Transcript Highlights:

• . licenses. licenses.
• license. renewal or duplicate driver's license.
• first driver's license. first driver's license.
• on the driver's license. on the driver's license.
• . license. license.

Keywords: MS House Floor - 31 March, 2026; 10:00 AM, 925, all

Summary: The House convened with prayer, a guest vocalist, and the Pledge of Allegiance before moving into routine business. Members first recognized several special guests and school groups, including championship teams from Simpson County Academy, New Albany High School, Tougaloo College, Madison-Richland Academy, East Rankin Academy, Morton High School, and others, along with honorees such as Dr. Katrina Cox, Pamela Moody, Joe Helen Joey Walker, and Jimmy Carr. The chamber also noted a prior resolution honoring Reverend Dr. Victor Dixon and the Copiah County Ministerial Alliance, and Dr. Dixon led the opening prayer. On the calendar, the House adopted a conference report on House Bill 1752 dealing with judicial salaries. The report set new salary amounts for state court judges effective January 1, 2027, froze district attorney salary increases until January 1, 2028, and then tied DAs to 95% of circuit and chancery judges’ pay. It also removed mandatory raise language for judges and county court judges, and members briefly discussed the broader issue of legislative compensation. The report passed 115-2. The House then adopted a conference report on House Bill 377, the missing persons bill, which clarified definitions, added forensic genetic genealogy testing provisions, and set timelines for law enforcement to enter credible missing-person reports into NamUs and NCIC. That report passed 120-0. The chamber also adopted a conference report on House Bill 525, changing the penalty for sexual battery in a position of trust or authority from a 0-to-30-year range to a 5-to-30-year range; it passed 112-0. Later, the House adopted a conference report on House Bill 925 after removing veto-message language, and adopted another conference report on House Bill 939 combining a low-sat repealer change and a fire truck acquisition program that creates a Fire Equipment Fund supported by recurring black tag revenue. The House also approved unanimous-consent amendments to Senate Bill 3105 and recommitted Senate Bill 2747 for further work.

Transcript Highlights:

• As part of the licensing process, LDH is required to conduct background checks on certain persons who
• The supervising doctor must be physically on site, and they must be a licensed chiropractor.
• So the licensed chiropractor then says, okay, these are the procedures that need to be done.
• So the licensed chiropractor then says, okay, these are the procedures that need to be done.
• The licensed chiropractor is making that plan, and then the student doctor will execute it.

Summary: The Senate Committee on Health and Welfare met on May 13 and approved the minutes from the prior week before taking up a series of House bills, many of them with testimony from sponsors, agency officials, and stakeholders. Early action included HB 971, which would direct LDH to equalize Medicaid reimbursement rates between independent rural health clinics and hospital-owned rural health clinics; the sponsor described a significant payment disparity and the committee reported the bill favorably. The committee also deferred HB 1030 and HB 796 until the following week before moving to other items on the agenda. Several bills dealing with Medicaid and provider regulation were advanced. HB 414, as amended, closes a loophole so health care providers cannot hire unlicensed workers with certain serious out-of-state convictions; amendments addressed effective dates, FBI background-check issues for therapeutic group homes, and delays for direct support professional applicants caused by minor record issues. HB 740, as amended, creates an independent review process for Medicaid claims disputes in the coordinated system of care for behavioral health providers, with amendments clarifying applicability dates and program definitions. HB 786, which prohibits extrapolation in managed care claims recoupments and requires recovery to be based on actual overpayments or underpayments, was also reported favorably. HB 915 set timelines and accountability standards for prior authorization and utilization management in Medicaid managed care and was reported favorably after testimony about delays in care. The committee also heard and passed several bills affecting health professions and facilities. HB 405 simply updates the name of the national acupuncture certification body. HB 1095 allows nursing homes to use alternative power sources while keeping existing generator and fuel requirements. HB 557 defines long-term care pharmacies for policy purposes. HB 779 authorizes expedited partner therapy prescriptions for certain sexually transmitted diseases. HB 933 creates an optional commemorative birth certificate, with part of the fee going to the Office of Women’s Health. HB 796, carried by another representative for the author, establishes a chiropractic preceptorship program with on-site supervision requirements and was reported favorably after questions about student training and patient safety. The committee also heard emotionally charged testimony on HB 288, which would place the term “miscarriage” alongside “spontaneous abortion” in medical documentation and patient communication. Several witnesses described the distress caused by current coding language, and supporters said the change would make records more compassionate and understandable; the bill was reported favorably. HB 403 increased the cottage food gross-sales cap, and after testimony from small producers and the committee’s discussion of other states’ higher limits, an amendment raised the cap to $150,000 before the bill was reported favorably. HB 930 modernizes cosmetic-product regulation and creates a small home-based producer exemption under a wholesale-sales threshold; it was also reported favorably. Finally, HB 1041, a no-mandate bill restricting discrimination based on medical intervention status, prompted extended debate over exemptions for schools, hospitals, and other entities, with one amendment failing on a roll-call vote and the discussion continuing over the scope of the bill and federal funding concerns.

Transcript Highlights:

• if anyone lacks wisdom, they should ask you and you will give generously, so that we ask that you guide
• They also have a state-licensed child care. ...addiction, homelessness, and abuse.
• They also have a state-licensed child care facility that is available to the community of Casa Grande
• HB 2189, licensed health aides rules. HB 2171, land ownership hostile entities prohibition.
• HB 2189, licensed health aides rules. HB 2195, nursing facilities records surface timelines.

Keywords: 1182, all

Summary: The meeting opened with prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, attendance, and several guest introductions, including the Doctor of the Day, realtors visiting for Realtor Day, and a representative from Home of Hope. The Senate then handled a large number of bill referrals and second-reading items before moving into Committee of the Whole on multiple calendars. Several bills were advanced with committee and floor amendments, including SB 1494, SB 1497, SB 1503, SB 1535, SB 1544, SB 1580, SB 1582, SB 1584, SB 1585, SB 1602, SB 1632, SB 1723, and SB 1798. Many of the amendments were described as technical cleanups, but some made substantive changes, such as SB 1535’s provisions on sealing records for sex-trafficking victims and SB 1723’s domestic-violence release and monitoring provisions. The Committee of the Whole also adopted a report recommending several bills do pass as amended. The chamber adopted House Concurrent Resolution 264 honoring former Senator Barbara Leff, followed by a moment of silence and remarks from her family. The Senate then returned to Committee of the Whole for Calendar 1, where it retained SB 1332 and advanced SB 1654, SB 1711, SB 1743, SCR 1047, and HB 2993. HB 2993 drew the most debate: opponents argued it had a single-subject problem, relied on funding from the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Fraud Fund, and could create unnecessary outside-counsel costs for DPS, while supporters cited the need for the supplemental and defended the funding approach. The motion to report HB 2993 do pass carried by division, 16-13. In third reading, the Senate passed HB 4115 and a series of Senate bills, including SB 1012, SB 1213, SB 1416, SB 1474, SB 1511, SB 1549, SB 1573, SB 1634, SB 1647, and SB 1649, with several passing on close 16-13 votes. Debate centered heavily on immigration enforcement, concealed carry in businesses serving alcohol, CDL and driver-license issues, campaign finance disclosure, and a digital asset reserve fund. Members on both sides repeatedly explained votes on constitutional, public safety, fiscal, and civil-rights grounds. The session ended with bills transmitted to the House after passage.

Transcript Highlights:

• conference report simply ensures we have the correct agencies named and restores an enactment clause guiding
• size for concealed carry from 10 to 15 rounds, and keeps in place exemptions for law enforcement, licensed

Keywords: March 13, 2026 - Regular Session Part 2, 976, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• phase of implementation, the insights gained are intended to act as scaffolding and as a model to guide
• , and dedicated ongoing technical assistance, this has resulted in an increase of almost 140% in licensed

Summary: The Committee on Children, Families, and Elder Affairs considered three bills and a confirmation. On SB 1600, as amended, the sponsor explained that the original child welfare language was replaced with a strike-all requiring the Office of Insurance Regulation to work with DCF and community-based care lead agencies to study liability insurance coverage and availability, report findings to the Legislature by January 1, 2027, and allow penalties for failure to provide requested information. The committee adopted the amendment and amendment to the amendment, heard supportive testimony from child welfare advocates, and reported the committee substitute favorably. The committee also heard CS/SB 556, which would allow students with disabilities to satisfy a physical education graduation requirement through participation in Special Olympics, and clarify that two years of marching band participation can satisfy PE and fine arts credit. Special Olympics Florida, parents, and other supporters testified in favor, and the bill was reported favorably. On SB 794, the sponsor described requirements for background screening of employees in residential facilities and day training programs for people with developmental disabilities, plus a review of waiver support coordination quality, workforce needs, geographic service gaps, and related recommendations due in 2027. The committee adopted a conforming amendment and reported the bill. The committee then took up the confirmation of Taylor Hatch as Secretary of the Department of Children and Families. Hatch outlined DCF’s recent work on child welfare, behavioral health, peer support, and technology improvements, and answered questions about child welfare system challenges, funding formulas, opioid settlement dollars, and interoperability of agency systems. After public comment, the committee voted to recommend her confirmation favorably, with Chair Graal voting no. The meeting ended with a request to record one senator’s vote on SB 1600 and adjournment.

Transcript Highlights:

• phase of implementation, the insights gained are intended to act as scaffolding and as a model to guide
• feedback, and dedicated ongoing technical assistance, this resulted in an increase of almost 140% in licensed

Bills: S0556, S0794, S1600

Keywords: high school diploma, graduation requirements, physical education credit, performing arts credit, marching band, Special Olympics, students with disabilities, IEP, individual education plan, 504 plan, Florida education, school credits, diploma substitution, ROTC, dance class, State Board of Education, public schools, graduation pathways, adaptive physical education, Agency for Persons with Disabilities

Summary: The Committee on Children, Families, and Elder Affairs considered three bills and a confirmation. On SB 1600, the committee adopted a strike-all amendment and a technical amendment that shifted the bill from creating an accreditation process to requiring the Office of Insurance Regulation, DCF, and community-based care lead agencies to study liability insurance coverage and availability in the child welfare sector and report findings to the legislature by January 1, 2027; the bill also included enforcement provisions for failure to provide requested information. Support was noted from child and family advocacy groups, and the committee reported the bill favorably. The committee also heard CS for SB 556, which would allow students with disabilities to satisfy a physical education graduation requirement through participation in Special Olympics, if included in the student’s IEP, and would clarify that two years of marching band participation can satisfy both PE and fine arts credit. Special Olympics Florida, families, and other supporters testified in favor, emphasizing flexibility, access, and recognition of rigorous activity. The bill was reported favorably. The committee then considered CS for SB 794, which requires background screening for employees of residential facilities and day training programs serving people with developmental disabilities and directs a review of waiver support coordination, including quality, consistency, access, competencies, recruitment and retention, caseloads, and geographic gaps in services. An amendment to conform to the House version was adopted, and the bill was reported favorably. Members then questioned Secretary Taylor Hatch regarding her confirmation as Secretary of the Department of Children and Families. Senators raised concerns about child welfare system performance, parent notification and rights, CBC funding formulas, managing entities, opioid settlement spending, peer support expansion, and technology/interoperability improvements. Hatch described DCF’s recent data and initiatives, including reductions in out-of-home care entries, youth advisory efforts, missing children recovery operations, expanded behavioral health capacity, and technology upgrades for benefits processing. Public comment included support from family and provider organizations and concerns from a former foster care worker about medical misdiagnosis cases. The committee voted to recommend Hatch’s confirmation favorably, with Chair Grall voting no, and adjourned after allowing Senator Sharief to be recorded as voting in favor of SB 1600.

Transcript Highlights:

• It requires the department to adopt the best management practices which will guide how and where cultivated
• House Bill 3129 allows those applying for a hunting or fishing license to voluntarily contribute money

Bills: HB3129, HB3251, HB3556, HB3724, HB3887

Keywords: construction, wildlife impact, height restrictions, national wildlife refuge, environmental regulations, HB 3887, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Parks and Wildlife Code, performance bond, payment bond, contractor bonding, public works, construction contracts, public building, procurement, bid security, subcontractors, suppliers, contractor payment protection, project completion

Transcript Highlights:

• You know, when you get your license, this reduces the barrier to just work.
• contracting licensing board, et cetera.
• Licensed contractors and other professionals.
• Many of these boards actually assist with reviewing license applications.
• And it's to guide them as they become. Members, vote down on this bill.

Summary: The House opened with prayer, a moment of silence for fallen Oviedo Officer Jimmy Serrano-Torres, the Pledge of Allegiance, and recognition of Chief Joseph Tuminelli as law enforcement officer of the day. The Rules and Ethics Committee report setting the special order calendar was adopted, and the Speaker announced schedule changes for the following week, including canceling the floor session on Monday and starting Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. The main floor action centered on CS/HB 7033, the House tax package. Sponsor Rep. Duggan described broad tax changes, including reducing the state sales tax rate from 6% to 5.25%, exempting certain bullion sales, repealing the aviation fuel tax, delaying the natural gas fuel tax, changing corporate income tax treatment for charitable trusts, reducing the pari-mutuel tax on card rooms, and major changes to tourist development tax (TDT) use. The bill would redirect most TDT revenue toward property tax relief, dissolve tourist development councils, and include related property tax and local tax administration changes. Several amendments were debated: a Driscoll amendment to preserve local TDT flexibility failed; Duggan’s amendment giving local governments 25% discretion over TDT revenues was adopted; Eskamani’s combined-reporting amendment failed; and a Duggan amendment requiring audit certification of compliance with the TDT/property tax relief provisions was adopted. After debate, CS/HB 7033 passed 78-29. The House then took up CS/CS/HB 1221 on local option taxes, which was presented as a companion-style measure to give local governments more flexibility while redirecting TDT revenues toward property tax relief. Supporters argued the bill would provide immediate relief to property owners and restore accountability in local tax use, while opponents warned it would undermine tourism funding, infrastructure, and local services. An amendment allowing local governments to retain 25% of TDT revenues for general purposes was adopted, and the bill passed 62-45 after floor debate. The final item shown was the reading of CS/CS/HJR 1257, a proposed constitutional amendment related to property tax exemptions and assessment limits, but the transcript cuts off before debate or action on that measure.

Transcript Highlights:

• You know, when you get your license, this reduces the barrier to just work.
• The point is we want... ...licensed contractors and other professionals.
• Many of these boards actually assist with reviewing license applications.
• So first, we are not changing the licensing requirements to get in that field.
• And it's to guide them as they become. Members, vote down on this bill.

Summary: The House opened with prayer, a moment of silence for fallen Oviedo Officer Jimmy Serrano-Torres, the Pledge of Allegiance, and recognition of Chief Joseph Tuminelli as law enforcement officer of the day. The chamber approved the journal and adopted the special order report, and the Speaker announced a schedule change canceling the floor on Monday and starting Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. The main business was CS for HB 7033, the House tax package, presented by Rep. Duggan. He described a broad set of tax changes, including the previously passed sales tax rate reduction from 6% to 5.25%, exemptions for certain bullion sales, changes to tourist development tax (TDT) use, property tax administration updates, affordable housing-related exemptions, repeal of the aviation fuel tax, delayed natural gas fuel tax implementation, corporate income tax changes, and other provisions. Debate focused heavily on the TDT section and the bill’s property tax relief structure. Amendments to preserve local flexibility or remove the TDT restrictions were offered and debated; one Duggan amendment was adopted to allow local governments to keep 25% of TDT revenues for general use while directing 75% to property tax relief, and another amendment requiring audit certification of compliance was also adopted. A combined reporting amendment offered by Rep. Eskamani to close corporate tax loopholes was debated at length but failed. On final passage, supporters argued the bill provides immediate, permanent tax relief and affordability help, while opponents said it diverts tourism dollars away from local needs and could harm tourism-dependent counties and services. CS for HB 7033 passed the House 78-29. The chamber then took up CS for CS for HB 1221 on local option taxes, which would give local governments more control over certain local taxes and, as presented, redirect TDT revenues toward property tax relief with some local flexibility. After questions and amendments, including a Miller amendment allowing 25% of TDT revenue for general purposes and another accountability amendment, the bill moved to final debate. Members split sharply: supporters framed it as immediate tax relief and local accountability, while opponents warned it would undermine tourism marketing, infrastructure, and county budgets. The transcript ends during closing debate on HB 1221, before final passage is recorded.

Transcript Highlights:

• The model would have appropriate licensed or certified staff available 24 hours a day to take care of
• Senate Bill 779 by Senator Arreguín, an act of the Contractors State License Board.
• These increases ensure that ...that are assessed by the Contractors State License Board.
• Earlier this year, we passed AB 116 to fully license and regulate PBMs, ensuring the state will collect
• comprehensive data to guide meaningful reform.

Summary: The Assembly convened, established a quorum after a roll call, observed a moment of silence for John Burton, and proceeded with the Pledge of Allegiance and routine procedural motions. Members approved a rule suspension to allow floor amendments on SB 271 and SB 67, and several committee notices and bill referrals were handled. The chamber then moved through a long third-reading file, with many bills passed and a number of items temporarily passed or retained on file. Among the major measures approved were bills on civil rights and public safety (SB 477, SB 19, SB 36, SB 571, SB 580), health care and coverage (SB 257 on pregnancy as a qualifying life event, SB 530 on Medi-Cal access standards, SB 660 on health data exchange, SB 754 on menstrual product contaminant disclosure), housing and disaster recovery (SB 610, SB 655), transportation and climate (SB 533 on EV charging payments, SB 30 on diesel locomotives, SB 71 on CEQA exemptions for transit, SB 263 on tariff impacts), and natural resources/energy (SB 283 on battery storage safety, SB 88 on biomass emissions, SB 427 extending the Habitat Conservation Fund). The Assembly also passed urgency measures including SB 864 on tribal gaming compacts, SB 663 on wildfire-related property tax relief, SB 471 expanding DDS ombudsman authority, and SB 497 on privacy protections for legally protected health services. Several bills drew notable debate. SB 41 on pharmacy benefit managers saw opposition over concerns about moving ahead before broader PBM data and licensing reforms take effect, but it still passed. AB 1340, a concurrence item on gig worker collective bargaining rights, prompted extended debate over labor rights, consumer costs, and union influence. Other concurrence items included AB 671 on restaurant permitting, which passed without opposition. The Assembly also took up SB 640 on direct admission to CSU, SB 702 on demographic reporting for appointees, SB 710 preserving a solar property tax exclusion, and SB 793 on counterfeit lighter safety, all of which passed. The session ended with the Assembly continuing through the file, including concurrence votes and additional bill actions, with most measures approved by substantial margins.

Transcript Highlights:

• The one audit request on the proposed consent calendar is Senator Lackey's DMV license revocation request
• Intelligence Center has routinely requested access to DMV records, social media information, and license
• And that is actually just consisting of one audit, 206-108, on the DMV license revocation.
• Motion is to approve the proposed consent calendar, 206, 108, Department of Motor Vehicles, license,
• Department of Motor Vehicles license verification by Assembly Member Lackey.

Summary: The committee met as a subcommittee for much of the hearing because it initially lacked a quorum, then later established one and began taking votes. The state auditor gave a status update on ongoing audits, including several JALAC-requested audits in progress, other statutory audits, staffing growth in his office, and the number of new JALAC audits his office could start in the coming months. The committee also heard that one audit request on Prop. 28 was held, and another PUC-related request was moved off consent and heard on the regular calendar. Members then heard and discussed several audit requests. Senator Cervantes presented a request to audit California fusion centers, with witnesses from the FBI and ACLU supporting the need for transparency and oversight; opponents argued the request was politically motivated and could interfere with counterterrorism work. Senator Allen presented a request on CPUC enforcement of Rule 21 interconnection timelines for solar and storage projects, supported by industry and school representatives who described long delays and financial harm, while CPUC staff said the issue was being addressed through workshops and a formal proceeding. Senator Perez presented a request to audit Caltrans’ administration of the former SR 710 extension properties and affordable sales program, citing tenant complaints about maintenance, pricing, and transparency; Caltrans said it was working to complete sales and improve administration. Senator Umberg presented a request to audit the Orange County Board of Education over transparency, contracting, litigation spending, charter oversight, and whistleblower issues, while board representatives said there was no factual basis for an audit and that existing legal remedies had not been invoked. After quorum was established, the committee approved the consent-calendar DMV license revocation audit and then approved the PUC utility timeliness audit and the Caltrans SR 710 audit. The fusion center audit was left on call after a split vote, and the Orange County Board of Education audit continued with testimony from the board’s representatives after the committee had already moved on to other business.

Transcript Highlights:

• So he served Gila County as a supervisor for seven terms from 1935 to 1949, guiding the county through
• This license plate allows citizens to support safer communities in a simple, visible, and meaningful
• This license plate allows citizens to support safer communities in a simple, visible, and meaningful
• This license plate allows citizens to support safer communities in a simple, visible, and meaningful
• This license plate allows citizens to support safer communities in a simple, visible, and meaningful

Bills: SB1001, SB1035, SB1056, SB1065, SB1138, SB1161, SB1204, SB1207, SB1248, SB1274, SB1284, SCM1002, SCM1006, SCR1020

Keywords: appropriation, economic security, blind individuals, older adults, state funding, Arizona Department of Corrections, ADC, corrections, prison, jail, correctional officers, prison guards, staffing, retention, salary increase, pay raise, wage increase, general fund, state budget, private prisons

Summary: The committee approved the January 27, 2026 minutes and held SB 1138 for further changes. It then heard SB 1035, which appropriates about $34 million from the General Fund for a 5% pay increase for Arizona Department of Corrections sworn officers and civilian employees, with an amendment extending the raise to private prison employees under contract. Supporters said DOC pay is not competitive and vacancies are high; opponents questioned paying private prison staff and raised concerns about private prison incentives. The committee adopted the amendment and gave SB 1035 a do pass recommendation on a 6-3 vote. The committee also approved two memorials to rename highways: SCM 1002 for L.F. Quinn Memorial Highway and SCM 1006 for PFC Michael Nolan Memorial Highway. Both measures drew emotional testimony about the honorees’ public service and military sacrifice, and both received do pass recommendations, with SCM 1002 passing 9-1 and SCM 1006 passing 9-1 after members discussed tribal jurisdiction and agreed to follow up with a letter to the tribe. SB 1065, which would appropriate $3.64 million for the Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Military Veterans Fund, was supported by the sponsor and researchers who said the treatment can help veterans with PTSD, traumatic brain injury, pain, and related conditions. Some members objected that the FDA has not approved HBOT for many of the claimed uses and questioned prior unspent funding, but the bill still received a do pass recommendation on a 6-4 vote. SB 1248, which clarifies funding and attendance-count rules for county jail and juvenile detention education programs, also passed unanimously. Later, the committee approved SB 1204, a $5.5 million General Fund appropriation to design and analyze improvements to the U.S. 60/Loop 303 interchange, after testimony from local officials and residents about severe congestion, crashes, and public safety delays; it passed 8-1. SB 1207, a $150,000 study on financing mechanisms for development-related infrastructure along the same corridor, also passed 7-1. Finally, SB 1001, which restores $1 million for the Older Individuals Who Are Blind program, passed 9-0 after testimony from blind seniors and advocates about long waitlists and the program’s role in preserving independence. The committee then began SB 1274, a police foundation specialty license plate bill, with sponsor and foundation testimony describing wellness, remembrance, and youth programs funded by plate revenues, but the transcript cuts off before any vote on that measure.

Transcript Highlights:

• PETITION FORMS WILL INCLUDE DRIVERS LICENSE NUMBER OR LAST FOUR DIGITS OF SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER AND
• >> Senator Gaetz: IN TALKING WITH SUPERVISORS OF ELECTIONS THEY ARE GUIDING US AND THIS IS TOUVAL.
• >> Senator Grall: THE SAME TYPE IS EXEMPT LIKE A DRIVER'S LICENSE, LAST FOR OF SOCIAL.
• THE SAME ITEMS OF DRIVER'S LICENSE AND LAST FOUR WOULD BE REDACTED IF THAT INFORMATION WAS REQUESTED.
• IMPORTANT INFORMATION WE ARE NOW ASKING PEOPLE TO ADD TO A PETITION, THEIR SOCIAL, THEIR DRIVER'S LICENSE

Keywords: 999, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• I ask for your guiding hand upon them that they may trust in your providence and yield to your will so
• , my driver's license, is the little heart that says donor on there.
• And it's certainly not just to licensed folks.
• that county. 7.8 counties have no licensed chemical dependency counselor.
• . ...must receive this training as a condition of receiving or renewing a medical license.

Summary: The Senate began with a quorum call, prayer, approval of the previous journal, and messages from the House, then moved through several recognitions and resolutions honoring visiting groups. Members adopted resolutions recognizing the Texas chapters of Blue Star Mothers of America, Fine Arts Education Day, Donate Life Texas Day, Baha’i Capitol Day, County Government Day, Jack County Day, Crockett County Day, and a recognition of Navy Petty Officer Simon Urbanik for service during the Cuban Missile Crisis. The chamber also heard remarks from visiting doctors, students, county officials, and community groups, with multiple senators speaking in support of military families, arts education, organ donation, and local government service. The Senate then took up Committee Substitute Senate Bill 2779, relating to the allocation and use of certain hotel occupancy tax revenues. Senator Birdwell said the bill would stop local governments from conditioning HOT funds on race- or class-based priorities and would require Galveston to transfer the full state rebate for beach cleaning and maintenance to its park board. After questions, the Senate suspended the rules, passed the bill to engrossment, suspended the three-day rule, and finally passed it, though the final vote showed significant opposition. The chamber also passed Committee Substitute Senate Bill 2322, described as a cleanup bill removing the compelling-factor test for dispatchable generation from the Texas Jobs, Energy, Technology, and Innovation Act. A major debate centered on Committee Substitute Senate Bill 2253, which would phase out uncertified teachers in core classrooms and strengthen educator certification requirements. Senator Creighton argued the bill responds to a teacher pipeline crisis, adds parent notification, creates multiple preparation pathways, and provides financial incentives for certification; Senator West and Senator Sparks pressed for rural flexibility and implementation details. An amendment from Senator Gutierrez to add a teacher student-loan repayment program failed on a 11-17 vote, while other technical and fiscal amendments were adopted. The bill then passed to engrossment, the three-day rule was suspended, and it was finally passed. The Senate also passed Committee Substitute Senate Bill 2371, updating skimmer-reporting rules to cover electronic terminals beyond fuel pumps, and Committee Substitute Senate Bill 2351, relating to the construction of certain concrete plants under a standard permit. Senate Bill 619, a conscience-protection bill for health care workers, drew extended questioning from Senators Cook, Eckhardt, and Menendez about patient abandonment, scope, and whether it could allow refusals of legal services such as vaccines, antibiotics, contraception, or personal care; despite those concerns, the Senate suspended the rules and passed the bill to engrossment. Finally, the chamber began consideration of Committee Substitute Senate Bill 1169, which would allow public entities to form public utility agencies to cooperate on water and wastewater projects without eminent domain or cross-collateralization, with Senator Hinojosa explaining it as a tool for small and rural communities facing utility infrastructure problems.

Transcript Highlights:

• Our moms have direct access to on-site licensed sonographers, OBGYNs, and nurses.
• My name is Mark Cavalier, and I am the CEO of Guiding Star Southwest, as well as the Lilypad Maternity
• Our providers are state-licensed and state-regulated, and if this legislature adopts a state standard
• The Administrative Fire Code states that fire marshals shall inspect every licensed facility.
• We have both an assisted living license and an assisted living.

Bills: SB397, SB481, SB596, SB760, SB855, SB1195, SB1196, SB1233, SB1257, SB1318, SB1368, SB1388, SB1398, SB1524, SB1558, SB1589, SB1677, SB1792, SB2034

Keywords: SB 397, telemedicine, telehealth, teledentistry, remote care, virtual care, consent documentation, patient consent, data collection, data sharing, audio-only telehealth, in-person examination, irreversible medical procedure, health professional regulation, Occupations Code, Texas Health and Human Services, medical records, provider compliance, data privacy, consumer rights

Transcript Highlights:

• licenses in the state of New Jersey, I think we need to be extraordinarily careful.
• Accordingly, I would encourage others. liquor licenses.
• Revolutionary War license plates. Assemblyman Moen. Thank you, Madam Speaker.
• So if I can kind of guide you back just into the bill. Back onto the bill, yes.
• Burwick Grenier’s license, please. Assemblywoman Lopez. Mr. Speaker, I move the bill.

Keywords: 1146, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Guide us with your wisdom and help us understand the needs of others so that we may pursue what is best
• My personal religious conviction will always guide my life, but my responsibility as an elected official
• who have passed the Association of Social Workers Board national clinical examination and hold a licensed
• Many have earned advanced clinical licenses that require years of supervised experience and national
• Senate Bill 75 simply ensures state-issued licenses have a realistic path to exist.

Keywords: 1064, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Guide us with your wisdom and help us understand the needs of others so that we may pursue what is best
• My personal religious conviction will always guide my life, but my responsibility as an elected official
• who have passed the Association of Social Workers Board national clinical examination and hold a licensed
• Many have earned advanced clinical licenses that require years of supervised experience and national
• Senate Bill 75 simply ensures state-issued licenses have a realistic path to exist.

Summary: The House met on June 30, 2026, with opening ceremonies, guest introductions, a prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, and a moment of silence for two deceased community members. Members also adopted Consent Calendar 29, which included House Concurrent Resolutions 153, 154, and 156, and passed House Concurrent Resolution 157 directing the State Lottery to report on iLottery options to support traditional lottery retailers, as amended to set a February 15, 2027 reporting deadline. The chamber then considered several bills on agriculture, telecommunications, health, fire service standards, corrections, elections, and education. Among the measures passed were Senate Bill 53 on the Delaware Farm to Community Program, Senate Bill 307 on PSC authority for Lifeline telecom carriers, Senate Bill 339 clarifying advance health care directives, Senate Bill 235 extending manufactured home rent increase rules, Senate Bill 325 updating firefighter/EMS background check and membership standards, Senate Bill 309 discharging incarceration-related balances, Senate Bill 324 on constable-related handgun purchase exemptions, Senate Bill 94 on respiratory care practitioners and ECMO medication access, and Senate Bill 293 creating a licensure pathway for summer camp providers in the Purchase of Care program. The House also passed Senate Substitute 2 for Senate Bill 100, proposing a constitutional amendment to protect the right to marry regardless of race or gender while explicitly preserving religious freedom. The bill drew extended debate, with supporters framing it as a safeguard against future rollbacks of marriage equality and opponents raising concerns about constitutionalizing an issue already in statute; several members explained changed votes and personal reflections before the final roll call, which passed 28-12. House Bill 188, which would allow unaffiliated voters to choose a party primary, also passed after amendment, despite some opposition over party-system effects. Two measures were tabled or amended after debate: Senate Bill 233 on removing snow and ice from vehicles was initially tabled to consider a truck-driver exemption amendment, then the amendment failed and the bill later passed as amended; and Senate Joint Resolution 19 on studying health care costs was tabled briefly pending legal clarification. House Substitute 1 for House Bill 404, creating a three-year pilot program for AI and extended reality in schools, passed after testimony from the Department of Education emphasizing guardrails, data privacy, and teacher oversight. The transcript ends as House Bill 478 is being read in, but no final action on that bill appears in the provided text.

Transcript Highlights:

• And now she's going to have the Guided by Gilbert litter.
• going<00:04:17.440> to<00:04:17.600> have<00:04:18.079> the<00:04:18.239> Guided
• <00:04:19.040> by she's going to have the Guided by she's going to have the Guided by Gilbert
• honor I can think of no better way to honor the Hortmans and Gilbert's legacy than to sponsor the Guided
• Um, question: does, is, are there any triggers that would require disclosure to the licensing board?

Keywords: 919, house, all

Summary: The committee first took up House File 3939, a bill to support a Helping Paws service-dog litter named in honor of Gilbert and the Hortman family. Testimony from Helping Paws and service-dog graduate Angie Foley described the organization’s work, the significance of the “Guided by Gilbert” litter, and how the funding would help train dogs that provide independence and support to people with disabilities, veterans, and others. Members from both parties spoke warmly about Speaker Hortman’s connection to the organization and Gilbert, and the bill was laid over for possible inclusion. The committee then considered House File 3769, the Department of Corrections’ technical omnibus bill, with an A1 amendment adopted to clarify tuberculosis testing language. The bill updates TB screening procedures in correctional facilities, including how refusals are handled, and adds Quantiferon Gold Plus testing as an option alongside existing methods. Members discussed whether the bill would create costs for counties and jails, with some noting added testing and segregation costs and others arguing the changes would improve accuracy and reduce time in restrictive housing. The bill, as amended, was recommended to the general register. House File 3978 was next, a technical cleanup bill for a provider wellness program created last year. The bill expands eligibility and confidentiality protections from physicians to all health care providers, while supporters said the program is meant to address burnout and mental health strain in the workforce and does not require new money. Some members questioned whether the change was redundant or would broaden the program without additional funding, but the Minnesota Medical Association testified that the program is separate from insurance and was intended to serve all providers. The bill was recommended to the general register. Finally, the committee began House File 3476, which Rep. Liebling described as a cleanup bill related to Minnesota’s Medicaid managed care system and public program oversight. She argued that the state spends billions through managed care organizations and that the system has never been proven better than direct payment, setting up a broader discussion of the bill’s purpose and the state’s oversight of public health care spending.

Transcript Highlights:

• Ambulatory surgery centers are licensed under RSA 151, so the majority of them I think are freestanding
• <00:44:26.319> under Ambulatory Surgery C is licensed under Ambulatory Surgery C is licensed
• They are not probably included in these reports if they are under the hospital license, because those
• DHHS licenses septic designs and installations, but if a septic system is to fail, the health officer
• um septic designs and so Dees licenses um septic designs and installations<01:28:09.639> but<

Keywords: 928, house, all

Summary: The committee first handled organizational business, electing Representative Mark Pearson as chair for the coming term, appointing Representative Lucy Weber as clerk, and approving the November 22 minutes with abstentions from members who were absent. Members also noted excused absences for Senator Avard and Representative Jessica Lontine. After the vote, the committee moved to the DHHS commissioners’ update. DHHS associate commissioners Patricia Tilly and Chris Santinello described a process-improvement effort to improve transitions for youth moving from DCF care into adult developmental services and Medicaid. They said the old process was fragmented, dependent on personal relationships, and not sustainable, so staff from DCF, the Bureau of Family Assistance, Developmental Services, and public health used a Kaizen/Lean event to map the workflow, identify bottlenecks, clarify roles, and create a more consistent playbook. Members asked about IT support and whether the process would create new bureaucracy; DHHS said current systems are antiquated, especially DCF’s CWIS, but the goal is to streamline coordination, not add bureaucracy, and future systems like Granite Families may help with reminders and age-based ticklers. Several members praised the work, including a CASA volunteer who said the added attention has improved services for vulnerable youth. The committee then received the annual healthcare-associated infections update from Ctin Hansen of the Division of Public Health Services. Hansen reported that New Hampshire’s HAI program, created by statute, tracks infections in hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, dialysis centers, and long-term care facilities. For 2023, hospitals reported fewer infections than predicted nationally, with 135 infections statewide and 174 C. diff infections also below national rates; hospital influenza vaccination was 89.9%. Ambulatory surgery centers reported low infection counts and an 80.1% staff flu vaccination rate; dialysis centers reported fewer infections overall than the prior year but higher local access-site infections, with staff vaccination at 52.6%; and long-term care facilities reported a 50.1% flu vaccination rate, up from 37.8%. Hansen also said the program conducted over 100 investigations, handled 84 antibiotic-resistant organism reports, completed 20 infection-prevention assessments, and operated on a budget of about $348,000 plus grant funding, including an Epidemiology Laboratory Capacity Grant that was later reduced.