Video & Transcript Research : 'Japan'
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US
US Federal 2025-2026 Regular Session
Hearings to examine the nominations of Peter Hoekstra, of Michigan, to be Ambassador to Canada, George Glass, of Oregon, to be Ambassador to Japan, and Ronald Johnson, of Florida, to be Ambassador to the United Mexican States, all of the Department o Mar 13th, 2025 at 09:30 am
Foreign Relations Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Japan is stepping up its defense capabilities.
- Followed by Japan.
- Not only did the President reaffirm our unwavering commitment to defense of Japan, but importantly, Japan
- -Japan alliance.
- Japan. Japan is also a promising market for grain-based fuels.
Keywords:
U.S. foreign policy, Mexico relations, Japan relations, border security, trade agreements, drug trafficking, ambassadorial nominations, intergovernmental communication
Summary:
The meeting of the committee focused on critical discussions concerning U.S. foreign policy, particularly relationships with Mexico and Japan. Notable attention was given to border security, trade agreements, and implications of drug trafficking. Ambassadorial nominees discussed their strategies to strengthen ties with these nations, emphasizing the importance of cooperation in addressing mutual challenges, particularly concerning security and trade. The committee engaged in extensive dialogue, highlighting the urgency of improving intergovernmental communications to deter drug trafficking and support democratic governance.
HI
Hawaii 2026 Regular Session
PBS Info Briefing - Mon Apr 20, 2026 @ 2:00 PM HST
Hawaii House Floor Meeting
Keywords:
healthcare, rural clinic, feasibility study, access to care, community health, Volcano community, Hawaiʻi Health Systems Corporation, emergency services, health assessment, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders, health care, interdepartmental collaboration, public awareness, support services, education, health insurance, affordable healthcare, working group, Hawaii Health Plan, Medicaid expansion
HI
Hawaii 2026 Regular Session
House Chamber - Mon Apr 20, 2026, 12:00PM HST - Day 47
Hawaii House Floor Meeting
Keywords:
healthcare, rural clinic, feasibility study, access to care, community health, Volcano community, Hawaiʻi Health Systems Corporation, emergency services, health assessment, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders, health care, interdepartmental collaboration, public awareness, support services, education, health insurance, affordable healthcare, working group, Hawaii Health Plan, Medicaid expansion
HI
Hawaii 2026 Regular Session
ECD Public Hearing - Fri Apr 17, 2026 @ 8:30 AM HST
Economic Development & Technology
Transcript Highlights:
- There is a relationship with Fukuoka Prefecture in Japan with the Department of Health.
- Dennis, do you know how many sister-state relationships we have in Japan? Yes, we have six.
- There is a relationship with Fukuoka Prefecture in Japan with the Department of Health.
- ><00:12:46.720>
with <00:12:46.920>the <00:12:47.000>Department Prefecture in Japan - with the Department Prefecture in Japan with the Department of<00:12:47.720>
Health.
Keywords:
SCR184, Senate Concurrent Resolution 184, Hawaii Civil Rights Commission, HCRC, civil rights, anti-discrimination, algorithmic decision making, automated decision making, artificial intelligence, AI bias, machine learning, employment screening, tenant screening, housing discrimination, credit decisions, lending discrimination, public benefits eligibility, state services, equal opportunity, algorithmic discrimination
Summary:
The committee met in Room 430 on April 17 at 8:30 a.m. and heard several resolutions focused on Hawaii’s sister-state and international relationships. Measures discussed included SCR 184, SCR 169 SD1, SCR 47, SCR 57 SD1, SCR 170 SD1, and SCR 163 SD1. Testimony generally supported expanding or formalizing ties with Japanese prefectures and other partners, including Yamaguchi, Okayama, and Aotearoa/New Zealand, as well as maintaining the Hawaii-Taiwan relationship. DBED’s Dennis Ling explained that sister-state agreements provide a framework for broader government, nonprofit, and private-sector relationships, and cited existing exchanges in transportation, health, education, culinary rice development, biosecurity, and food innovation. Catherine Stanway of the Division of Forestry and Wildlife supported the Aotearoa measure for predator control, biosecurity, and conservation cooperation. Jerry Chang of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office testified in support of the Taiwan resolution, noting 33 years of sister-state ties and ongoing cooperation in education, culture, economy, and disaster management.
One witness raised a concern about language in SCR 57 SD1 related to double taxation, saying that portion did not relate to the sister-state relationship, but the committee chose not to amend the measure to avoid possible delay or conference issues. A committee member also asked about how sister-state relationships work and whether other states have similar country-level arrangements; Ling said Hawaii has an MOU with Israel and mentioned Singapore as another possible partner, while noting that such arrangements often depend on the governor and are not standardized across states.
After testimony, the committee voted to recommend passage of all measures as is. SCR 184, SCR 169 SD1, SCR 47, SCR 57 SD1, SCR 170 SD1, and SCR 163 SD1 were all adopted by the committee without amendments. Some members were excused during the hearing, and the meeting adjourned after the final vote.
KY
Kentucky 2026 Regular Session
House Legislative Session Day 16 (1-29-26)
Kentucky House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- , an honorary chair of the Japan America Society of Kentucky's 2026 board of directors. making Japan
- <00:32:58.720>
each billion dollars in goods to Japan each billion dollars in goods to Japan - ,<00:34:31.919>
an Watonab console general of Japan, an Watonab console general of Japan, - <00:34:34.079>
America honorary chair of the Japan America honorary chair of the Japan America - between Kentucky and Japan.
Keywords:
Convene 00:00
Senate Message 04:45
Calendar/2nd Readings 05:20
Report of Committees 07:05
Orders of the Day 08:23
HB 214 08:33
HB 416 12:26
HB 281 16:20
HB 134 18:13
Motions, Petitions, and Communications 21:08
Introduction of New Bills and Resolutions 37:01
Recess for ConC/Rules Meeting 39:15
ConC/Rules Report 42:29
Floor Amendments 44:27
Correction to Introduction of New Bills and Resolutions 46:14
Adjournment 46:40, 958, all
Summary:
The House convened, heard an invocation focused on recovery from a recent storm, and recited the Pledge of Allegiance. A quorum was established with 94 members present, absent members were excused, and the rules were suspended to allow co-sponsorships and vote modifications. The journal was approved, and the clerk reported a Senate message transmitting Senate Joint Resolution 23 for concurrence.
The chamber then received second-reading reports on a wide range of bills covering pharmacist reimbursements, grooming a minor, local government liability, water fluoridation, solid waste, highway markings, fiduciary bonds, motor vehicle titles, hearing aid coverage, eating disorder coverage, public safety, pedestrians, cigar bars, backyard chickens, and county law libraries. Committee reports also advanced several bills, including measures on elections, local government, state-operated mental health facilities, prescription drugs, Alzheimer’s services, electric generating unit decommissioning costs, reemployment of retired police officers, and the Kentucky Communications Network Authority. Those favorable reports were treated as first readings and placed on the calendar.
The House passed several bills unanimously by roll call, including House Bill 214 on a program to help disabled veterans obtain and install home wheelchair ramps, House Bill 416 on educator preparation and early assessments, House Bill 281 on streamlining food donations by churches and nonprofits for shelters and disaster victims, and House Bill 134 on sexual assault nurse examiners, creating a statewide coordinator, registry, and regional access plan. In each case, sponsors explained the bills and members voiced support; floor amendment 1 to House Bill 416 was adopted before passage. Clinchers were applied after passage of the bills.
The House also adopted House Resolution 33 recognizing cancer patients, survivors, and families and designating January 29, 2026 as Suits and Sneakers Day, and adopted House Resolution 43 recognizing the economic and cultural partnership between Kentucky and Japan. Members offered additional citations honoring Newport Central Catholic High School and the YMCA, and the chamber observed a moment of silence for Boone County Sheriff Michael Helmig after a citation honoring his service and legacy. Announcements included committee meetings after adjournment, birthday wishes, and the introduction of numerous new bills and resolutions, including measures on kindergarten, bridges, revenue, retirement benefits, concealed deadly weapons, local taxes, motor vehicles, fiscal reporting, SNAP, families and children, vision testing, and a balanced budget amendment application.
CA
California 2025-2026 Regular Session
Assembly Select Committee on Asia/California Trade and Investment Aug 20th, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- The Japan Business Association of Southern California, JBA.
- Your visit to Japan will provide clues to enhance economic relations between Japan and California.
- Your visit to Japan will provide clues to enhance economic relations between Japan and California.
- We have offices in China, Japan, South Korea, and India.
- We like to compete with Japan on the economy.
Summary:
The Assembly Select Committee on Asia, California, Trade and Investment held its first informational hearing to examine California’s economic ties with Asia, the effects of federal tariffs, and ways the state can strengthen trade, investment, tourism, and subnational diplomacy. Chair Jessica Caloza opened by emphasizing California’s role as the world’s fourth-largest economy and a major exporter to Asia, and several members and guests highlighted the importance of AAPI communities, sister-city relationships, and coordinated state outreach. Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis described California’s trade missions, APEC hosting, and ongoing climate and trade partnerships, while Japan’s deputy consul general underscored Japan’s role as a major investor and trading partner and encouraged continued engagement.
The first panel, featuring leaders from the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation/World Trade Center Los Angeles, the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce, and Visit California, focused on trade, tourism, and investment trends. Witnesses said tariffs and federal uncertainty are disrupting logistics, manufacturing, business travel, higher education, and tourism, with particular concern about port activity, international student declines, and reduced visitation from Asia. They urged California to remain “open for business,” invest in promotion and infrastructure, and use trade missions, MOUs, and sister-city ties to maintain relationships and attract investment.
The second panel, with economist Kyle Handley and trade expert Glenn Fukushima, focused on the mechanics and consequences of tariffs. Both said tariffs function as taxes on importers and consumers, raise costs for businesses, and create uncertainty that delays investment, hiring, and supply-chain decisions. They warned that California is especially exposed because of its ports, cross-border trade, and reliance on global supply chains, and said new federal vessel fees and shifting trade routes could divert commerce away from California. They argued that the long-term damage includes lost growth and reduced U.S. credibility, and recommended that California “tariff-proof” its economy through faster ports, better infrastructure, export assistance, and reduced permitting barriers.
In the final panel, representatives from the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce, Asian Business Association California, and the Small Business Development Center emphasized future opportunities and the needs of small businesses. They said California should deepen ties with Asia through conventions, tourism, and sector-specific partnerships in life sciences, clean tech, semiconductors, hospitality, and small business trade. The witnesses stressed that small and minority-owned businesses need more access to trade missions, capital, technical assistance, and state support, and that California’s economic strength depends on coordinated efforts across regions and industries.
AL
Transcript Highlights:
- last year we formed the Alabama Japan last year we formed the Alabama Japan caucus or the legislative
- and and groups representing Japan and and groups representing Japan and they're very excited to meet
- MAA counil general of Japan in Mr Mio MAA counil general of Japan in Mr Mio MAA counil general of Japan
- Japan day with presentations and p.m. Japan day with presentations and p.m.
- reception our Japan day reception back reception our Japan day reception back reception our Japan day
VT
Transcript Highlights:
- Japan earthquake. Japan earthquake.
- events and their impact on Japan.
- events and their impact on Japan.
- with Japan.
- relationship between Vermont and Japan relationship between Vermont and Japan to<00:21:34.080>
Summary:
The House opened with a devotional and the Pledge of Allegiance, then moved through first readings and referrals of several bills. House Bill 950, the pay act for certain state employees, was read and referred to Appropriations, and House Bill 951, the government appropriations bill, was read and referred to Ways and Means. Senate bills referred included S. 138 on commercial property assessed clean energy projects, S. 181 on eliminating a pre-sentence investigation requirement for deferred sentences, S. 206 on licensure of early childhood educators, S. 219 on an energy navigator program report, S. 239 on the Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Working Group, and S. 291 on travel disclosures for legislators and certain executive officers, each sent to the appropriate committee.
The chamber also read several House concurrent resolutions adopted on the consent calendar. These included resolutions congratulating Rice Memorial High School’s Division Two girls soccer team and Division One field hockey team, designating March 2026 as Athletic Trainers Month in Vermont, and remembering the 2011 Tohoku earthquake, tsunami, and nuclear disasters in Japan. The Japan remembrance resolution included a message from the Japanese consul general expressing gratitude for Vermont’s solidarity and friendship after the disaster.
Later, members offered announcements recognizing guests in the gallery, including Rice Memorial athletes and coaches, representatives of the Vermont Association of Athletic Trainers, and students and teachers from Pondbrook and Sterling College. The House also heard a detailed floor speech in support of House Bill 861, which would establish a statewide Americans with Disabilities Act Coordinator. The sponsor described accessibility barriers faced by disabled Vermonters, argued that ADA responsibilities are currently uneven across state government, and said a coordinator would improve coordination, compliance, and access across agencies. The House then announced the order of upcoming bills, starting with H. 861 and H. 931, but no final vote on H. 861 was taken in the portion provided.
HI
Hawaii 2025 Regular Session
TCA-EDT, EDT, EDT-CPN Public Hearings 03-13-2025
Transcript Highlights:
- And we have office in Japan. We do not have an office in Japan.
- And we have office in Japan. We do not have an office in Japan.
- And we have office in Japan. We do not have an office in Japan.
- And we have office in Japan. We do not have an office in Japan.
- And we have an office in Japan. We do not have an office in Japan.
Summary:
The joint committees on Transportation and Culture and the Arts and Economic Development and Tourism heard three measures. HB 450, which would transfer the State Foundation on Culture and the Arts to the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism, drew support from DBEDT, the State Foundation, the Hawaii Arts Alliance, DAGs, and individuals. Members asked about the bill’s purpose and the relationship between arts administration and international/cultural considerations. The committees voted to pass HB 450 with amendments, including a housekeeping change allowing specific legislative direction in narrow cases; the measure was adopted with unanimous or near-unanimous votes.
HB 437, relating to out-of-state offices, received testimony in support from DBEDT and representatives of the Filipino Chamber of Commerce and another individual. The discussion focused on whether an overseas office in the Philippines was the best use of funds, given existing offices and trade relationships in places like Beijing and Taiwan. Members questioned the return on investment, fiscal priorities, and whether DBEDT had a broader strategic plan for selecting markets. The committees ultimately passed HB 437 with a Senate Draft 1 and technical amendments, with some members voting with reservations.
HB 1391, relating to trade and creating a Hawaii-Ireland trade commission, also advanced after a lengthy discussion. DBEDT said it offered comments rather than a firm recommendation and explained that the bill appeared intended to build economic ties with Europe through Ireland, but members questioned why a commission was needed, how it would be structured, and whether similar efforts should focus on other countries. DBEDT said it would provide reports on sister-state relationships and office performance, and noted that trade initiatives would likely require private-sector participation. The committees passed HB 1391 with amendments and reservations from some members.
US
US Federal 2025-2026 Regular Session
Closed hearings to examine the posture of United States Indo-Pacific Command and United States Forces Korea in review of the Defense Authorization Request for fiscal year 2026 and the Future Years Defense Program; to be immediately followed by an ope Apr 10th, 2025 at 07:00 am
Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Personnel
Transcript Highlights:
- Many observers fear that President Trump may shrink the U.S. troop presence in Korea and Japan.
- , despite the fact that Korea and Japan contribute significantly to burden sharing and hostility.
- If we withdrew our support from Taiwan, would that incentivize Japan and South Korea to develop?
- Japan, 25% tariff on Japan. Why 25%?
- Japan is 15% of global shipbuilding. The United States of America is 1% of shipbuilding.
Keywords:
Indo-Pacific Command, U.S. military strategy, China military drills, Taiwan, Philippines, North Korea, defense budget, military modernization
Summary:
The meeting focused on significant strategic discussions regarding the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command and its military posture in the region. Admiral Paparo and General Brunson were commended for their services, with the Chair noting an alarming shift in the balance of power towards China. Key topics included China's aggressive military drills near Taiwan, the increasing coercion against the Philippines, and the need for the U.S. to reaffirm its commitments to its allies in the region. Concerns were raised regarding China's military modernization and its implications for U.S. forces, alongside discussions on North Korea's threats and its burgeoning nuclear capabilities. The committee emphasized the urgent need for military and defense appropriations to counteract these growing security challenges.
HI
Transcript Highlights:
- Foundation on Culture and the Arts and appropriate stakeholders representing Hawaiʻi and Japan.
- peace Pacific peace Monument um Japan peace Pacific peace Monument um establishes<00:24:45.760>
a - <00:24:45.919>
Hawaii <00:24:46.360>Japan <00:24:47.159>PE <00:24:47.559> - Pacific establishes a Hawaii Japan PE Pacific establishes a Hawaii Japan PE Pacific peace<00:24:48.320
- um I only have one Hawaii and Japan um I only have one testifier<00:25:00.120>
on <00:25:00.240
Summary:
The Committee on Culture and the Arts met on March 14, 2025, and heard two measures. On SB 441 SD1, relating to the Hawaiʻi Symphony Orchestra, the committee received strong support from the orchestra, the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi, IATSE Local 665, and an in-person testifier, with testimony emphasizing statewide access to music, education and community programming, cultural value, economic impact, and job stability for musicians and staff. The Attorney General’s office offered comments and suggested language related to the State Endowment Fund. Committee members asked about how the funding would be used, the orchestra’s reach, and its history; the orchestra said it preferred direct operating support and described its audience and employment footprint, neighbor-island outreach, and plans to expand season length and education programs.
The committee then heard SB 1581 SD1, relating to the Hawaiʻi Japan Pacific Peace Monument. No testifier from the State Foundation on Culture and the Arts was present, and no one testified on Zoom. With no discussion from witnesses, the measure was briefly taken up and later advanced.
In decision-making, the committee adopted amendments to SB 441 SD1, including a preamble describing legislative intent and the orchestra’s history, references to the State of Hawaiʻi endowment fund and statewide public benefits, and language ensuring the funds support statewide purposes and neighbor-island access to music and educational opportunities. The committee also added a deferral date of July 1, 3000 and technical amendments, then voted to pass the measure with amendments. SB 1581 SD1 was also passed forward with amendments, including a July 1, 3000 deferral date and technical changes, and the meeting adjourned.
HI
Bills:
SCR47, SCR21, SCR163, SCR169, SCR170, SCR50, SCR75, SCR149, HCR83, HCR111, HCR110, HCR122, HCR118, HCR61, HCR162, HCR36, HCR19, HCR106, HCR14, HCR178, SB3022, SB3102, SB3144
Keywords:
sister-state, Hawaii, Okayama, Japan, cultural exchange, economic partnership, tourism, agriculture, international relations, healthcare, rural clinic, feasibility study, access to care, community health, Volcano community, Hawaiʻi Health Systems Corporation, emergency services, health assessment, Pacific Inter-Parliamentary Assembly, Legislative Cooperation
US
US Federal 2025-2026 Regular Session
Business meeting to consider the nominations of Warren Stephens, of Arkansas, to be Ambassador to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Thomas Barrack, of Colorado, to be Ambassador to the Republic of Turkey, Tilman Fertitta, of Apr 9th, 2025 at 08:30 am
Foreign Relations Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- -South Korea-Japan relationship.
- And also, Senator, thank you for your service as ambassador to Japan previously and the work you did
- Senator, as you said, this relationship, the trilateral relationship between the United States, Japan
- They are bringing Japan to us.
- Would you call our contacts, your contacts in Japan and South Korea?
Keywords:
Senator Flinstone, HB22, SB4, amendments, public testimony, legislation, environmental impact, economic implications
Summary:
The meeting featured a thorough examination of various bills, including substantial discussions on HB22 and SB4. Key points included amendments proposed by committee members, particularly from Senator Flinstone, who emphasized the need for clarifications on certain provisions. The committee actively engaged with several witnesses providing public testimony, some in favor of the proposed legislation while others highlighted concerns and potential implications. The discussions were vibrant, showcasing different perspectives, especially on the environmental and economic impacts of the bills in question. The meeting concluded with a consensus to reconvene after a recess to further address the outstanding issues related to the bills.
WV
West Virginia 2026 Regular Session
WV Senate Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Mar 11th, 2026 at 09:00 am
Transportation and Infrastructure
Transcript Highlights:
- are not eligible to vote in the state through the DMV, authorizes the commissioner to set fees, adds Japan
- It adds Japan to the list of authorized foreign countries in addition to Ireland, and it makes other
- We have one in Japan that's been very active and successful.
- Yeah, I'll add, I really appreciate how the Senate has added Japan.
- I know we've had a long-standing relationship with Japan.
Summary:
The Senate Transportation and Infrastructure Committee met, established quorum, and approved the minutes from its March 9, 2026 meeting. The committee then took up the engrossed committee substitute for House Bill 4577, which would authorize the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles to enter reciprocal driver’s license agreements with Ireland and Japan, provided those countries’ licensing standards are at least as stringent as West Virginia’s. The bill also requires drivers using recognized foreign licenses to carry insurance and comply with state financial responsibility laws, bars DMV-based voter registration for foreign citizens, authorizes fees and rulemaking, and includes a strike-and-insert amendment and title amendment.
A DMV representative explained that the measure would let citizens of the participating countries avoid retaking written and skills tests when transferring licenses, while also allowing West Virginians similar treatment abroad. Delegate Mike Hornby, the bill’s sponsor, said the proposal was intended to support economic development and trade relationships, especially with Ireland, and noted that similar reciprocity already exists with other countries and some other states. Senators asked about the practical impact, including whether it would affect tourists or long-term workers, and the sponsor emphasized that the bill was aimed mainly at people establishing residence and working between West Virginia and partner countries.
The committee adopted the strike-and-insert amendment, then voted to report House Bill 4577, as amended, with a recommendation that it do pass. The title amendment was also adopted, and the committee then adjourned.
WV
West Virginia 2026 Regular Session
WV Senate Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Mar 11th, 2026 at 09:00 am
Transcript Highlights:
- It adds Japan to the list of authorized foreign countries in addition to Ireland, and it makes other
- It adds Japan to the list of authorized foreign countries in addition to Ireland, and it makes other
- We have one in Japan that's been very active and successful.
- Yeah, I'll add, I really appreciate how the Senate has added Japan.
- I know we've had a long-standing relationship with Japan.
Summary:
The Senate Transportation and Infrastructure Committee met, approved the March 9, 2026 minutes, and then took up the engrossed committee substitute for House Bill 4577 relating to driver's licenses. Counsel explained that the bill would authorize the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles to enter reciprocal agreements with Ireland and Japan to recognize each other’s driver’s licenses, provided the foreign licensing standards are at least as stringent as West Virginia’s. The bill also requires drivers using recognized foreign licenses to carry insurance and comply with state financial responsibility laws, clarifies that foreign license holders are not eligible to register to vote through the DMV, and allows the commissioner to set related fees and adopt rules. A strike-and-insert amendment and a title amendment were adopted.
The committee heard from DMV counsel Adam Hawley and the bill’s House sponsor, Delegate Mike Hornby. Hawley said the measure would allow citizens of the listed countries to avoid retaking written and skills tests when transferring licenses, and noted West Virginia already has similar arrangements with Taiwan, South Korea, and Germany. Hornby said the bill was intended to support economic development and trade ties, especially with Ireland, where American workers and companies face licensing hurdles; he said Ireland had requested state-level reciprocity and that Japan was added because of West Virginia’s existing trade relationship there. Several senators expressed support, describing the bill as a symbolic and practical step toward foreign investment and job creation.
After discussion, the committee voted to report the engrossed committee substitute for House Bill 4577, as amended, with a recommendation that it do pass. The title amendment was then adopted, and the committee adjourned.
WY
Transcript Highlights:
- I was fortunate enough this year to go over to Japan and Taiwan, meet with our partners over there on
- I was fortunate enough this year to go over to Japan and Taiwan, meet with our partners over there on
- One thing I'd point out is President Trump's trade deal with Japan included that the country of Japan
- One thing I'd point out is President Trump's trade deal with Japan included that the country of Japan
- One thing I'd point out is President Trump's trade deal with Japan included that the country of Japan
CA
California 2025-2026 Regular Session
Assembly Floor Session Jun 25th, 2026
California House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- and California-based businesses that help strengthen economic ties between Japan and our beautiful state
- Japan remains, and Commerce Committee Vice Chair of JBA.
- and California-based businesses that help strengthen economic ties between Japan and our beautiful state
- Japan remains, ...and contributing to the vitality of our economy.
- Japan remains one of California's most important economic partners, investing nearly $16 billion in our
Summary:
The Assembly convened after a quorum call, prayer, and Pledge of Allegiance, then handled a series of procedural motions to re-refer bills, suspend rules, and remove items from the consent calendar. The chamber also heard guest introductions recognizing family milestones, a youth leadership program from Assembly District 13, a delegation of Japanese business leaders, and a Michoacan delegation. Later, members adopted several resolutions and consent items, including California Craft Beer Week, the Freedom Flag as a 9/11 remembrance symbol, Probation Services Week, and California Wildfire Week, along with other consent-calendar measures.
The main floor debate centered on SB 417, a $10 billion housing bond for the ballot, with supporters emphasizing the state’s housing shortage, homelessness crisis, and funding for multifamily housing, supportive housing, homeownership, farmworker housing, student housing, tribal housing, infrastructure, and preservation of existing affordable units. Opponents criticized the proposal as adding debt without enough reform and objected to the use of veterans in the measure’s messaging. The Assembly passed SB 417 on urgency and on the measure, 54-7, and sent it to the Senate. Members then adopted ACA 20, which would expand and modernize the state Rainy Day Fund by increasing its cap and changing deposit rules; it passed 54-8 and was transmitted to the Senate.
The Assembly also approved SB 623, a transportation-related bill addressing rideshare safety and medical lien practices. Supporters said it would curb abusive billing, restrict attorney conflicts and kickbacks, require stronger background checks for TNC drivers, and allow women riders and drivers to request women-only matches. The measure passed unanimously, 67-0. Later, the House adopted ACA 21, which removes ACA 13 from the November ballot, by 62-0, and ACA 22, which amends a ballot measure affecting taxation and local fiscal resources, by 64-0. The session concluded with an adjournment in memory of Dr. Dorothy Viola Calvin, followed by announcements, recesses, and final adjournment until the next scheduled floor session.
HI
Transcript Highlights:
- Japan legalized in 2018 and they still may not fully open its first major resort until 2030. Okay?
- Honestly, Japan kind of feels relatable there.
- [clears throat] Japan is also complicated because all although most forms of gambling remain heavily
- I felt that the IR discussion... ...felt that the IR discussion, particularly as it relates to Japan,
- Comparing Singapore and Japan or... About Hawaii and Singapore. Yeah.
CA
California 2025-2026 Regular Session
Assembly Floor Session Jun 25th, 2026
California House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- and California-based businesses that help strengthen economic ties between Japan and our beautiful state
- Japan remains one of California's most important economic partners, investing nearly $16 billion in our
- and California-based businesses that help strengthen economic ties between Japan and our beautiful state
- Japan remains, ...and contributing to the vitality of our economy.
- Japan remains one of California's most important economic partners, investing nearly $16 billion in our
HI
Transcript Highlights:
- Japan is going to be better this year than before, especially Japan.
- this year than before especially Japan this year than before especially Japan the<01:04:33.920><
- U.S. is 3.5% higher, but Japan is 45.1%.
- U.S. is 3.5% higher, but Japan is 45.1%.
- is 3.5% higher but Japan is 3.5% higher but Japan 45.1%<01:17:38.960>
Canada <01:17:39.760