Transcript Highlights:

• Next, we'll take up tab number two, Senate Bill 1294 on biosolids management. Thank you.
• Senate Bill 1294 on biosolids management by Senator Bradley.
• And I know the Biosolids Grant Program has not been funded in several years.
• But we can't maintain that if we have a loophole in our biosolids bill, our biosolids regulation, that
• doesn't address... ...our biosolids bill, our biosolids regulation, that doesn't address really disposal-based

Bills: S0558, S1294, S1468, S1474, S1682, S1628

Keywords: stormwater systems, environmental standards, municipal infrastructure, engineering certifications, local compliance, Florida Department of Transportation, biosolids, agronomic rate, land application, environmental protection, Florida statutes, nutrient management, recordkeeping, farming, compost products, wastewater treatment, environment, sewage disposal, pollution control, reporting requirements

Summary: The committee took up several environmental bills, beginning with SB 1682 on local administration of vessel restrictions. Senator Trumbull said the bill would give cities and counties tools to address abandoned, derelict, and long-term anchored vessels while following state standards and FWC guidance. Members from affected areas spoke in support, citing recurring derelict vessel problems and the difficulty and cost of removal once vessels sink. The bill was reported favorably. The committee then heard SB 1468 on advanced wastewater treatment, which would require DEP to compile a detailed statewide report on wastewater treatment plants, including construction age, treatment levels, contaminant data, spill history, flood risk, and receiving waterbody impairment information. Florida Rural Water Association testified that any move to require advanced treatment for all plants over one MGD could create major financial burdens without dedicated funding. The bill was reported favorably. The committee also considered CS/SB 1294 on biosolids management, with a strike-all amendment adopted. Senator Bradley said the revised bill would require bulk Class AA biosolids fertilizer and compost products to be land applied only at agronomic rates and, absent a bona fide sale, only at permitted DEP-approved sites, with a transition date moved to July 1, 2028. Supporters said it would protect water quality and legitimate fertilizer and compost markets, while rural utilities asked for funding and flexibility. The committee reported the bill favorably. Next, the committee took up CS/SB 1628 on net zero policies by governmental entities. Senator Avila said the bill would prohibit local governments and other governmental entities from adopting or funding net zero policies, imposing related fees or taxes, or operating cap-and-trade or carbon trading programs. The committee adopted an amendment clarifying the definition of carbon dioxide. The bill drew extensive debate: supporters argued it would protect residents and businesses from higher costs and preserve predictability, while opponents said it would block local climate and clean-energy policies, including electric buses, energy-efficiency measures, and climate resilience planning. After public testimony on both sides, the bill was reported favorably. The committee also approved CS/SB 1474 on biosolids management, which Senator Gates said would require biosolids and septage to be treated at the highest practical level when wastewater treatment facilities are reasonably accessible and would bar Class B land application within 50 miles of a permitted wastewater facility. An amendment applying the statutory definition of septage was adopted, and the bill was reported favorably. Finally, the committee heard SB 558 on stormwater system standards. Senator Burgess said it would create statewide standards for municipal and county stormwater systems using FDOT guidelines and third-party inspections, with an amendment making technical changes and broadening who may perform inspections. Supporters said uniform standards could improve safety and reduce failures, while contractors, engineers, and industry groups warned it could raise costs, delay projects, and preempt stronger local standards. The bill remained under discussion as the transcript ended.

Transcript Highlights:

• But since there are separate bills at the moment, the purpose of this bill is to ensure that biosolids
• But since there are separate bills at the moment, the purpose of this bill is to ensure that biosolids
• land application. ...to no longer issue or reissue permits for Class B biosolids land application, in
• This amendment requires biosolids to be applied. As agriculture.
• Right now, the application of the Class AA biosolids, there really is not a lot of regulation at all.

Bills: S0204, S0540, S0772, S1294, S1474, S1504, S1708

Keywords: gaming, slot machines, veterans organizations, regulatory compliance, Florida Gaming Control Commission, declaratory statement, criminal penalties, financial regulation, vulnerable adults, information security, financial exploitation, licensing, biosolids, agronomic rate, land application, environmental protection, Florida statutes, nutrient management, recordkeeping, farming

Summary: The Appropriations Committee on Agriculture, Environment, and General Government met with a quorum present and first took up confirmation votes for appointees on tabs 2 through 6, which were recommended favorably without public testimony. The committee then heard CS/SB 1474, which would direct DEP to stop issuing or reissuing permits for Class B biosolids land application when a wastewater treatment facility is reasonably accessible within 50 miles, and it was reported favorably. The committee also heard SB 1708, which removes a timing requirement for veterinarians licensed in good standing elsewhere to qualify for Florida licensure; it received support from Americans for Prosperity and the ASPCA and was reported favorably. Members then considered CS/SB 204 on illegal slot machine operations. An amendment was adopted that set the baseline penalty at a second-degree misdemeanor, elevated violations involving six or more machines or repeat offenses to a third-degree felony, and made violations by a person of authority involving six or more machines or multiple prior convictions a second-degree felony. Testimony supported the bill’s effort to target larger illegal operations while protecting veterans’ organizations and other lawful users from felony exposure; the bill as amended was reported favorably. The committee also adopted a strike-all for CS/SB 1294 addressing Class AA biosolids, requiring agronomic-rate application, recordkeeping, IFAS guidance, and application of fertilizer-related requirements to bulk land application products, with an effective date of November 1, 2026; it was reported favorably after limited questions about oversight and IFAS’s role. Later, CS/SB 772 was heard to allow portable electronics limited licensees to sell “iware” insurance and define that term, and it was reported favorably. CS/SB 1504 updated pre-licensure education for the 440 customer service representative license so a high school student completing a half-credit insurance and personal finance elective can apply upon turning 18; it received supportive testimony from industry groups and was reported favorably. Finally, the committee adopted a strike-all amendment to CS/SB 540 creating cybersecurity program requirements for mortgage and money service businesses, extending oversight to certain investment advisers, clarifying emergency suspension authority for anti-money laundering violations, extending payment deadlines for examination costs, and adjusting director experience requirements for financial institutions; the bill as amended was reported favorably. Senators McClain and Truenow requested to be recorded as voting in the affirmative on tabs 11 and 13, and the committee adjourned at the end of the agenda.

Transcript Highlights:

• Is someone currently doing testing on biosolids?
• We got to find out what's in our own biosolids.
• What is the current statute surrounding The use of biosolids in Oklahoma, how may it be used currently
• Is there any study that looks at the impact of biosolid use on nearby water streams or runoff?
• I have nothing to do with biosolids, that will be duly noted.

Bills: HB3126, HB3177, HB3311, HB3465, HB3786, HB3915, HB4333, HB4476, HB3403

Keywords: education funding, concurrent enrollment, school aid, Oklahoma State Regents, permanent school funds, higher education, revolving fund, court reporters, salaries, legislation, employment compensation, state administration, Oklahoma, community development, infrastructure, economic development, local government, financing, pooled finance, Oklahoma Emission Reduction

Bills: S0698, S0958, S1066, S1230, S1288

Keywords: onsite sewage treatment, disposal systems, building permits, environmental regulation, local government authority, drinking straws, stirrers, local regulation, compostable, environmental impact, Ocklawaha River, St. Johns River, Silver Springs, river restoration, dam removal, Kirkpatrick Dam, Buckman Lock, Cross Florida Barge Canal, environmental restoration, springs protection

Summary: The Committee on Environment and Natural Resources heard and advanced several bills. SB 958, by Senator Bradley, would require local straw and stirrer ordinances to allow renewable, certified compostable, marine-biodegradable products; supporters said it would reduce reliance on paper straws that may contain PFAS and create more uniform standards. The bill was reported favorably after brief supportive testimony and no opposition. The committee also approved SB 1066, by Senator Broder, a major Ocklawaha/Rodman Dam restoration proposal. The bill would direct DEP to implement a phased restoration plan, create an advisory council with local and military representation, fund recreation and economic development projects, and address safety concerns tied to the dam’s age and high-hazard status. Supporters from conservation groups, river advocates, and some local residents praised the restoration and planning framework, while several Putnam County officials opposed the bill, arguing the reservoir supports recreation, water supply, and local interests. The committee adopted a late-filed amendment adding a Naval Air Station Jacksonville representative to the advisory council, then reported the committee substitute favorably. SB 698, by Senator Martin, was also reported favorably. It would let builders proceed with local building permits while septic permits are pending, rather than waiting for sequential approval, and includes a 120-day glide path related to new DEP rules; builders supported the bill as a way to reduce delays, while some senators questioned whether the transition period was too long. The committee then approved CS/SB 1230, by Senator Harrell, which phases out PFAS-containing firefighting foam, restricts non-emergency training use, requires inventory and disposal reporting, creates DEP rulemaking and a grant program, and exempts certain federal, military, and emergency uses. Finally, the committee favorably reported CS/SB 1288, also by Senator Harrell, to designate a water body in the Jupiter Narrows area in honor of Andrew Red Harris, with a technical amendment clarifying the shoal designation. Several members later asked to be recorded as voting in the affirmative on selected bills.

Bills: S0086, S0554, S0760, S0774, S0778, S0844, S1022, S1230, S1246, S1594, S1630

Keywords: unauthorized aliens, commercial motor vehicles, safety regulations, civil penalties, law enforcement, nonprofit, corporation, Florida Nonprofit Corporation Act, membership, articles of incorporation, governance, pretrial release, bond conditions, violations of release conditions, violent crimes, victim safety, public safety, warrantless arrest, probable cause, pretrial detention

Summary: The Fiscal Policy Committee met and first reported favorably SB 774, which extends enhanced workers’ compensation benefits to 9-1-1 public safety telecommunicators for mental or nervous injuries, after adopting a late-filed amendment declaring an important state interest. The committee also heard supportive testimony from a Palm Beach County dispatcher. SB 770, which updates the definition of forensic clients so certain individuals with intellectual disabilities or autism can be housed with other Chapter 916 residents in secure forensic settings, was reported favorably as well. Members then approved CS/SB 86, which declares unauthorized operation of a commercial vehicle by an unauthorized alien an imminent safety hazard and imposes driver, carrier, and enforcement consequences, despite questions about vehicle impoundment and cargo handling and one appearance in opposition. SB 1594, which protects veterans’ benefits received on behalf of foster youth from being used as reimbursement and instead sets them aside for education and transition services, was reported favorably after supportive testimony. The committee also approved CS/SB 760, creating a new offense for willful violations of no-contact pretrial release conditions in certain violent crime cases, though the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers raised concerns about expanded warrantless arrest authority in one section. The committee next reported favorably CS/SB 554, a complete rewrite of Chapter 617 governing nonprofit corporations, after a technical delete-all amendment. It also approved CS/SB 844, requiring continuing education on sickle cell disease care for certain health care professionals; the bill drew extensive supportive testimony from advocates and patients describing pain management gaps and health disparities. SB 1022, expanding Florida Children’s Initiatives by adding programs in Bay County and Broward County, and CS/SB 1246, broadening the Linking Industry to Nursing Education Fund to include health science workforce programs and related uses, were both reported favorably. Finally, the committee approved CS/CS/SB 1230, which restricts the use, sale, and distribution of aqueous film-forming foam containing intentionally added PFAS and requires inventory and disposal reporting, after adopting amendments that removed airports from one provision. It also approved CS/CS/SB 128, directing DEP to erect markers for the Andrew Red Harris Spoil Island water body designation. Several senators requested to be recorded as voting in the affirmative on specific bills, and the committee adjourned without objection.

Transcript Highlights:

• Unlike biosolids, as Senator Stewart indicated, there is a transition from the biosolid to The soil to
• Where does all that biosolids go?
• We process Biosolids at the North Canadian, which is near Jones.
• So they use biosolids because it is a lower cost for that farmer.
• biosolids are being applied.

Bills: HB3005, HB3007, HB3403, HB1907, HB3175, HB3986, HB3466, HB3411, HB4246

Keywords: climatology, emergency declaration, Oklahoma Climatological Survey, environment, weather data, public policy, state governance, natural resources, advisory councils, sunset law, water quality, hazardous waste, solid waste, radiation management, public health, biosolids, land application, environmental quality, agriculture, wastewater treatment

Transcript Highlights:

• So that, I think, moves us into the topic of biosolids, and the focus of biosolids and their application
• The biosolids, though, we got to pay a little bit more attention to those biosolids.
• Would you suggest, with the uncertainty of biosolids, that if somebody's going to spread biosolids on
• So, biosolids.
• So biosolids must undergo...

Summary: The meeting focused on the use of biosolids on farm and ranch land, with testimony from Oklahoma State University experts, a conservation official, and an engineering representative about the benefits, risks, and regulatory implications. Dr. Lusk described OSU’s long history of soil fertility research and said biosolids can provide nutrients and organic matter, but also may carry contaminants such as PFAS, heavy metals, pharmaceuticals, microplastics, and pathogens. He emphasized that many questions remain unanswered, especially about contaminant uptake into soil, crops, livestock, and humans, and said existing EPA and Oklahoma DEQ regulations address some treatment and application standards but may not fully cover PFAS. Dr. Arnell expanded on nutrient management, explaining that biosolids can function similarly to manure as a fertilizer source, especially for nitrogen and phosphorus, but should be tested, incorporated into soil, and applied under permit conditions to reduce runoff and other losses. He said PFAS testing methods are not yet standardized and that more research is needed to determine sampling protocols, movement in soil, and long-term effects. Committee members asked whether farmers and ranchers should be notified of risks, whether PFAS is currently tested, how many counties use biosolids, and what research would be needed for a dissertation-level study. The witnesses generally agreed that landowners should be informed of known risks and uncertainties, but said the science is still developing. Dr. Arnell said a unified testing method is needed before reliable PFAS monitoring can be done, and suggested that a multi-year study would be required to understand soil movement, crop uptake, and livestock impacts. Greg Scott of the Oklahoma Conservation Commission framed the issue as a waste-management problem, noting that human waste streams contain contaminants and that soil type affects how pollutants move; he said sandy soils pose greater movement risks than clay soils and that current best practice is incorporation, careful timing, and avoiding steep or sensitive sites. He also said PFAS are widespread and not naturally occurring in the way some other compounds are, and that liability and cleanup costs are major concerns. Mary Elizabeth Mock of Garver Engineering focused on the practical and financial consequences of a possible moratorium on land application, saying most of Oklahoma’s biosolids are currently land applied and would otherwise have to go to landfills. She warned that many landfills are nearing capacity, tipping fees could rise sharply, and cities such as Tulsa and Norman could face large increases in disposal costs, which would ultimately be borne by ratepayers and taxpayers. She also said septic system maintenance costs could rise if land application options shrink, potentially leading to deferred maintenance and system failures. Mock urged a tiered, data-driven approach to PFAS regulation and said advanced treatment technologies may help in the future, but they are still emerging and expensive. No votes were taken; the session consisted of presentations and member questions.

Transcript Highlights:

• Another farm was contaminated from biosolid runoff, and they never even applied biosolids to their property
• got to be an organic farmer and cattle rancher until it came to a standing halt, all because of biosolids—biosolids
• We know that all biosolids have PFAS in them.
• Do they have space to store the biosolids for the 14 to 21 day turnaround it takes to get PFAS biosolids
• And so that is the amount of solid content in the biosolids. Some of the biosolids are cake.

Bills: HB1341, HB1674, HB4028, SB2321

Keywords: hydrogen sulfide, public health, environmental regulation, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, ground level concentrations, emissions limit, emissions limits, ground-level concentrations, air quality, PFAS, agriculture, environmental protection, health risks, criminal offense, chemical regulation, preproduction plastic, water quality, pollution control, industrial waste, emissions

Transcript Highlights:

• Biosolids.
• They've banned biosolids.
• They've banned biosolids.
• Biosolids expert and lives near multiple biosolids land application sites. Sandra, sure, thank you.
• The black QC is biosolids. The company that applies Oklahoma City biosolids is CineGro.

Summary: The committee hearing focused on biosolids, sewage sludge, and PFAS contamination, with the opening remarks and first three presenters arguing that land application of municipal sludge poses serious risks to soil, water, livestock, and human health. Representative Shaw cited EPA and state data on detected pollutants and PFAS in biosolids, while Denise Travick Poyer described her background in chemical engineering and PFAS work and said the EPA’s draft sewage sludge risk assessment shows unacceptable risk at very low PFOS/PFOA levels. She urged source reduction, more testing, and consideration of total organic fluorine, and noted examples from Michigan where industrial pretreatment and source reduction reduced PFAS in biosolids. Johnson County, Texas Commissioner Larry Woolley and Investigator Dana Ames presented a case study of alleged runoff from land-applied biosolids affecting a ranch, with high PFAS readings in soil, water, fish, cattle tissue, and a stillborn calf, and said the county and state had pursued investigations, lawsuits, and legislative responses. Sandra Trawick of Save Oklahoma Farms and Ranches argued that Oklahoma’s biosolids program relies heavily on Class B sludge, that current rules are outdated, and that land application exposes farms and rural communities to pathogens, chemicals, odors, flies, and runoff; she cited examples from Maine, Texas, Georgia, Michigan, and Oklahoma to support calls for stronger regulation or a ban. After the testimony, members asked about sampling methods, lab testing, EPA limits, and whether the cited PFAS blood levels were comparable to the soil and sludge measurements. Witnesses said the Johnson County samples were collected by a Texas A&M PhD contractor and tested at a single lab, and they explained that the EPA’s 4 parts per trillion figure applied to municipal drinking water standards. Questions also addressed whether sludge is incorporated into soil; Trawick said it had often been left on the surface, though she had seen better disking after public scrutiny. Members asked how biosolids compare with manure and feedlot waste, and witnesses responded that municipal sludge is more contaminated because it includes industrial, hospital, and household waste streams, unlike animal manure. The committee then moved to alternative solutions, hearing from Doug McKinney of Advanced Microbial Solutions, who promoted biological sludge removal using bacteria to reduce sludge volumes and avoid land application, citing cost savings for wastewater plants and correctional facilities. Jason Jepsen of Eden Energy followed with a pitch for an eight-stage waste-to-energy system that converts mixed waste into clean energy, biochar, and reusable products, framing waste as an asset and presenting his company’s technology as a no-land-application alternative.

Transcript Highlights:

• Came up with the biosolids rule.
• So biosolids is those that come out of wastewater treatment plants.
• So do we look at all in biosolids as to the levels of PFAS in them when we look... ...biosolids as to
• And they were at the Treasure Coast Biosolids Symposium.
• This map is actually from DEP, one of their biosolids tools.

Summary: The Committee on Environment and Natural Resources heard a series of presentations focused on coral reef restoration, artificial reefs, biosolids management, and a proposed biosolids processing facility. Mote Marine Laboratory described the severe decline of Florida’s coral reefs, its restoration methods using microfragmentation, genetic banking, selective breeding, nurseries, and outplanting, and asked for a long-term state commitment to help restore reef areas. The Keys Marine Laboratory and Florida Institute of Oceanography highlighted their role as a hub for coral rescue, holding, propagation, and research, including emergency response during the 2023 bleaching event. The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission discussed the scale of reef loss, the state’s coral rescue and propagation efforts, and the economic and habitat value of artificial reefs, while noting permitting delays and material-selection concerns for reef projects. The committee then received a DEP update on the Osborne Reef tire cleanup. DEP explained that the original tire reef was a failure, that nearly 500,000 tires had been removed by 2024, and that the current effort is funded at $5 million for the fiscal year, with cleanup now shifting from large tire clusters to more difficult individual tires and coral relocation. Members asked about the future of the site after cleanup; DEP said that phase two decisions, such as whether to restore or monitor the area, have not yet been made. DEP also presented on biosolids rules, explaining that the 2021 rule tightened nutrient management, groundwater, and surface water protections, reduced the number of active land-application sites, and contributed to a shift away from Class B land application toward Class AA, landfill, or out-of-state disposal. Senators raised concerns about PFAS, nutrient loading, and the loss of disposal options, and a public speaker warned of a statewide septage disposal crisis. Finally, Sedron Technologies presented its VARCOR system and a planned Indiantown facility that would process dewatered biosolids into clean water, ammonia, and a dry Class AA product or fuel, with the company saying the process can destroy PFAS and help relieve regional disposal pressure. Senators expressed support for the technology as a potential solution to Florida’s biosolids challenges. No formal votes were taken on the presentations themselves, and the only action at the end of the meeting was adjournment after Senator Polsky moved to do so.

Transcript Highlights:

• It establishes biosolid testing requirements for wastewater facilities and public entities disposing
• of domestic wastewater biosolids, so both the facilities and the biosolids.

Bills: S0302, S0394, S0480, S0546, S0636, S0774, S0796, S1028, S1050, S1066, S1120, S1230, S1288, S1682

Keywords: cybersecurity, information technology, data management, local government compliance, cloud services, state agency oversight, integrated governance, conservation lands, land exchange, state-owned land, Acquisition and Restoration Council, Florida water management, environmental protection, beach management, beach erosion, beach nourishment, coastal resilience, shoreline protection, critical erosion, critically eroded beach

Summary: The committee heard and advanced several bills, beginning with CS/SB 796, which would create Veterinary Professional Associates as a new supervised veterinary role, expand telehealth prescription timeframes, and set training and scope limits. Supporters said it would improve access to care, lower costs, and create a career path, while opponents argued the proposal lacked a clear regulatory framework, could create liability and federal-law conflicts, and would not address the real shortage in rural large-animal practice. After debate, the committee reported the bill favorably. Members also heard and favorably reported SB 1682 on local authority over derelict and abandoned vessels, CS/SB 1028 on a commercial Citizens clearinghouse for property insurance, SB 394 on exempting certain reinsurance underwriting managers from licensing, SB 636 on beach management and erosion designations, CS/SB 546 on public notice for conservation land sales or exchanges, CS/SB 302 on Biscayne Bay nature-based solutions and related coastal resiliency provisions, SB 1050 on pharmacy choice for pet medications, and SB 774 extending workers’ compensation benefits to 911 public safety telecommunicators for mental and nervous injuries. Testimony on these bills generally focused on access, regulatory clarity, environmental protection, or workforce support, with some concerns raised on insurance consumer protections and beach-management language. Senator Harrell’s bills were also taken up and reported favorably: CS/SB 480, a major overhaul of state IT governance creating DIGIT and new procurement, reporting, and workforce structures; CS/SB 1230, restricting PFAS-containing firefighting foam and adding testing, inventory, and disposal requirements; and CS/SB 1288, a naming bill designating the Andrew Red Harris Shoal and requiring markers. Finally, the committee heard extensive testimony on SB 1066 regarding restoration of the Oklawaha/Rodman system, with supporters emphasizing ecological restoration, flood-risk reduction, and economic benefits, and opponents warning about local impacts, water quality, and the loss of a world-class fishery. The transcript ends during testimony on that bill, before final action is shown.

Transcript Highlights:

• But since there are separate bills at the moment, the purpose of this bill is to ensure that biosolids
• But since there are separate bills at the moment, the purpose of this bill is to ensure that biosolids
• To no longer issue or reissue permits for Class B biosolids land application, in other words, dumping
• This amendment requires biosolids to be applied. As agriculture.
• Right now, the application of the Class AA biosolids, there really is not a lot of regulation at all.

Summary: The Appropriations Committee on Agriculture, Environment, and General Government met with a quorum present and first took up confirmation votes for appointees on tabs 2 through 6, which were recommended favorably without public testimony. The committee then heard and approved CS/SB 1474, which would direct DEP to stop issuing or reissuing permits for Class B biosolids land application when a wastewater treatment facility is reasonably accessible within 50 miles, and CS/SB 1708, which removes a timing requirement for out-of-state veterinarians seeking Florida licensure while keeping other competency safeguards in place. Both bills were reported favorably after brief discussion and support from public witnesses on SB 1708. The committee also approved CS/SB 204, as amended, to increase penalties for illegal slot machine operations, with the amendment setting misdemeanor treatment for lower-level violations and felony penalties for larger-scale or repeat offenses; the bill also creates a process for veteran service organizations to seek binding declaratory statements from the Gaming Commission about machine legality. Public testimony on that bill was largely supportive, including from gaming and veterans-related stakeholders, though one witness urged clarity so smaller, lawful operators would not face felony exposure. CS/CS/SB 1294 was then amended and reported favorably; it addresses oversight of Class AA biosolids by requiring application at or below agronomic rates, recordkeeping, IFAS guidance, and application of existing fertilizer-related requirements, while preserving an exemption for certain compost products. Later, the committee favorably reported CS/SB 772, which allows portable electronics limited licensees to sell warranty insurance and defines that coverage, and CS/SB 1504, which lets a high school student who completes a half-credit insurance and personal finance elective qualify to apply for a 440 customer service representative license upon turning 18. Finally, the committee adopted a strike-all amendment to CS/SB 540, creating cybersecurity program requirements for licensed mortgage and money service businesses, expanding oversight of certain investment advisers, clarifying emergency suspension authority for anti-money laundering violations, extending payment deadlines for examination costs, and updating director experience requirements for chartered financial institutions; the bill was then reported favorably. Senators McLean and Trunow requested to be recorded as voting in the affirmative on tabs 11 and 13, and the committee adjourned without objection.

Transcript Highlights:

• Trumbull for moving the date to 2028 on biosolids management.
• One of the things I heard the senator say is this allows biosolids, Class AA biosolids, to be land applied
• So Class B biosolids shouldn’t be excluded.
• Johns County, and the biosolids, the Class B biosolids, we do it.
• And take the, take the biosolids, the land application out of CS for SB 290.

Bills: S0050, S0054, S0176, S0178, S0198, S0290, S0420, S0502, S0538, S0706, S0834, S0936, S0962, S1004, S1080, S7022

Keywords: veterans, treatment court, nonviolent felony, probation, mental health, cognitive function, psychotropic drugs, violent offenders, autopsy procedures, medical records, school safety, campus safety, higher education, university safety, college safety, student safety, threat assessment, violence prevention, credible threat, campus security

Summary: The committee heard and advanced several bills, beginning with CS for CS for SB 54, which requires district medical examiners to perform toxicology screenings for psychotropic drugs and intoxicating substances in autopsies of violent offenders and report findings to state agencies. It was reported favorably after brief discussion about how the data would be used. CS for SB 176 also passed, requiring public postsecondary institutions to make campus safety reporting and response procedures clearer and more accessible for students, faculty, and staff who receive threats. Both bills were approved without opposition in the meeting. The committee then took up the large Florida Farm Bill, CS for CS for CS for SB 290, which drew extensive testimony and multiple amendments. The bill includes changes to fair associations, a preemption on local restrictions affecting gas- and diesel-powered farm equipment, surplus of certain state-owned lands for agricultural use, a food animal veterinary loan repayment program, permanent authorization for Farmers Feeding Florida, expanded Florida Forest Service training, a ban on signal jamming devices, tougher CDL English-proficiency penalties, protections for food safety inspectors, biosolids provisions, and contractor payment enforcement. Amendments expanded veterinary loan eligibility to equine veterinarians, merged citrus research entities, made technical corrections, and revised contractor payment language; a late-filed amendment removed the bill’s disparagement clause after significant First Amendment concerns and public testimony. A separate amendment delayed biosolids compliance deadlines. The bill was reported favorably as amended. Also approved were CS for CS for SB 834, which repeals a restriction on health care sharing ministries partnering with licensed insurance agents, while adding a disclaimer requirement; SB 936, allowing temporary door locking devices at any height above the floor and directing the Building Commission to add standards to the code; and CS for SB 50, expanding veterans’ courts statewide. Later, CS for CS for SB 1004 advanced with a strike-all regulating dog and cat sales, requiring disclosure of medical records and financing terms, a three-day waiting period for financed purchases, and consumer protections against deceptive pet sales; an amendment removed an appropriation section. The committee also approved CS for CS for SB 178, which directs the FHSAA to adopt rules allowing coaches to provide limited good-faith support to student-athletes, and CS for CS for SB 198, regulating virtual currency kiosks with registration, warnings, transaction limits, receipts, and refund protections. Each of these bills was reported favorably by recorded vote.

Transcript Highlights:

• PFAS biosolids sampling study.
• in other states without industrially impacted biosolids.
• Biosolids sampled were analyzed using EPA measurements.
• Chapter 72.26 RCW related to biosolids was amended in 2025.
• Chapter 72.26 RCW related to biosolids was amended in 2025.

Summary: The committee held a work session covering PFAS regulation and impacts, no-cost allowance allocation for emissions-intensive trade-exposed industries (EITEs), and regional resource adequacy and data center load growth. Senator Victoria Hunt was welcomed as a new member. The Department of Ecology reviewed Washington’s Safer Products for Washington PFAS work, including completed restrictions on PFAS in outdoor furniture, carpets, rugs, stain/water-resistant treatments, and newer rules adopted in November restricting PFAS in most apparel, cleaning products, and automotive washes, with reporting requirements for some other products such as cookware and firefighting gear. Ecology also described Cycle 2 PFAS reviews now underway, including artificial turf and paints, and answered questions about compliance, online sales, sell-through periods, and how Washington’s approach differs from broader bans in states like Maine and Minnesota. The Department of Ecology also presented on PFAS in biosolids, describing a 2024 sampling study, limitations in testing methods, and a 2025 statutory amendment requiring additional sampling between 2027 and 2028 and a report to the legislature in 2029. The Department of Health then updated the committee on PFAS in drinking water, reporting that most Group A public water systems have completed sampling, that 317 sources and 188 systems are expected to exceed new contaminant levels, and that treatment costs for public systems are estimated at about $970 million, leaving a large funding gap; members also asked about private wells, health effects, bathing exposure, and home filters. The Board of Health’s new state action levels are being aligned with federal MCLs, and the department said it expects to continue monitoring and notification under state rules. Ecology also briefed the committee on no-cost allowance allocations to EITEs under the Climate Commitment Act, explaining the leakage-mitigation rationale, the current allocation schedule through 2034, and a forthcoming report on policy options for 2035-2050; members asked about industry barriers, competitiveness, and whether facilities might leave the state. Finally, E3 presented a regional resource adequacy study showing rising load, retirements outpacing additions, limited winter reliability value from wind, solar, and batteries, and a projected shortfall beginning in 2026 that could grow to about 9,000 MW by 2030 if planned projects are not built. The presentation emphasized winter cold-weather events, hydro variability, the importance of permitting and transmission, and longer-term options including nuclear, geothermal, hydrogen, carbon capture, and long-duration storage. EPRI then introduced its DC Flex initiative, which is studying how data centers can provide flexible load through workload shifting, cooling optimization, and on-site backup or bridging resources to reduce grid stress and protect ratepayers.

Transcript Highlights:

• What he failed to mention is it takes away the ability of those with Class B biosolids.
• So Class B biosolids shouldn't be excluded.
• Johns County and the biosolids, the Class B biosolids. We do it.
• So we would like for you to take the biosolids, the land application, out of the bill.
• In terms of biosolids, I'm a geologist with experience in water monitoring.

Summary: The committee heard several bills and took favorable action on a number of them. CS/CS/SB 54 by Senator Sharif would require district medical examiners to perform toxicology screening for psychotropic drugs and intoxicating substances in autopsies of identified violent offenders, consult treating providers when available, document findings, and report results to state agencies; it passed after brief questions and one opponent waived against. CS/SB 176 by Senator Polsky would require public colleges and universities to publish clearer campus safety reporting and response procedures for threats to students, faculty, or staff; it also passed favorably with no opposition. CS/CS/CS/SB 290, the Florida Farm Bill by Senator Trumbull, was the longest item and drew extensive testimony. The bill covers fair association rules, preemption of local limits on gas- and diesel-powered farm equipment, surplus of certain state-owned lands for agricultural use, a food animal veterinarian loan repayment program, permanent funding for Farmers Feeding Florida, forest service training, signal jammer penalties, CDL exam cheating penalties, no-solicitation protections, inspector protections, biosolids rules, and contractor payment enforcement. Members adopted multiple amendments, including changes to contractor payment language, expanding vet loan repayment to equine vets, merging citrus research entities, technical updates to fair statutes and nonprofit definitions, and a late amendment removing the bill’s disparagement/free-speech section after significant public testimony and debate. A separate late amendment on biosolids delayed compliance timelines for Broward County, and the bill then passed favorably as amended. The committee also approved CS/CS/SB 834 on nonprofit religious organizations, which repeals a restriction on health care sharing ministries partnering with licensed insurance agents, while adding a disclaimer requirement through amendment; the bill passed with support from some faith-based and consumer groups and one waiver against. SB 936 on temporary door locking devices passed without opposition. CS/SB 50 would expand veterans’ courts statewide as an option in all judicial circuits for service-related issues such as PTSD, traumatic brain injury, and substance abuse; it received broad support from veterans and advocacy groups and passed favorably. CS/SB 1004, in strike-all form, would regulate dog and cat sales by requiring disclosure of medical records and financing terms, adding a three-day waiting period for financed purchases, and treating violations as unfair trade practices; an amendment removed an appropriation section, and the bill passed after questions about financing and pet retention. The committee then approved CS/CS/SB 178, which directs the Florida High School Athletic Association to adopt rules allowing coaches to provide good-faith support to student-athletes for basic needs like food, transportation, and recovery services, while requiring reporting and preserving anti-recruiting enforcement; members discussed possible parental-consent language, and the bill passed favorably. Finally, the committee began hearing CS/SB 198 on virtual currency kiosks, with Senator Rouson explaining that it would regulate crypto kiosks to combat fraud, require operator registration, fraud warnings, blockchain analytics policies, and transaction limits, but the transcript cuts off before further action on that bill.

Transcript Highlights:

• It also delays the effective date of the changes of biosolids.
• It also delays the effective date of the changes of biosolids.
• So the bill raises serious concerns in two areas: state land governance and biosolids regulation.
• Class AA biosolids are not permitted by DEP for land application.
• Class AA biosolids are not permitted by DEP for land application.

Summary: The Committee on Fiscal Policy heard and approved two bills. First, it took up CS for SB 290, an agriculture and consumer services bill, and adopted a strike-all amendment that covered a wide range of issues: density limits for certain small municipalities, a delay in biosolids rule changes from July 1, 2026 to July 1, 2028, higher insurance and penalty requirements for fumigation businesses, longer payment timeframes for contractors to pay subcontractors and suppliers, restrictions on county agritourism permitting ordinances, and renaming the Bonifay Forestry Station. Senators raised concerns about the contractor penalty increase, local government preemption, and the biosolids provisions. Audubon Florida testified in opposition to the state lands and biosolids sections, while several industry and agriculture groups waved in support. The committee then voted the bill favorably, with Senator Bracey Davis voting no. The committee next heard SB 320 on administrative efficiency in public schools. The bill would reduce district-level requirements in areas such as assessments, personnel, facilities, and budgeting; expand teacher apprenticeship and multi-year contracts; streamline salary supplements and testing calendars; give districts more flexibility with Title I and capital funds; update facility planning rules; and shift oversight of district-run VPK programs. Supporters from several school districts and education groups waved in favor. Senators generally supported the goal of reducing administrative burdens, though one question was raised about remedies if charter schools fail to respond directly to Department of Education inquiries. The sponsor said the bill is intended to create a more direct reporting path and reduce unnecessary layers of regulation. SB 320 was reported favorably, and the committee then adjourned.

Transcript Highlights:

• So this is the biosolids, air, climate, energy, nutrient nexus, or BACEN.
• So the solids are generally treated in a digester where they become biosolids, and then the gas that
• is generated from those biosolids, methane, is a biofuel that can be used for transportation fuels or
• For us, finding partners for land application of biosolids can be a big challenge.
• any pathogens in the biosolid.

Summary: The Assembly Select Committee on Biotechnology and Medical Technology held an informational hearing on the role of biotechnology industries in wastewater treatment, hosted at Bakar Labs on the UC Berkeley campus. Opening remarks emphasized California’s water scarcity, the rising cost of wastewater infrastructure, and the need to reuse and clean contaminated water. Committee members framed the hearing as a look at both current treatment challenges and emerging technologies that could improve water quality, affordability, and resilience over time. The first panel focused on statewide wastewater challenges. BACWA Executive Director Laurie Fono described wastewater plants as part of a broader circular economy, noting their roles in recycled water, environmental enhancement, biosolids management, carbon sequestration, and renewable energy generation. She highlighted major challenges including aging 1970s-era infrastructure, nutrient reduction mandates, sea level rise, evolving regulations, and PFAS source control. She said Bay Area agencies face about $11 billion in nutrient reduction costs, with rate increases, state revolving funds, WIFIA loans, and bonds as the main financing tools. Members asked about regional differences, energy revenue opportunities, smaller decentralized plants, and agricultural collaboration. The second panel featured researchers and lab experts discussing biotechnology solutions. Lawrence Berkeley National Lab’s Dr. Romine Chakarvati described using microbial communities and machine learning to help break down PFAS and treat produced water. CEL Analytical’s Dr. Yigi Dearborn explained pathogen testing for direct potable reuse, wastewater monitoring, and the need for larger sample volumes and more funding to validate methods for viruses and protozoa. Stanford’s Dr. Chunhung-Shin presented an anaerobic membrane system that turns domestic wastewater into clean water and energy with less biosolids and lower operating costs. Committee members asked about AI, assay development, scaling technologies, and funding priorities. Public comment from the California Association of Sanitation Agencies stressed the need to balance scalability, reliability, and affordability, and the hearing adjourned without any formal vote or action.

Transcript Highlights:

• Adam Nordell owned Songbird Farm in Maine and never used biosolids, but four applications of biosolids
• ... ...and never used biosolids, but four applications of biosolids 30 years before he owned the farm
• It prohibits the land application of biosolids, requires fertilizer and soil amendments to be tested
• So just as a frame of reference, biosolids typically contain a thousand times more PFAS than drinking
• As you know, the commercial byproduct of toxic sludge is biosolid fertilizer.

Keywords: 995, all

Summary: The Joint Committee on Agriculture and Fisheries held a public hearing on 19 legislative proposals, with testimony limited to three minutes per speaker and seven minutes per panel. The hearing opened with testimony on bills promoting urban agriculture and vacant-lot conversion, including H.121/S.61, which Green Roots staff and community members supported as a way to turn vacant lots in environmental justice communities into urban farms and gardens that improve food access, health, community cohesion, and climate resilience. Rep. James Arena-DeRosa also spoke in support of H.109/S.56, the PFAS bill, describing it as a measure to protect soil and farms from contamination and to create relief for affected farmers. A major portion of the hearing focused on H.109/S.56, which would ban land application of sewage sludge/biosolids, provide liability protection and relief funds for farmers, and address PFAS contamination in soil, water, crops, and animals. Testimony came from environmental groups, farm organizations, and individual farmers, including the Mass Food System Collaborative, Conservation Law Foundation, Clean Water Action, CEMAP, NOFA, Sierra Club, and several farmers who described contamination in Maine and Massachusetts and urged the committee to act. Witnesses emphasized that PFAS poses serious health risks, that farmers should not bear responsibility for legacy contamination, and that the bill should be paired with funding for testing, remediation, and assistance. Committee members asked questions about farm liability, the scope of the bill, contamination in different ownership situations, and the costs and timelines of remediation, with Senator Comerford and others clarifying that the bill is intended to protect farms and farmers rather than non-agricultural landholders. The committee also heard strong support for H.416, a farm-to-institution pilot program, from Rep. Lee Davis, Berkshire Agricultural Ventures, and Berkshire Bounty. They said the pilot would connect Massachusetts farms to schools, hospitals, correctional facilities, and other institutions, creating new markets, strengthening local supply chains, and supporting food-is-medicine efforts. Members discussed whether the model could be statewide and referenced existing programs such as Island Grown Initiative and local hospital and insurance partnerships. Another agricultural bill, H.1058, was supported by Rep. Mark Sylvia and the Cape Cod Cranberry Growers’ Association as a way to allow unused cranberry water rights to be transferred within the same watershed for municipal mitigation while helping growers retire or consolidate bogs. The hearing also included testimony on the broader farm omnibus bill H.112/S.55 and related measures, with the Massachusetts Farm Bureau and others praising the committee’s work on agricultural resilience, food security, agritourism, workforce development, and farmland access, while suggesting additional transportation-related fixes for farmers. No votes were taken during the hearing.

Transcript Highlights:

• It also delays the effective date of the changes to biosolids regulatory provisions.
• It also delays the effective date of the changes to biosolids regulatory provisions.
• The effective date of the changes to biosolids regulatory provisions is delayed from July 1, 2026, to
• Class AA biosolids are not permitted by DEP for land application.
• Facility location, and governance structure for a new regional Class A biosolids facility.

Bills: S0290, S0320

Keywords: agriculture, landscape equipment, gasoline-powered, ecologically significant parcels, local government regulations, educational efficiency, public schools, district school boards, budget transparency, school accountability, instructional personnel

Summary: The Committee on Fiscal Policy met and first took up CS for SB 290, a broad Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services bill. The committee adopted a strike-all amendment that, among other things, set density requirements for certain small municipalities, delayed biosolids-related changes from July 1, 2026, to July 1, 2028, required higher insurance coverage for fumigation businesses, increased fines for fumigation violations, extended the time contractors have to pay subcontractors and suppliers from 15 to 30 business days, preempted certain county agritourism permitting ordinances, and renamed the Bonifay Forestry Station. Senators raised concerns about local government preemption, the biosolids timeline, and especially the new felony penalty for nonpayment of subcontractors and suppliers. Audubon Florida testified in opposition to the state lands and biosolids provisions, while several agricultural and industry groups waived in support. The bill was reported favorably after debate, with Senator Bracy Davis voting no and Senator Jones expressing concern about the contractor penalty. The committee then heard SB 320 on administrative efficiency in public schools. The bill would reduce district-level requirements across assessments, personnel, facilities, budgeting, and early learning administration; expand teacher apprenticeship pathways; create longer instructional contracts and renewable professional certificates; simplify testing and evaluation rules; increase flexibility for Title I and discretionary capital funding; and streamline facility planning and architectural requirements. School district and education association representatives waived in support. Senators Osgood and others praised the deregulation and flexibility, while Senator Bracy Davis asked about remedies if charter schools fail to respond directly to Department of Education expenditure questions. The sponsor said the bill is intended to reduce administrative burden while preserving accountability. SB 320 was reported favorably by roll call vote. The committee then adjourned.

Transcript Highlights:

• All for the biosolids issue, but I believe this is a good step in the right direction.
• It requires DEQ to purchase the necessary equipment to test for POs and biosolids.
• It requires biosolids to be tested for PFAS prior to land application.
• It also requires that all farmers and ranchers whose land... is being applied with biosolids, she'll
• Many more contaminants in biosolids beyond just phosphorus. I would agree with that.

Bills: HB4319, HB4317, HB1225, HB3076, HB3081, HB4226, SCR17, HB4432, HB3304, HB3411, HB3435, HB4339, HB4331, HB4341, HB4342, HB1770, HB1016, HB4113, HB2950, HB4141, HB3277, HB2988, HB3029, HB3338, HB1889, HB3834, HB3831, HB2939, HB3045, HB3657, HB1739, HB3759, HB3755, HB4484, HB4486, HB4108, HB1250, HB2961, HB1219, HB3025, HB1782, HB1907, HB3718, HB4459, HB2976, HB3548, HB3545, HB2952, HB2929, HB2956, HB2973, HB3055, HB3086, HB3040, HB3794, HB4336, HB3151, HB1590, HB3581, HB3313, HB3429, HB3448, HB1752, HB2650, HB3584, HB4202, HB3586, HB4321, HB4280, HB3650, HCR1020, HB2116, HB2206, HB4301, HB3625, HB3147, HB3403, HB3498, HB3970, HB3975, HB3976, HB3980, HB4265, HB4266, HB3638, HB3880, HB3930, HB3942, HB3944, HB4191, HB3242, HB3678

Keywords: administrative procedures, rulemaking authority, specific authority, legislative review, agency rules, accounting, CPA, licensure, educational requirements, reciprocity, professional conduct, vital records, birth certificate, birth registration, biological sex, sex designation, male, female, nonbinary, gender identity