Transcript Highlights:

• The next item on the agenda is House Bill 211 sponsored by Representative Lewis.
• The next item on the agenda is House Bill 211 sponsored by Representative Lewis.
• The next item on the agenda is House Bill 211 sponsored by Representative Lewis.
• Uh, Chris Lewis, Representative from House District 29.
• having me today uh Chris Lewis having me today uh Chris Lewis representative<00:16:19.720> from

Keywords: Meeting Start: 00:05 Attendance Roll Call: 00:17 HB 30 (Rep. Blanton): 01:12 HB 27 (Rep. Osborne: 05:22 HB 45 (Rep. Hodgson): 08:29 HB 211 (Rep. C. Lewis): 15:54 HB 441 (Rep. Tipton): 36:38 Adjournment: 41:20, 958, all

Summary: The Senate State and Local Government Committee met and first took up House Bill 30, which addresses pension spiking and retired state troopers returning to work. The sponsor and Kentucky Public Pensions Authority staff said the bill would codify court language clarifying that across-the-board raises from the General Assembly do not count as pension spiking, and the committee substitute would also give retired troopers rehired on a year-to-year basis the same vacation, sick leave, and bereavement benefits as new troopers. The committee adopted the substitute and a title amendment, and HB 30 passed 9-0. The committee then considered House Bill 27, which removes an arbitrary 2023 date from the Planned Communities Act that had created confusion over political signage rules in HOA and planned community phases. The sponsor said the change would preserve HOA authority to regulate sign size, duration, and placement while eliminating inconsistent treatment of neighboring properties. The bill passed 10-0. House Bill 45 followed, proposing to ban foreign funding in Kentucky elections and ballot measures and to require disclosure for express advocacy ads related to ballot measures. Supporters said the bill would put ballot measures on the same footing as candidate and PAC restrictions and prevent foreign nationals from influencing Kentucky elections; one senator raised concerns that the language could unintentionally chill participation by noncitizens, especially in one-on-one discussions, and the sponsor said he would work on that issue. The committee adopted the bill as amended, and it passed 8-1. The final major item was House Bill 211, which would create a narrow exemption allowing cigar bars under defined conditions, including a revenue threshold, age restrictions, ventilation requirements, and local permitting options. The sponsor said the bill would not roll back general smoke-free laws but would allow tightly regulated cigar bars and grandfather existing ones from some requirements. Public health witnesses, including a nurse, a physician, and a thoracic surgeon, opposed the bill, warning it would weaken strong smoke-free protections, harm workers and patrons, and reverse progress against tobacco-related disease. The transcript provided did not include a final vote on HB 211.

Keywords: KY LRC YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jvja9daCy9E, 2026-06-21T07:17:03+00:00, 2.2.24, Data collected via generic collector engine, MEET START 00:00 ROLL CALL 00:13 DISCUSSION WITH THE EDUCATION AND LABOR CABINET WORKER’S CLAIMS DIVISION, SHELBY LEWIS, LEGISLATIVE DIRECTOR, SCOTT WILHOIT, COMMISSIONER OF THE DEPT. OF WORKER’S CLAIMS, AND DALE HAMLIN, ASSISTANT GENERAL COUNSEL ON AN OVERVIEW OF WORKER’S CLAIMS, GENERAL STATISTICS, EMPLOYERS, BENEFITS DETERMINATIONS, FUNDING, AND 2023 APPROPRIATIONS 01:02 APPROVAL OF MINUTES 47:29, 958, all, 2.2.42, 2.1.47

Keywords: HI Senate YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pyHQgbx6HQk, 2026-07-02T01:22:43+00:00, 2.2.24, Data collected via generic collector engine, Ka ‘Aha Kenekoa THE SENATE Ka ‘Aha ‘Ōlelo Kanakolu THE THIRTIETH LEGISLATURE ‘Aha Kau Kānāwai 2020 REGULAR SESSION OF 2020 Ke Kōmike ‘Enehana COMMITTEE ON TECHNOLOGY Kenekoa/Senator Jarrett Keohokalole, Luna Ho‘omalu/Chair Kenekoa/Senator J. Kalani English, Hope Luna Ho‘omalu/Vice Chair Ke Kōmike Hana Aupuni COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS Kenekoa/Senator Laura H. Thielen, Luna Ho‘omalu/Chair Kenekoa/Senator Lorraine R. Inouye, Hope Luna Ho‘omalu/Vice Chair ‘Ōlelo Ho‘olaha No Ka ‘Aha Ho‘olohe NOTICE OF HEARING Lā / DATE: Pō‘alua, Pepeluali 11, 2020/ Tuesday, February 11, 2020 Hola / TIME: 1:00 PM Wahi / PLACE: Lumi ‘Aha Kūkā 229 / Conference Room 229 Ke Kapikala Moku‘āina / State Capitol 415 South Beretania Street Papa Kumuhana A G E N D A SB 62, SD1 (SSCR2422) Status & Testimony RELATING TO TECHNOLOGY. Requires the legislature, state departments, and boards and commissions to livestream its public hearings and develop procedures for receiving remote testimony. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1) TEC/GVO, WAM Inā lawa ka manawa, e ho‘oholo mana‘o ma hope pono. Decision Making to follow, if time permits., 912, senate, all, 2.2.42, 2.1.47

Keywords: HI Senate YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iS0VbQIk5fQ, 2026-07-02T01:22:43+00:00, 2.2.24, Data collected via generic collector engine, Scheduled for February 4, 2020: Ke Kōmike ‘Enehana COMMITTEE ON TECHNOLOGY Kenekoa/Senator Jarrett Keohokalole, Luna Ho‘omalu/Chair Kenekoa/Senator J. Kalani English, Hope Luna Ho‘omalu/Vice Chair Ke Kōmike Hana Aupuni COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS Kenekoa/Senator Laura H. Thielen, Luna Ho‘omalu/Chair Kenekoa/Senator Lorraine R. Inouye, Hope Luna Ho‘omalu/Vice Chair ‘Ōlelo Ho‘olaha No Ka ‘Aha Ho‘olohe NOTICE OF HEARING Lā / DATE: Pō‘alua,Pepeluali 4, 2020 / Tuesday, February 4, 2020 Hola / TIME: 3:45 p.m. Wahi / PLACE: Lumi ‘Aha Kūkā 225 / Conference Room 225 Ke Kapikala Moku‘āina / State Capitol 415 South Beretania Street Papa Kumuhana A G E N D A SB 3031 RELATING TO INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY. Requires the department of accounting and general services and the department of budget and finance, in consultation with the office of enterprise technology services, to develop and implement a uniform financial database, with parameters, benefits, and features that are compatible to the software system currently being implemented by the office of enterprise technology services at other agencies for use by all state agencies. Appropriates funds. TEC/GVO, WAM No Ka ‘Ike ‘Ē A‘e, E Kelepona Aku I Ke Kākau ‘Ōlelo Kōmike Ma (808) 587-7217. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CALL THE COMMITTEE CLERK AT (808) 587-7217., 912, senate, all, 2.2.42, 2.1.47

Keywords: HI Senate YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q8tQ_IM11lI, 2026-07-02T01:22:43+00:00, 2.2.24, Data collected via generic collector engine, This video was aired on Olelo Channel 49 on April 9th, 2020. Footage courtesy of Olelo Community Media. Agenda The special committee will convene to assess and advise the Senate regarding the State of Hawaii's COVID-19 plans and procedures to include, but not limited to: 1) Confirm the development of the state departmental plans and procedures; 2) Review and assess current state departmental plans and procedures; 3) Review and assess whether state departmental plans and procedures are properly and timely implemented to safeguard public health and safety; and 4) To communicate and disseminate information obtained therefrom. The special committee will be meeting with the following: 11:00 a.m. Department of Labor and Industrial Relations Mr. Scott Murakami, Director 12:00 p.m. Governor's Coordinator on Homelessness Mr. Scott Morishige Behavioral Health Services Administration Mr. Edward Mersereau, Deputy Director Partners in Care Ms. Laura E. Thielen, Executive Director 1:00 p.m. Releasing of incarcerated persons Honorable Daniel Foley (Ret.), Special Master 2:00 p.m. Department of Public Safety Mr. Nolan Espinda, Director Please note that there may be committee members or invited speakers participating remotely via video or teleconference. Meeting of the Special Committee Senate State of Hawaii COVID-19 Friday, March 27, 2020 The meeting will be available for live viewing on Olelo Channel 49 on Oahu and will go out live for pick up by neighbor island public access channels. It will also be live-streamed via http://olelo.granicus.com/ViewPublisher.php?view_id=13. No public testimony will be accepted. If you require special assistance, please call 586-6800 or email your request to waysandmeans@capitol.hawaii.gov. -End of Agenda-, 912, senate, all, 2.2.42, 2.1.47

Transcript Highlights:

• Donna Havarish Lewis, who served as a beacon at the Reggie Lewis Center in many different capacities,
• As you all know, the Reggie Lewis Center is a community center.
• RCC cannot continue to subsidize the Regg Lewis Center with funding.
• Lewis. There's also a lot of Mr. Lewis, and she's going to—great. Oh, great.
• So let me just say that my name is Laura G.

Keywords: 995, all

Summary: The Joint Committee on Higher Education heard testimony on a wide range of bills touching student access, campus safety, and institutional support. Early testimony focused on H. 4544, which would create a state Hispanic-serving institution designation to replace a lost federal designation and potentially allow future funding. Representative Kushmerek and Fitchburg State President Donna Hodge described Fitchburg’s growing Latino student population, the university’s local commitments such as the Fitchburg Promise, and argued the bill would help the institution better serve its community. Committee members asked about how the tuition-free local program is financed, and the bill was described as having no immediate funding request but allowing for future appropriations. The committee also heard support for H. 1421, a proposed John F. Kennedy Service Scholarship Program for Peace Corps, AmeriCorps, and Commonwealth Corps alumni, with Representative Arena DeRosa arguing that student debt discourages service and that the program would help make citizen service more accessible to lower- and moderate-income students. Members raised questions about cost, take-up, and whether the program should be capped. H. 1449, dealing with transcript withholding, drew support from Representative LeBoeuf and USPyre’s Demi Stoltz, who said withholding transcripts over small balances or non-academic fees traps students and harms workforce participation; members discussed how schools could still collect debts without blocking transcripts. The committee also heard testimony on a bill to improve study-abroad safety reporting, with Carrie Pascarello urging a centralized data system after multiple student deaths and serious incidents abroad, and members asking about how other states handle similar transparency measures. Another major topic was H. 4113 on higher education sexual misconduct. Laura G. and Ashley Freeman supported a proposal aimed at preventing “passing the harasser” by requiring disclosure of substantiated findings or departures during open investigations in hiring processes. They said the bill would improve transparency and campus safety while preserving due process, and noted Washington State has a similar law. Members discussed whether the bill should be expanded to K-12 settings and asked about the Washington model’s effectiveness. The committee also heard from Mike Canavan of AFT Massachusetts in support of a bill to create a grant program for librarians to earn a master’s in library science, noting the credential is required for the profession but is not offered by any public institution in Massachusetts. No votes were taken, and the hearing concluded after all scheduled witnesses testified.

Transcript Highlights:

• Representative Shar Lewis here. At this time, we have two bills to consider.
• Winer Vice shared Klein here Shar Winer Vice shared Klein here Shar Lewis Lewis Lewis here<00:01:26.159
• that good morning uh my name is Laura that good morning uh my name is Laura Benelli<00:02:14.040
• Chair Lewis, yes.
• <00:47:13.079> uh representative Winer yes chair Lewis uh representative Winer yes chair Lewis

Keywords: The previous live stream for this committee experienced a technical issue. This is the complete meeting recording recovered from backups., 958, all

Summary: The committee first took up House Bill 44, “Landon’s Law,” sponsored by Rep. Candy Massaroni. The bill would allow schools to keep anti-choking devices such as LifeVac on hand while limiting liability. Testimony from Equal First Aid and LifeVac emphasized that choking is a leading cause of death for children, that the devices are noninvasive and FDA-registered, and that updated Red Cross guidance allows their use when standard rescue protocols fail or are not feasible. Lauren McCubbins, Landon McCubbin’s mother, gave emotional testimony about her 8-year-old son’s death from choking at school and urged the committee to give schools an added rescue option. Members asked questions about how the device works, whether the Heimlich maneuver remains part of the protocol, and whether the bill is limited to LifeVac or applies to similar devices. The bill was reported favorably, with a roll call vote showing unanimous support from members present. The committee then heard a bill sponsored by Rep. J. Baker aimed at reducing administrative burdens in schools and supporting teacher recruitment and retention. The measure would lengthen the required evaluation cycle for tenured teachers from every three years to every five years, provide teachers a copy of their employment contract upon request, streamline professional development provisions, update continuous school improvement plan filing requirements, restore schools’ ability to use Title II funds for certain programs after an unintended consequence of prior legislation, and require KDE to review reporting requirements and eliminate those not required by law. Rep. Baker said the bill was developed with teachers and administrators through a working group and is intended to reduce “check-the-box” tasks so educators can focus on instruction. Amanda Butler of Spencer County Schools and other educators testified that the changes would save time, preserve funding for mentor and induction programs, and reduce repetitive paperwork. Rep. Fleming asked for clarification on the longer evaluation cycle, and an educator witness explained that each evaluation involves pre-observation, observation, and post-observation time and that districts would still retain flexibility to evaluate more often if needed. No final vote on this bill was included in the transcript excerpt.

Transcript Highlights:

• Rose Lanos or Laura Fisher. Hello, Mr. Chairman. My name is Rose Yanos.
• My name is Laura Fisher. Okay. I'm sorry, what? My name is Laura Fisher.
• Bentley Stewart, Laura B., Lewis Salazar, and Autumn Franks.
• Laura B. Great. Sounds good. Laura B. You state your last name for the record, please.
• Sage Lewis waives in opposition. Okay, members, anyone wishing to speak.

Summary: The committee first confirmed Heather L. Turnbull to the Florida Commission on Community Service, with the motion adopted and the confirmation recommended favorably. Members then took up SPB 7022, which sets Florida Retirement System employer contribution rates beginning July 1, 2025, updates rates to address unfunded actuarial liability, and allows certain elected officers to elect a DROP accumulation; a technical title amendment was adopted, the bill was submitted as a committee bill, and it was reported favorably as a committee bill. The committee then heard extensive debate and public testimony on SB 1710, which would restrict diversity, equity, and inclusion-related policies, trainings, and activities in state agencies, state-funded contractors and grantees, and medical institutions of higher education. Sponsor Senator DiCeglie said the bill is intended to prevent state agencies and contractors from using state funds for DEI programs and to limit state agencies from adopting DEI-related official positions; he also said the medical-school portion would likely be amended out later. Senator Polsky and others questioned the bill’s breadth and how it would affect health-related grants, public universities, historically Black institutions, recruitment, and contractor training. Public testimony was overwhelmingly opposed, with speakers arguing the bill would harm health care, education, access, and inclusion; a few supporters said DEI is ideological, can undermine merit, and should not be used by state agencies or publicly funded institutions. After debate, Senator Polsky argued the bill was confusing, overbroad, and harmful to serving diverse communities, while Senator Arrington said it was an overreach into private business and could have significant fiscal impacts. Chair Fine closed by saying DEI is political ideology and that the bill is meant to ensure government focuses on talent rather than identity. SB 1710 was then reported favorably on a roll call vote, with Senator Arrington voting no and the remaining members voting yes. The committee then began SB 1678, relating to entities that boycott Israel, and heard the sponsor’s explanation of a delete-all amendment that would expand and clarify state restrictions on dealings with entities engaged in boycotts of Israel, including certain nonprofits, foreign educational institutions, and grants; the amendment was adopted, and the sponsor and a witness began answering questions when the transcript cuts off.

Transcript Highlights:

• I'm Jack Patrick Lewis, House Chair. I'll be presiding over today's hearing.
• Laura Sibble, Megan Trudell. On deck, Kathleen Ubertu.
• Laura Sibble? Good afternoon. Thank you. Laura Silber. Thank you.
• My name is Laura Silber.
• My name is Betty Lewis, and I live in Mattapan.

Keywords: 995, all

Summary: The Joint Committee on Municipalities and Regional Government held a long public hearing focused mainly on two sets of issues: proposals to amend or repeal the MBTA Communities Act, and bills to allow local rent stabilization. Committee chairs opened by explaining the hearing would be tightly managed because of the very large number of speakers, with testimony limited to two minutes per person and written testimony still accepted by email. Members and witnesses were called in a mix of in-person and virtual order throughout the hearing. On the MBTA Communities Act, several legislators and local officials argued the law is too rigid and should be revised to account for local conditions. Speakers from small, rural, or infrastructure-limited communities such as Hanson, Halifax, Marshfield, Winthrop, Dracut, Carver, Rehoboth, and others said the law’s one-size-fits-all approach does not fit towns with limited water, sewer, transit access, or buildable land. Some filed bills would repeal the law, exempt certain communities, or create appeals processes based on infrastructure, environmental, or historical constraints. Supporters of the law’s changes emphasized local control and the need to avoid forcing development where communities believe it is impractical or inconsistent with town character. A large portion of the hearing was devoted to rent stabilization legislation, especially S. 1447 and related House bills. Supporters included legislators, city councilors, tenant advocates, labor leaders, housing nonprofits, public health organizations, and residents who described sharp rent increases, displacement, homelessness risk, and the strain on working families, seniors, students, and people with disabilities. They argued local-option rent stabilization would let municipalities cap excessive increases and prevent no-fault evictions while preserving flexibility for local conditions. Opponents, including small landlords and property owners, said rent control would discourage investment, worsen housing quality, burden responsible owners, and drive small landlords out of the market. Some witnesses also supported a Cape Cod/Island transfer fee bill and a suburban infrastructure fund, arguing those would provide local revenue for housing or roads. No votes or formal committee actions were taken during the hearing.

Transcript Highlights:

• My name is Laura Goodhue.
• Andrew Brown, followed by Laura Chandler. Chandler?
• My name is Laura Chandler, and I come to you as someone at a very high...
• Brianna Lewis, followed by Nicole Sosa. Hi, I'm Brianna Lewis.
• Lewis. Nicole Sosa, followed by Robert Lee. Hi, my name is Nicole Sosa.

Summary: The committee on Pre-K through 12 Education took up SB 1288, a parental rights bill by Sen. Grall, which would expand the Parents Bill of Rights to require written parental consent for minors’ medical care and prescriptions, give parents access to medical records, require parental review/consent for surveys and questionnaires, and restrict use of biofeedback devices without parental permission. The sponsor said the bill is intended to restore parents’ role in major medical decisions and to address concerns about schools or providers collecting sensitive information from children without parents’ knowledge. She said she was open to clarifying language, especially around exceptions and definitions, but maintained that parents should generally be the decision-makers. Committee members pressed the sponsor on how the bill would affect minors who are abused, homeless, estranged from parents, or otherwise without a safe guardian, as well as access to STI treatment, mental health care, contraception, and care after sexual assault. The sponsor repeatedly said children in unsafe situations should come into the child welfare or law enforcement system and that she was open to changes for truly unsafe or unavailable parents, but she rejected the idea that the bill was merely about notification rather than consent. She also defended the survey provisions as a way to stop routine questioning of children about suicide and other sensitive topics without parental awareness, and said the biofeedback language was aimed at school settings where data about children’s anxiety or stress is allegedly being shared with classmates. Public testimony was heavily divided, with many speakers opposing the bill and describing personal experiences with abuse, rape, mental health crises, lack of supportive parents, and the need for confidential access to birth control, STI testing, and counseling. Opponents argued the bill would delay care, endanger vulnerable minors, and reduce access to medically necessary services and surveys that can identify risk. Supporters said the bill would restore parental authority, improve transparency, and protect children from inappropriate surveys and biometric monitoring. During debate, Sen. Berman and Sen. Davis opposed the bill, saying it conflicts with existing law and could harm vulnerable youth, while Sen. Yarborough supported it, arguing that not all parents are bad actors and that the state should not treat all families as if they were. The transcript ends with debate underway and no final vote or action recorded.

Transcript Highlights:

• Rose Yanos or Laura Fisher. Hello, Mr. Chairman. My name is Rose Yanos.
• My name is Laura Fisher. Okay. I'm sorry, what? My name is Laura Fisher.
• Bentley Stewart, Laura B., Lewis Salazar, and Autumn Franks.
• Laura B... Great. Sounds good. Laura B. You state your last name for the record, please.
• My name is Laura Barnaby. I'm a bit nervous. I appreciate your attention.

Summary: The committee first confirmed Heather L. Turnbull to the Florida Commission on Community Service without debate. It then took up SPB 7022, which sets Florida Retirement System employer contribution rates beginning July 1, 2025, updates rates to address unfunded liability, and preserves the 3% employee contribution rate. Senator Fine said the bill would increase FRS Trust Fund revenue by about $310 million annually and also gives certain elected officers an option related to DROP accumulations. An amendment was adopted, the bill was submitted as a committee bill, and it was reported favorably. The committee then heard SB 1710, a bill by Senator DeSantis/DeSigley to prohibit state agencies, vendors, and grant recipients from using state funds for DEI-related policies, trainings, and programs, and to impose related restrictions on medical institutions of higher education. Senator Polsky and others questioned the bill’s broad and vague language, its effect on health-related work, public-facing agency positions, private contractors, and medical school admissions. The sponsor said the bill was intended to stop DEI from influencing state agencies and that the medical-school portion would likely be amended out later. Public testimony was overwhelmingly opposed, with speakers arguing the bill would harm health care, education, access, and minority communities; a few supporters said DEI is ideological and should be removed from government and public institutions. After debate, the bill was reported favorably on a party-line style vote, with Senator Errington voting no. The committee then began SB 1678, relating to entities that boycott Israel, with a delete-all amendment. Senator Leak said the bill would expand Florida’s anti-BDS framework to cover nonprofits, foreign educational institutions, foreign government funds, academic boycotts, political subdivisions, and certain grants, while the amendment aligned the bill with existing law and clarified procurement and divestment provisions. Testimony included support from proponents who said Florida should not do business with entities engaged in boycotts of Israel, and opposition from speakers who argued the bill would restrict academic freedom and conscience. Debate continued as the transcript ended, with no final vote shown in the excerpt.

Transcript Highlights:

• I'm State Senator Jason Lewis.
• Thank you, Senator Lewis. Chair Gordon, my colleagues.
• Hi, Chair Lewis, Chair Gordon.
• So, Senators Lewis, Senator Lewis, Representative Gordon, and members of the committee, first of all,
• So, Senators Lewis, the... Can you hear me? Excellent. So Senator Lewis, Senator Lewis Rep.

Keywords: 995, all

Summary: The Joint Committee on Education held a public hearing on a large slate of bills, with the chairs emphasizing time limits, written testimony, and grouping similar measures together. Early testimony focused on opioid use disorder education in schools (S.382), with Senator Keenan arguing that students should be taught about the risks of substance use disorder and naloxone use as part of health curricula. Representative DeCost also briefly introduced H.551, a narrow bill concerning parent rights for children in third grade and younger. Several bills were then closed without testimony, including measures on type 1 diabetes informational materials and other diabetes-related proposals. A major portion of the hearing centered on school health and emergency response bills. Supporters of H.652/S.342 on diabetes management in schools described inconsistent district practices and urged clearer standards so students can receive care in classrooms rather than being sent out of instruction. Bills on epinephrine access and seizure disorders drew extensive testimony: advocates for stock epinephrine in schools argued that unassigned epinephrine can save lives and should be funded in a cost-neutral way, while a pediatrician opposed one version as an unfunded mandate. For seizure-safe schools (S.422/H.635), students, parents, educators, and advocates described missed or delayed responses to seizures, stigma, and the need for staff training, seizure action plans, and emergency medication protocols. A separate bill, H.645, allowing anti-seizure medication on school buses, was supported by a parent and student who said current law forces costly and restrictive transportation arrangements. The committee also heard testimony on youth skin health bills (S.334/H.600/H.619), which would let students carry and apply sunscreen at school and camp without a physician’s note. Supporters from melanoma prevention, dermatology, and industry groups said the bills would remove unnecessary barriers and promote sun-safe habits, while one witness cautioned about drafting details and unintended consequences. The hearing then moved to CPR/AED education for graduation (S.456), where Senator Tarr, a student advocate, and the Red Cross all supported requiring hands-on CPR certification for high school students. Finally, the committee took testimony on healthy school lunches (H.539/S.401): supporters from the Healthy School Lunch Coalition and school food directors backed stronger nutrition standards and a standing advisory council, while Consumer Brands Association witnesses opposed the bill as too vague and potentially disruptive. A nutrition scientist also warned about unintended restrictions on medically necessary or innovative foods. The chairs closed the hearing on the healthy lunch bills and then opened testimony on universal school meals for virtual schools (H.700), with Superintendent Patrick Latuka supporting access for students in Commonwealth virtual schools who currently receive no meal support.

Transcript Highlights:

• Laura Toiki of the Malama Ohana Working Group, in support. Okay, thank you, Laura.
• Laura Toiki of the Malama Ohana Working Group, in support. Okay, thank you, Laura.
• Clark are you present okay singan Laura Clark are you present okay singan Laura toiki<00:27:16.279>
• I see Laura Toiki here in support. Okay, thank you. EPIC Ohana Hopes Initiative, in support.
• I see Laura Toiki here in support. Okay, thank you. EPIC Ohana Hopes Initiative, in support.

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The committee heard testimony on a long calendar of health-related measures, beginning with SB 297, a proposed constitutional amendment to protect reproductive freedom. Supporters included medical, labor, and advocacy groups, while opponents, including Hawaii Family Forum and Hawaii Christian Coalition, argued the term “reproductive freedom” was too vague and could be misunderstood. Testimony on SB 350, a similar constitutional amendment protecting contraception, also drew strong support from medical and advocacy groups and opposition from religious organizations; one witness said the measure was especially important to protect reproductive care and contraception. Several bills focused on health system administration and public health. SB 1438 on home care agencies, SB 1439 on nuisances, SB 1441 on transferring the AAHU regional health care system to the Department of Health, SB 1442 on children’s mental health services, SB 1443 on the Department of Health, SB 1444 on general excise tax, and SB 1445 on youth mental health all received mostly supportive testimony from state agencies and community organizations. On SB 1445, the Hawaii State LGBTQ Commission asked that LGBTQI+ and Native Hawaiian youth be specifically considered in mental health services. SB 1450, creating an intensive mobile team pilot for houseless individuals with serious brain disorders, drew support from state agencies and providers; a street medicine advocate said the pilot could help address sustainability, insurance, and service delivery on the streets. The committee also heard testimony on access and workforce measures, including SB 1596 on nursing, SB 1565 on acupuncture, SB 1564 on Medicaid, SB 1418 for an emergency DHS appropriation, SB 1417 on crimes against protective services workers, SB 1411 on Medicaid third-party liability, SB 1399 on a family resilience pilot program, SB 1398 on trauma-informed care, SB 1281 on telehealth, and SB 1279 on telepharmacy. Most of these measures drew broad support from agencies, provider groups, and advocacy organizations. On SB 1281, HMSA opposed the bill as written, warning about audio-only telehealth and federal rule changes, while other health groups supported it as important for rural, kupuna, and disabled residents. On SB 1417, a Honolulu Police Department captain supported stronger protections for DHS workers but could not provide complaint data and said he would follow up later. The hearing ended with the chair noting quorum and asking whether the committee was ready for decision making; no votes or final actions were recorded in the transcript.

Transcript Highlights:

• . >> Laura Goodhue Anna Jones will follow so Graham Solution.
• Miss Price. >> Underground followed by Laura Chandler. >> Good afternoon to the committee and to Corey
• Sorry, Jenny Singalano followed by Brandon Lewis. >> Check to see was afternoon.
• Randy Lewis followed by Nicole Soza. >> I I'm Breanna Lewis, valid Masters degree in public Health.
• Thank you, Miss Lewis. >> Call Soza followed by Robert Lee. >> Hi, my name is Nicole.

Keywords: 999, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Jack Lewis for shipa in support. Jack Lewis for shipa in support.
• Lewis Urch, Hawaii Disability Rights Center, in support. >> Yes. Thank you.
• Lewis Urch, Hawaii Disability Rights Center, in support. >> Yes. Thank you.
• >> Good to see you, Lewis. >> Good to see you, Lewis.
• <01:29:58.800> Is Laura Safransky. All in support. Is Laura Safransky. All in support.

Bills: SB3263, SB3261

Keywords: student-athletes, name image likeness, NIL, compensation, transparency, University of Hawaii, Title IX, funding, protections, athlete agents, student athletes, endorsement contracts, professional representation, registration requirements, sports law, 912, senate, all

Summary: The joint Senate Committee on Education and Committee on Health and Human Services heard testimony on several bills related to student health and safety, University of Hawaii programs, and workforce development. For SB 2969, which would appropriate funds for the University of Hawaii to expand and sustain the Maui Wildfire Exposure Study and Maui Health Registry, testimony was overwhelmingly supportive. Witnesses described the ongoing physical and mental health impacts of the August 2023 Maui fires, said the study has identified serious untreated conditions and connected participants to care, and emphasized its role in serving survivors and training students. The committee also heard support from the Department of Health, the Alzheimer’s Association, the American Lung Association, Maui residents, and study staff. No vote was taken during the hearing. The committee then heard SB 2657, which would establish an Alzheimer disease and related dementia research center at the University of Hawaii John A. Burns School of Medicine. University of Hawaii and Alzheimer’s Association representatives supported the bill, saying a local center would improve coordination of existing research, build state capacity, and help Hawaii compete for future NIH designation and federal funding. A family member affected by Alzheimer’s also testified in support, citing the disease’s impact in Hawaii. In response to questions, the university said the proposal would follow a five-year phased plan, with the first year funding used to recruit a senior neuroscientist and staff person, at an estimated cost of about $375,000, and that the effort would still strengthen Hawaii’s research infrastructure even if federal funding is not secured. For SB 2612, which clarifies immunity for Department of Education employees and agents who assist students with medication administration under certain conditions, the Department of Education said the bill is intended to protect volunteers and help ensure students can participate in school activities even when staffing is limited. The committee discussed how volunteers would be selected and whether every school would have someone available, and DOE said schools currently rely on health attendants, nurses, and trained volunteers. The committee also briefly discussed liability language and gross negligence exceptions. The hearing then moved to SB 2412, which would fund a bachelor’s degree program in sign language and sign language interpretation at UH Mānoa with a future master’s pathway. Testimony from interpreters, educators, and university officials emphasized the shortage of interpreters, the need to retain local talent, and the program’s role in building a pipeline; university representatives said the initial request would fund a faculty/staff position as a first step, with additional funding needed later. No final committee action or votes were announced in the transcript.

Transcript Highlights:

• It would not be an ELO meeting without Representative Derrick Lewis here to present, so we're going to
• 01:47.360> so<00:01:47.479> we're<00:01:47.600> going<00:01:47.680> to Lewis
• here to present so we're going to Lewis here to present so we're going to go<00:01:47.880> a<
• 15.560> Derek well well thank you very much uh Derek well well thank you very much uh Derek Lewis
• of the 90th District proudly Lewis of the 90th District proudly representing<00:02:18.120> Leslie

Keywords: 00:00 Call to Order 01:55 Attendance Roll Call 02:10 HB 422 Discussion 03:35 HB 422 Vote 04:55 HB 6 Discussion 11:30 HB 6 Vote 16:45 HB 87 Discussion 20:22 HB 87 Vote 21:43 HB 255 Discussion 24:33 HB 255 Vote 26:19 HB 437 Discussion 29:09 HB 437 Vote 30:25 Adjournment, 958, all

Summary: The committee first took up House Bill 6, sponsored by Rep. Wade Williams, which would require administrative regulations with a major economic impact of $500,000 or more over two years to go through the legislature. Williams argued the bill would rein in regulatory overreach, improve transparency, and still allow emergency regulations. Several members raised concerns about executive-branch authority and the role of subject-matter experts, while others supported the bill as a way to improve communication and legislative oversight. The bill passed on a roll call vote and was sent to the House floor. The committee then considered House Bill 87, sponsored by Rep. Emily Callaway, with a committee substitute adopted first. The bill is aimed at reducing barriers for people with felony records who are seeking occupational licenses, while preserving existing public hiring practices for cities and counties. Callaway said the changes were mostly technical and intended to make the process more transparent, with no fiscal impact. The committee approved the bill, and it passed with the committee substitute. House Bill 255, sponsored by Rep. Amy Neighbors, also passed with a committee substitute. The measure updates and modernizes the Kentucky Board of Physical Therapy statutes, which sponsors said have not been substantially revised since 1958. Supporters said the bill clarifies outdated language, defines terms more clearly, and better reflects current practice, including physical therapist assistants. The chairman noted the long effort to update the practice act and praised the work of the stakeholders involved. Finally, House Bill 437, sponsored by Rep. Tony Hampton, was presented as a cleanup bill for alcohol beverage control law. It would limit state and local ABC administrators and investigators from making arrests unless they are POP certified, while leaving their other authority intact. Hampton and supporting witnesses said the change would align the statute with other law enforcement certification requirements and help keep civilian administrators from being put in harm’s way. The transcript ends during discussion of this bill, with no final vote shown.

Transcript Highlights:

• I want to thank you, Chair Lewis.
• Thank you, Chair Lewis, Senator Lewis, and Representative Heish, and to the Joint Committee on Education
• Thank you, Chair Lewis. And I'll offer my time.
• Thank you for having me, Chair Lewis and Chair Gordon.
• and Lewis committee members.

Keywords: 995, all

Summary: The committee opened a public hearing on 41 bills related to school climate and safety, with chairs Jason Lewis and Ken Gordon outlining procedures and noting more than 125 witnesses. The first major topic was the “Study Act” on cell phones in schools and related social media restrictions (House 666/Senate 335). Secretary of Education Pat Tutwiler and Attorney General Andrea Campbell testified in strong support, arguing that bell-to-bell phone-free policies would improve student focus, reduce anxiety and distraction, and support mental health. Several legislators also supported the approach, though Representative Jeff Turco and Senator John Keenan emphasized narrower bills focused only on school-day phone restrictions rather than broader social media regulation. Senator John Velis likewise backed a comprehensive school-hours restriction, citing student distraction and mental health concerns. Representative Tarsky described successful implementation of a Yondr pouch system in a school where he served as principal, saying it improved engagement and reduced bullying and discipline issues. The committee then heard testimony on a bill to prohibit Native American mascots in public schools (Senate 312/House 575). Senator Joe Comerford, Brittany Wally, and Rhonda Anderson all urged passage, saying Native mascots are dehumanizing, harmful to Native youth, and inconsistent with civil rights and educational values. They described support from tribal nations and noted that many Massachusetts schools have already changed mascots, but some still resist. The hearing also included testimony on school start times (House 647/Senate 360), where middle school students Caroline Duffy and Emery Jarvis described exhaustion and survey data showing widespread sleep deprivation. Former educator Telia Jacobs, former principal Rep. Tarsky, and others argued that later start times would improve health, learning, and student well-being, while acknowledging transportation and scheduling challenges. Zoriana Petrosian, who helped write one of the bills as a student, said the state already has enough research to act now. Additional bills drew testimony on related school issues. Dr. Raul Fernandez supported a bill promoting racially integrated schools (Senate 324), citing a recent advisory council report showing large disparities in segregated schools and urging DESE to develop a statewide integration strategy. On safe firearm storage education (House 548/Senate 397), multiple witnesses from Grassroots for Gun Violence Prevention and school communities supported annual school-based education about secure storage, saying it would help prevent child access to unsecured firearms and build on local resolutions already adopted in some districts. The committee also heard testimony on bills to expand career and academic plans (House 533/Senate 438), with speakers saying more structured planning would help students make informed college and career choices. Later, testimony on child sexual abuse prevention and survivor support bills described the prevalence of abuse, the need for training in schools and youth-serving organizations, and the importance of extending compensation and prevention measures. Throughout the hearing, chairs repeatedly closed bills with no witnesses and moved the agenda forward, but no votes were taken in the portion of the transcript provided.

Transcript Highlights:

• Member of the board of trustees for Fort Lewis College effective January 1st, 2026, for a term expiring
• Member of the board of trustees for Fort Lewis College effective January 1st, 2026, for a term expiring
• Lewis Martin of Colorado reappointed.
• Lewis Martin of Rush,<00:27:51.760> Colorado<00:27:52.080> reappointed.
• Laura Kinder of Boulder, Colorado, to serve as a representative of the Second Congressional District,

Keywords: 981, all

Summary: The Senate convened with a quorum, approved the January 22, 2026 journal, and then approved Senator Janice Marchman’s appointment to the Legislative Council Committee by a 29-0 vote. Several members made brief announcements, including a notice that Judiciary Committee would not meet that day after three days of SMART Act hearings, recognition of the Rocky Mountain Police and Fire Chaplains, and reminders about the National Western Stock Show Junior Livestock Sale and upcoming committee meetings. The chamber then received and read a lengthy message from the governor transmitting numerous appointments and reappointments to state boards and commissions, including the Front Range Passenger Rail District board, university governing boards, the Colorado Commission on Higher Education, the Great Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund board, the Commission on Aging, the Air Quality Control Commission, the Colorado Prescription Drug Affordability Review Board, the State Board of Health, and the Workers’ Compensation Cost Containment Board. No action was taken on these appointments during the reading. Before adjournment, the Majority Leader announced the Senate would reconvene Monday, January 26, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. A motion to adjourn was made and adopted, and the Senate stood in recess until that time.

Transcript Highlights:

• Whereas former Colorado Representative, Senator, veteran, and farmer Lewis H.
• And whereas Lewis Henry Ent was born on September 7, 1931, in Monte Vista, Colorado, to Peter and Isidora
• And whereas following the death of Laura Ent in 2014, Senator Ent married Katherine Kitty Mary Biggley
• And whereas following the death of Laura Ent in 2014, Senator Ent married Katherine Kitty Mary Biggley
• Ants and uh you know after we kind Lewis Ants and uh you know after we kind of<00:48:15.760> had<

Keywords: 981, all

Summary: The Senate convened with a quorum, approved the March 9, 2026 journal, and received committee reports on several appointments and bills. The education committee recommended confirmation of appointments to the Charter School Institute Board and the Colorado Mesa University Board of Trustees. The judiciary committee reported several measures, including Senate Bills 75, 132, 104, and 112 and House Bills 1017 and 1103, with recommendations ranging from amendment to favorable referral to the committee of the whole, and some placement on the consent calendar. The chamber also received multiple House messages transmitting House Joint Resolution 1020 and a number of House bills, many of which were passed on third reading and sent to the Revisor of Statutes. The Senate then moved out of order to consider Senate Joint Memorial 002 honoring former Senator Lewis H. Ent. The memorial recounted his service as a Marine in the Korean War, his work as a farmer and county commissioner, and his long legislative career in the House and Senate, with emphasis on agriculture, water policy, natural resources, veterans affairs, and local government. Several members and former members spoke in support, describing him as a mentor, a relentless advocate for the San Luis Valley and its water issues, and a respected colleague. Representative Martinez and Senators Hillman and Jones offered personal recollections of working with him and his influence on their service. The Senate suspended Rule 31A to allow remarks from House members and former senators, then adopted SJM 002 by a unanimous 35-0 vote. The memorial directs copies to members of Ent’s family, and Minority Leader Simpson requested that the current roll call be added as co-sponsors, with no objection noted.

Transcript Highlights:

• Laura Kissel. Okay. Carrie Stamos. Thank you. Carrie Stamos, Save Lincoln Wildlife.
• Francesca Palmachi, followed by Alexis Khalil, followed by Laura Kiesel, please make your way to the
• Hello, my name is Laura Kiesel. Thank you so much for taking my testimony today.
• We heard Laura Kiesel and saw Gary's demonstration on safe alternatives to rat control.
• We heard Laura Kiesel and saw Gary's demonstration on safe alternatives to rat control.

Keywords: 995, all

Summary: The Joint Committee on Environment and Natural Resources held a hybrid hearing on a large slate of bills focused on pesticides, pollinators, rodenticides, mosquito control, invasive species, and local authority over pesticide regulation. Chair Becca Rausch set strict two-minute testimony limits due to the very large number of speakers. Early testimony from Senator Moore and Representative Hawkins strongly supported a bill to restrict second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides, citing harms to wildlife, pets, and public health, and noting that California has already adopted a similar model. Testimony also supported a Lowell home rule petition to allow the city to prohibit or restrict these rodenticides, with local officials describing documented raptor poisonings and municipal efforts to phase out use on city property. A major portion of the hearing focused on pollinator protection and neonicotinoid-treated seeds. Witnesses from environmental groups, conservation organizations, academics, and beekeepers argued that neonics harm bees and other beneficial insects, contaminate soil and water, and provide little or no economic benefit in most corn and soybean fields. Several speakers pointed to New York, Vermont, and Quebec as models for restricting treated seeds, and one panel cited research showing only a small percentage of fields benefit economically from the treatments. Support was also voiced for a bill establishing an ecologically based mosquito management program, with advocates criticizing aerial and truck spraying and urging non-chemical, locally tailored approaches. Other testimony supported bills to reform the pesticide board and pesticide regulation process, to give vulnerable municipalities more local control over pesticide use, to protect schoolchildren from pesticides on school grounds, and to respond to invasive species through a centralized state office, coordinator, strategic plan, and trust fund. Many speakers, including representatives from Mass Audubon, MSPCA, the Xerces Society, the Sierra Club, watershed groups, and local wildlife rehabilitators, described impacts on hawks, owls, pets, fish, and broader ecosystems. No votes were taken during the hearing, and committee members generally asked few questions, with the hearing remaining in testimony mode throughout.