, pardon, commutation, or early release until the sentence is served; it passed 6-1. HB 2132 lowered the fentanyl trafficking threshold from 200 grams to 100 grams and adjusted related sentencing language; supporters said it would help law enforcement and prosecutors, while opponents argued it would sweep in heavy users and lacked data on current enforcement; it passed 4-3. HB 2223 requires sex offenders seeking a name change to notify prosecutors and victims, and to register under the new name if granted; it passed 6-1. The committee also passed HB 2411, which creates the crime of coerced abortion for secretly or forcibly administering an abortion-inducing drug with intent to cause an abortion, as a class 2 felony. Supporters described cases of covert or forced abortion drug use and said existing laws do not clearly cover situations where the drug is given but no death occurs; opponents argued current assault, manslaughter, homicide, and food-contamination statutes already address the conduct and that the bill is unnecessary. HB 2043, which adds unborn children to the felony-murder statute, also passed 4-3 after testimony from prosecutors and advocates on both sides; supporters called it a cleanup measure, while opponents warned it advances fetal personhood and could have broader reproductive-health consequences. HB 2046, requiring victims to be notified of pre-hearings in probation review proceedings for certain sex offenders, passed unanimously after emotional testimony from a victim’s family and county prosecutors. The committee then approved HB 2666, which increases penalties for sexual extortion involving 15-, 16-, and 17-year-olds when the offender is an adult and knew or should have known the victim’s age. Finally, HB 2265, which eliminates court-imposed fees and assessments on criminal defendants for public defense, jury trials, and appeals, passed 7-0 despite county opposition over lost revenue and shifting costs to taxpayers. The last bill, HB 2133, would require commercial websites hosting sexual material to verify the age and consent of depicted persons, retain records, and treat synthetic depictions like AI-generated images similarly to existing revenge-porn laws; it drew support from adult-industry representatives on some implementation issues but also significant constitutional and privacy concerns, and the committee adopted an amendment before passing the bill as amended.

Transcript Highlights:

• Like if you are late on a sue you.
• </c> if it's if it was timely filed if it's if it was timely filed initially. initially. initially.
• </c> a new foreclosure action will be filed a new foreclosure action will be filed with<00:30:12.320>
• </c><01:13:23.920><c> When</c> be diagnosed at late stages. When be diagnosed at late stages.
• <c> for</c> penalty oversight and penalties for penalty oversight and penalties for interactions<02:02

Bills: HB20 , HB2612 , HB2404 , HB2459 , HB2194 , HB1880 , HB2284 , HB1969 , HB2458 , HB1546 , HB2161 , HB1721 , HB1641 , HB2137 , HB1782 , HB2360 , HB1965 , HB1897 , HB1513

Committee: House Consumer Protection & Commerce

Keywords: lava insurance, homeowners, insurance market, subsidy, Hawaii, mortgage, debt, secured transactions, real property, Hawaii Revised Statutes, cooperative associations, electric utility cooperatives, agricultural cooperatives, mutual help, food innovation, agribusiness, food safety, market access, branding, economic diversification

Summary: The committee heard testimony on HB 20, which would create a lava zone insurance subsidy/fund. The Insurance Division opposed the bill, arguing that lava zones 1 and 2 are the highest-risk areas, that a subsidy would not reduce the underlying risk or loss costs, that it could invite similar subsidy requests for other hazards, and that the bill may conflict with HICV by diverting funds from the CRF. Members discussed the lack of authorized homeowners insurance in those lava zones, the role of HPIA and the surplus market, and the difference between the proposed lava-zone subsidy and the Hawaii Hurricane Relief Fund. The chair noted 37 submitted testimonies in support and one in opposition, and the committee then moved on without taking a vote on HB 20 in the portion provided. The committee then took up HB 2612, relating to mortgages, which would clarify that a mortgage does not exist independently of the debt it secures and is not independently enforceable from that debt. The Hawaii Credit Union League and Hawaii Financial Services Association opposed the bill, while several individuals testified in support, arguing it would restore Hawaii’s long-standing lien-state rule and prevent so-called “zombie mortgages” after the Hawaii Supreme Court’s White decision. Supporters said the bill would protect borrowers from delayed foreclosures and predatory lending practices, while opponents and the Insurance Division emphasized that foreclosure actions still require proof of standing and possession of the note, and that lenders generally pursue foreclosure without seeking deficiency judgments. Committee members questioned the Insurance Division about how the current market works, whether lenders could wait out the statute of limitations and then foreclose only on the mortgage, and whether equitable tolling or later defaults could allow refiling. The division said it is still trying to attract authorized insurers back into the lava-zone market, but has seen little progress. No vote or final action on HB 2612 was taken in the excerpt provided.

Transcript Highlights:

• </c> their lease, $100 million in penalties their lease, $100 million in penalties to<00:16:06.800><c
• We now have House File 3396 as amended.
• </c> responsibilities and there are penalties responsibilities and there are penalties and<01:28:31.199
• House File 3817, Anderson P., bonus depreciation. House File 3815. >> Was that R. Anderson? Okay.
• House File 38 deduction changes.

Bills: HF3396

Committee: House Taxes

Keywords: property tax, task force, assessment, state revenue, local government, 1183, house

Transcript Highlights:

• This little RS deals with a subject that's been talked about a lot lately, and there is actually a competing
• There's no increase in the penalty here.
• There's no increase in the penalty here.
• Ultimately, it's going to be a decision for the court, filed through motion, where the judge would make
• But I don't have any specific metrics to say... ...court, filed through motion, where the judge would

Summary: The House Judiciary, Rules Committee approved the minutes from February 3, 2026, and the chair announced upcoming deadlines, including that after February 13 there would be no new RS hearings or introductions except substitute bills. The committee then introduced three RS drafts. RS 3301 C1, presented by Rep. Mike Moyle, would state Idaho public policy that Idaho courts should apply American law and protect citizens from foreign laws that would violate fundamental constitutional rights; it was introduced unanimously. RS 33202, a Capitol Mall security bill, would set limits on tents and other structures on the Capitol Mall, define camping, and allow property to be held for at least 90 days; after a brief recess to review the draft, it was also introduced unanimously. RS 33047, presented by Rep. Tanya Burgoyne, would require people convicted of sexual offenses to pay for their own psychosexual evaluation before sentencing; members asked about who currently pays and why the bill was needed, and it was introduced unanimously. The committee then heard House Bill 540, sponsored by Rep. Bingham, which would add Idaho Department of Juvenile Corrections records to public-records exemptions for safety and security purposes, aligning it more closely with the Department of Corrections. The sponsor said the bill protects sensitive procedures, witnesses, victims, transport records, and intake/assessment records, with no fiscal impact. The bill was moved to the floor with a do-pass recommendation and passed unanimously. House Bill 541, sponsored by Rep. Steve Tanner, would expand Idaho’s internet enticement law to cover 16- and 17-year-olds, with a five-year age-gap requirement for the offender, mirroring other “Romeo and Juliet” style provisions in Idaho law. Testimony from the Attorney General’s office and ICAC cited online enticement data, the prevalence of teenage victims, and the need for consistency with existing sexual-battery statutes; the Idaho Fraternal Order of Police also supported the bill. The committee sent HB 541 to the floor with a do-pass recommendation, unanimously.

Transcript Highlights:

• For example, the department was more than five months late in distributing monies to two of the five
• For example, the department was more than five months late in distributing monies to two of the five
• However, the board imposed the $500 civil penalty for only one of the four licensees while dismissing
• in their offices or the settlement files for particular shows that practice fell behind, but will be
• offices or the settlement files for particular shows.

Committee: House House Commerce Committee of Reference

Summary: The committee met as the House Commerce Committee of Reference to hear sunset reviews and a performance audit covering the Department of Gaming, the Racing Commission, the Boxing and MMA Commission, the Barbering and Cosmetology Board, and the Arizona Sports and Tourism Authority. The Auditor General reported that the Department of Gaming and the two commissions generally met some statutory duties, but identified major issues: the department had not consistently reviewed independent audit reports for event wagering and fantasy sports operators, had disclosure and conflict-of-interest compliance gaps, lacked comprehensive complaint-handling processes, and was late distributing some compact trust fund payments to tribes. The Racing Commission needed better public records procedures, and the Boxing and MMA Commission had licensing and fee-setting issues. The department and commissions said they agreed with the findings and were implementing recommendations, with the department noting it had already begun look-back reviews, updated guidance, and additional staffing. Members also discussed consumer protection, illegal gambling, prediction markets, and whether out-of-state enforcement actions should affect Arizona licenses; the department said it would evaluate such matters case by case and generally wait for final adjudication or final regulatory action before acting. The committee then voted to recommend continuation of the Department of Gaming for two years until July 1, 2028, the Racing Commission for six years until July 1, 2032, and the Boxing and MMA Commission for six years until July 1, 2032. The Department of Gaming motion passed 7-4, the Racing Commission motion passed 10-1, and the Boxing and MMA Commission motion passed unanimously. The committee next heard the Barbering and Cosmetology Board audit. The Auditor General said the board timely processed many applications and complaints and had adopted curriculum rules, but it failed to enforce disciplinary guidelines consistently, sometimes issuing different sanctions for similar violations without documenting why it deviated from policy. The audit also found problems with reciprocity education requirements, application review quality control, inspections, open meeting and public records compliance, conflict-of-interest processes, fee-setting, and statutory clarity on scope of practice and training requirements. The board said it agreed with the findings, had already updated disciplinary parameters and documentation policies, and was working on the remaining recommendations and possible legislation. The committee then voted to continue the board for six years until July 1, 2032, and the motion passed unanimously. At the end of the meeting, the committee began hearing the Arizona Sports and Tourism Authority performance audit, but the transcript provided cuts off before that presentation was completed or any action was taken.

Transcript Highlights:

• statute is because when all of these transactions took place, it was already past the bill deadline filing

Bills: SB330 , SB2069 , SB2095 , SB1721 , SB1433 , SB1316 , SB1280 , SB1455 , SB1456 , SB1457 , SB1459 , SB1461 , SB1463 , SB1465 , SB1466 , HJR1088 , SB1684 , SB378 , SB1447 , SB1920 , SB1443 , HR1047 , SB1877 , SB1884 , SB1365 , SB2174 , SB1525 , SB1810 , SB1771 , SB1805 , SB1916 , SB1530 , SB1847 , SB1990 , SB2060 , SB1992 , SB1579 , SB1778 , SB2132 , SB1623 , SB2067 , SB1589 , SB1441 , SB1224 , SB372 , SB1232 , SB1264 , SB1450 , SB2011 , SB2030 , SB1980 , SB1936 , SB1477 , SB1593 , SB1725 , SB1670 , SB1480 , SB1726 , SB1633 , SB1735 , SB1632 , SB1277 , SB1217 , SB1826 , SB1824 , SB1813 , SB1326 , SB1937 , SB1641

Keywords: elk population, wildlife management, Oklahoma State University, veterinary medicine, ecosystem health, habitat assessment, advanced nuclear energy, nuclear power, small modular reactor, SMR, microreactor, generation III+, generation IV, nuclear reactor, nuclear permitting, nuclear licensing, Oklahoma Corporation Commission, OCC, Oklahoma Advanced Nuclear Energy Office, Oklahoma Advanced Nuclear Development Revolving Fund

Transcript Highlights:

• statute is because when all of these transactions took place, it was already past the bill deadline filing

Bills: SB330 , SB2069 , SB2095 , SB1721 , SB1433 , SB1316 , SB1280 , SB1455 , SB1456 , SB1457 , SB1459 , SB1461 , SB1463 , SB1465 , SB1466 , HJR1088 , SB1684 , SB378 , SB1447 , SB1920 , SB1443 , HR1047 , SB1877 , SB1884 , SB1365 , SB2174 , SB1525 , SB1810 , SB1771 , SB1805 , SB1916 , SB1530 , SB1847 , SB1990 , SB2060 , SB1992 , SB1579 , SB1778 , SB2132 , SB1623 , SB2067 , SB1589 , SB1441 , SB1224 , SB372 , SB1232 , SB1264 , SB1450 , SB2011 , SB2030 , SB1980 , SB1936 , SB1477 , SB1593 , SB1725 , SB1670 , SB1480 , SB1726 , SB1633 , SB1735 , SB1632 , SB1277 , SB1217 , SB1826 , SB1824 , SB1813 , SB1326 , SB1937 , SB1641

Keywords: elk population, wildlife management, Oklahoma State University, veterinary medicine, ecosystem health, habitat assessment, advanced nuclear energy, nuclear power, small modular reactor, SMR, microreactor, generation III+, generation IV, nuclear reactor, nuclear permitting, nuclear licensing, Oklahoma Corporation Commission, OCC, Oklahoma Advanced Nuclear Energy Office, Oklahoma Advanced Nuclear Development Revolving Fund

Summary: The House convened, called the roll, offered an invocation, and recited the Pledge of Allegiance. The chamber also handled routine business including reassignment of Senate Bills 262 and 1618 to the Rules Committee, and recognized the Doctor of the Day, Dr. Hatoum, and Nurse of the Day, Alexis Watt of Pryor. Several guest groups were introduced from the galleries, including Leadership Lawton-Fort Sill, the Grove Area Chamber of Commerce, Sooner Job Challenge, Elevate Oklahoma students, and the Antlers youth leadership group from Sapulpa. The main legislative item discussed was House Resolution 1047 by Representative Sneed concerning CompSource Mutual Insurance Company. Sneed said the resolution was intended to ensure policyholders are made whole from roughly $1 billion in reserves before any reorganization or conversion, and explained that policyholders should share in the value created by their premiums. Members asked questions about CompSource’s structure, its move from mutual to stock status, whether the resolution was binding, and whether policyholders would receive cash or stock; Sneed said the resolution expresses the will of the House and that the details would be determined by the policyholders and the company. An amendment to the resolution was adopted without objection, and the resolution itself was then adopted without objection. The remainder of the meeting consisted of announcements about committee meetings and events, including devotion, Gen Gov, Post-Secondary Education, Banking, Insurance, Public Health, Rural Caucus, and Oklahoma Film and Music Day. The floor leader then moved to adjourn, and the House adjourned until Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at 1:30 p.m.

Transcript Highlights:

• And you all need to be able to have a reliable system to file.
• Do we charge a late fee, to put it that way?
• So, if they're not filing the returns on time, then there is an interest and penalty.
• If they're not filing the returns on time, then there is interest and penalties.
• I'm filing for office today.

Committee: Senate House Appropriations & Finance

Summary: The committee heard budget presentations from the Secretary of State, the State Land Office, the Attorney General, and the State Auditor. The Secretary of State said its requested general fund budget of $15.88 million was intended to maintain baseline operations, replace lost federal cyber and election support, and address a 12% vacancy rate. Officials warned that the House recommendation still left major gaps for election security, tabulator replacement, campaign finance system upgrades, overseas and military ballot services, ballot tracking, and a new tax lien filing system. Senators pressed about the election fund, county burdens, and the risk of underfunding election administration; the office said the House had provided $15 million for the election fund for the primary and another $15 million for the general election, but not enough for operations or all capital needs. The State Land Office said it was satisfied with the House budget action and had no additional request. Staff described the office’s record revenues, low vacancy rate, clean audits, and proposed new positions tied to forestry, economic development, petroleum, geothermal, and royalty compliance work. Senators asked about long-term revenue trends, forest thinning and biomass opportunities, and bookkeeping around the land maintenance fund; the office said the new positions were intended to generate revenue and support land management, including fire mitigation. The Attorney General’s office presented a budget built around a 0% general fund increase, greater use of the Consumer Settlement Fund, and $4.5 million in special/extraordinary litigation funding. The AG emphasized active litigation and investigations involving consumer fraud, Medicaid fraud, federal funding cuts, Meta and other technology platforms, AI and child safety, gaming compacts, tobacco, and possible litigation over abandoned uranium mine cleanup. Senators asked about scam enforcement, the structure of settlement funds, and whether the office could take on uranium-related litigation; the AG said the office could prepare a litigation budget but warned such efforts would require sustained funding. The State Auditor said the House budget added only modest increases while the office faced about a 40% vacancy rate, difficulty recruiting auditors, and a shrinking pool of public accounting firms, creating risks for constitutional audit responsibilities.

Transcript Highlights:

• The bill amends our statutes to add criminal penalties for health care practitioners who willfully or
• And your bill creates new criminal penalties as well as a civil cause of action?
• Looking over it, it was a late amendment, so I was only able to look it over yesterday evening.
• It couldn’t just be anybody coming and filing on behalf of that minor.
• conversation that, as a professional or a teacher, I have is going to be punishable by a $100,000 penalty

Summary: The Committee on Children, Families, and Elder Affairs considered several bills. SB 590, by Senator Bradley, would toll the statute of limitations for failure to report suspected child abuse by mandatory reporters until the offense is known to law enforcement, with a retroactivity amendment adopted. Supporters said it would help hold mandatory reporters accountable in institutional abuse cases; it was reported favorably. SB 778, by Senator Simon, would update the definition of forensic client so certain individuals with intellectual disabilities or autism whose charges were dismissed for incompetency could be housed in the same secure setting under Chapter 916, reducing duplicative staffing and space needs at APD; it was also reported favorably. The committee then took up SB 560, by Senator Garcia, which streamlines psychotropic medication procedures for children in DCF custody, clarifies when new medical reports are needed, reduces duplicative background checks, and simplifies consent documentation. An amendment removed language expanding who could serve as a qualified evaluator and revised the Road to Independence Program changes to focus only on post-secondary education services and support, extending eligibility ages to 26 while keeping a five-year maximum. Members discussed fiscal impacts and funding sources, and the bill was reported favorably. Finally, the committee heard SB 1010, by Senator Yarbrough, which strengthens enforcement of existing prohibitions on sex-reassignment prescriptions and procedures for minors and adds civil and criminal penalties, along with Attorney General enforcement authority and related parental rights provisions. An amendment clarified that actions could be brought by individuals as well as the Attorney General and that the provisions apply only to minors. The bill drew extensive public testimony both for and against, with supporters emphasizing child protection and accountability and opponents warning about chilling effects on medical care, schools, and parental rights. Senators raised concerns about standing, scope, and impacts on teachers and clinicians, but the bill was ultimately reported favorably on a 5-1 vote, with Senator Sharif voting no.

Transcript Highlights:

• Rouson: WHAT IS THE PENALTY OR CONSEQUENCE OF PEDDLING HEMP WITH A HIGHER THC THAN THIS BILL?
• THERE ARE NOT HUGE PENALTIES AT THIS POINT IN TIME.
• THINGS LIKE THE PENALTIES FOR SELLING THESE LEVEL PRODUCTS, THE PENALTIES FOR SELLING TO UNDERAGE AND
• SO THAT THEY WOULDN'T HAVE TO CONSTANTLY FILE EVERY SINGLE TIME. AND THEN THE THREE-TIER SYSTEM.
• MEMBERS, WE ARE NOW IN THE LATE. ANYONE WISH TO DEBATE?

Keywords: 999, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• This is not the first time this legislation has been filed.
• It's not even the first time that it's been filed this term.
• Opiate deaths have been cut in half since the similar legislation was first filed a decade ago. filing
• They have filed them has rejected them.
• </c><01:46:05.199><c> that</c> simply by increasing penalties that simply by increasing penalties that

Committee: House Criminal Justice and Public Safety

Keywords: 1189, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Passed out with a vote of H.J.R. 7 in November is probably 20 years too late.
• But what they have filed for are three different counties.
• I know where they're filed, and that's what if you're watching a Trinity and...
• Once you file for an export permit, it will take a couple more years to get that.
• All of that information, prepare all of those reports, and file them with the district.

Keywords: 1185, senate, all