Video & Transcript Research : 'caregiver substance use'
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WA
Washington 2025-2026 Regular Session
Senate Human Services Jan 28th, 2026 at 05:45 pm
Human Services
Transcript Highlights:
- If you want to come join us up at the desk, that would be awesome.
- It's the glue which holds us all together.
- And I had to use the restroom outside, and I dig my own hole.
- use disorder professional.
- Appreciate everyone who stuck with us at a 6 p.m. hearing.
Keywords:
opioids, substance abuse, dependent children, child welfare, caregiver substance use, court orders, shelter care, judicial discretion, family law, early childhood, family services, diversion programs, court-ordered assessments, 904, all
Summary:
The Senate Human Services Committee held an evening hearing on January 28th and took testimony on several bills. Senate Bill 6249 would require all people convicted of stalking to be supervised by the Department of Corrections after release. Staff explained current sentencing and community custody rules, and Senator Torres said the bill is intended to increase accountability and survivor safety. Victims and advocates testified in support, describing stalking as dangerous and arguing that mandatory supervision would help prevent reoffending; one sponsor noted possible amendment language had been emailed to the committee. No vote was taken.
The committee also heard Senate Bill 6255, which renames and expands the Legislative Executive Poverty Reduction Oversight Task Force into the Legislative Executive Economic Justice and Well-Being Task Force. Staff said the bill updates membership, duties, and reporting requirements tied to the 10-year plan to dismantle poverty, with a partial fiscal note showing a $4,000 OSPI cost. Senator Lovelett and agency and public witnesses supported the measure as a cleanup and coordination bill that strengthens poverty-reduction work and better incorporates lived experience and ethnic commissions. No vote was taken.
Senate Bill 6286 would authorize the Department of Health to fine private detention facilities that deny entry for inspections, with escalating daily penalties and a new account to fund assistance for wrongfully detained people and others harmed by ICE agents. Senator Orwall and Senator Trudeau framed the bill as a human-rights and accountability measure, and testimony from a Tacoma councilmember and others supported stronger enforcement. The committee then heard Senate Bill 6224, which creates a Children and Youth Behavioral Health Leadership Council and formalizes implementation of the Washington Thriving strategic plan. The bill drew broad support from parents, providers, advocates, and state officials who emphasized early intervention, coordination, and system accountability, though a few witnesses raised concerns about psychiatric framing and urged amendments. The chair adjourned the meeting after testimony concluded; no votes were recorded.
WA
Washington 2025-2026 Regular Session
Senate Human Services Jan 28th, 2026 at 08:00 am
Human Services
Transcript Highlights:
- And later, child fatality review in Snohomish County found caregiver substance use in 100% of infant
- better engage families with substance use disorder treatment and create home environments for young
- DCYF conducts safe child consults, including the caseworker, the supervisor, the substance use disorder
- The effectiveness of this approach depends on access to services, such as substance use treatment and
- use disorder treatment opportunities. services, including pregnant and parenting substance use disorder
Keywords:
opioids, substance abuse, dependent children, child welfare, caregiver substance use, court orders, shelter care, judicial discretion, family law, early childhood, family services, diversion programs, court-ordered assessments, 904, all
Summary:
The committee focused on child welfare, with three bills and a work session on national and state child safety trends. Senator Torres briefly introduced SB 5979 on in-home dependencies and dependency filing standards, and committee staff explained it would direct DCYF to develop guidelines and training with courts and child welfare stakeholders, give greater weight to high-potency synthetic opioids and prior referrals, and require clearer petitions when removal is not sought. Senator Torres and several supporters said the bill is intended to prevent avoidable harm and improve coordinated, earlier intervention; DCYF said it already has a case-by-case process and raised concerns about duplicative work. Public testimony on SB 5979 was generally supportive, though some witnesses asked for amendments to protect access to justice and clarify the bill’s scope.
The committee then heard a lengthy informational presentation from Casey Family Programs on Washington’s child welfare performance compared with national data. The presenters said Washington is doing as well as or better than the national average on several measures, including lower foster care entry rates, higher kinship care use, and lower re-entry rates, but noted continuing concerns about maltreatment recurrence, permanency timelines, and child fatalities, especially among infants. They emphasized the need for stronger safety planning, better data, more kinship and family-finding supports, and integrated services for substance use, behavioral health, and domestic violence. Senators raised concerns that fewer foster care entries may not be a success if child deaths are rising, and asked about housing and court decision-making.
DCYF then provided an update on child welfare operations and critical incidents, describing intake pathways, shelter care and dependency timelines, and recent data showing 2025 as a record year for fatalities and near-fatalities, many involving fentanyl and children ages birth to three. DCYF said it has made practice changes, safe child consults, hotspot mapping, and other responses, and pointed to budget proposals for additional prevention supports. The committee also heard from providers and parents about prevention and post-reunification services, including home visiting, infant mental health, family preservation, and substance-exposed infant care. Maddie’s Place described its non-pharmacological model for substance-exposed newborns and said it is not fully Medicaid reimbursed. The committee then took testimony on SB 6319, which would allow some high-risk CPS cases involving children under four and high-potency opioids to remain open longer; supporters said it could improve engagement and follow-through, while opponents warned about constitutionality, surveillance without counsel, and the risk of leaving older children unprotected. Finally, the committee heard SB 6308, which would let courts order certain safety-related conditions at shelter care hearings when a child is returned home; DCYF supported it, while public defense raised due process and constitutional concerns about moving dispositional requirements earlier in the case.
WA
Washington 2025-2026 Regular Session
House Early Learning & Human Services Jan 27th, 2026 at 01:30 pm
Early Learning & Human Services
Transcript Highlights:
- impairment due to substance abuse, the presence or use of illicit substances in the child’s environment
- use and DCYF involvement.
- dangerous circumstances without conflating poverty, mental health, or substance use with danger.
- dangerous circumstances without conflating poverty, mental health, or substance use with danger.
- The effectiveness of this approach depends on access to services, such as substance use treatment and
Keywords:
child welfare, dependency, imminent physical harm, child abuse, neglect, foster care, extended foster care, shelter care, out-of-home placement, Department of Children, Youth, and Families, DCYF, family law, juvenile court, child protection, unsafe home, substance use, caregiver impairment, relative placement, guardianship, adoption
Summary:
The Early Learning and Human Services Committee held a hearing on House Bill 2511, which would define “imminent physical harm” in the child welfare context as a substantial risk of serious harm arising from home conditions, caregiving conduct, neglect, unsafe environments, substance use, or other circumstances likely to cause significant injury. Representative Tom Dent, the sponsor, said the bill was intended to give caseworkers clearer tools to protect children while preserving family unity when possible. Supporters, including some foster parents, kinship caregivers, DCYF staff, and advocates, argued the current standard is too vague or inconsistently applied and has contributed to fatalities and near-fatalities. Opponents, including legal aid, public defense, and family-support advocates, said the bill is legally inconsistent, could increase removals, and should be paired with more services and training rather than a broader removal standard. DCYF testified “other,” saying clearer language could help but that the bill’s wording raised concerns; no vote was taken.
The committee also heard House Bill 2660, which would allow courts at shelter care hearings to order certain safety conditions and services for parents of children under five when a child is returned home, with referrals required within seven days and participation not treated as an admission of abuse or neglect. Representative Lisa Ortiz-Self said the bill is aimed at critical incidents, especially among very young children, and would let courts impose conditions when there is reasonable concern even if the child does not meet the removal threshold. DCYF and the Office of the Family and Children’s Ombuds supported the bill, saying it could help prevent future critical incidents and allow earlier intervention, though they emphasized the need for services. Some child welfare and legal organizations were neutral or opposed, raising constitutional and due process concerns and warning that services alone do not ensure safety. Several testifiers urged more community-based treatment and in-home supports; no vote was taken on either bill.
MN
Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session
House Human Services Finance and Policy Committee 3/12/26
Human Services Finance and Policy
Transcript Highlights:
- Louis County has the highest suicide rate in the state and one of the highest substance use rates.
- </c> one of the highest substance use rates. one of the highest substance use rates.
- </c> a much um lighter standard that's used. a much um lighter standard that's used.
- </c><00:39:08.160><c> So,</c> us to have a lot less freedom. So, us to have a lot less freedom.
- Help us. man. Help us.
Keywords:
background study, disqualification, set-aside, permanent disqualification, Office of Administrative Hearings, chief judge, human services licensing, substance use disorder treatment, SUD treatment, chemical dependency, recovery, rehabilitation, abstinence, foster care, child foster care, vulnerable adults, caregiver background check, license holder, direct contact, risk of harm
MN
Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session
House Human Services Finance and Policy Committee 3/26/2026
Human Services Finance and Policy
Transcript Highlights:
- So, it used to be weekly meetings.
- I have over 30 years' experience in substance use disorder providing treatment and training for staff
- I have over 30 years' experience in substance use disorder providing treatment and training for staff
- It also helps ensure the people facing mental health and substance use disorder challenges can get the
- </c><00:41:14.480><c> faced</c> substance use disorder who are faced substance use disorder who are faced
Bills:
HF729
MN
Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session
House Human Services Finance and Policy Committee 2/26/25
Human Services Finance and Policy
Transcript Highlights:
- So, members, we've got a work cut out for us.
- So, members, we've got a work cut out for us.
- So, members, we've got a work cut out for us.
- </c><00:25:58.039><c> to</c> guardian an example I often use to guardian an example I often use to describe
- Please state your name for the record and help us with Representative Noor’s question.
KY
Kentucky 2026 Regular Session
Interim Joint Committee on Health Services (6-18-24)
Keywords:
KY LRC YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bLtalKfzrDo, 2026-06-21T07:17:07+00:00, 2.2.24, Data collected via generic collector engine, Roll Call 00:00:29
Consideration of Referred Administrative Regulations 00:03:41
Update on the Landscape of Substance Use Disorders 00:04:19
Kentucky Office of Drug Control Policy Update 00:05:20
Substance Use Disorder Treatment Access 00:22:09
Mapping of Legislation, Policies, Coverage and Resources 00:58:45
Opioid Abatement: Current Programs and Initiatives 01:12:03
Comprehensive Supervised Substance Use Disorder Treatment 01:23:55
Update on the Health Care Workforce
Primary Care Psychiatry Fellowship 01:45:11
Healthcare Worker Loan Relief Program of the Commonwealth 02:00:08
Area Health Education Centers Residency Slots 02:06:10
Health Resources and Service Administration 02:23:14, 958, all, 2.2.42, 2.1.47
HI
Transcript Highlights:
- This repeals the law prohibiting drug paraphernalia under the Uniform Controlled Substances Act.
- So I'm suggesting no person shall knowingly use, possess with intent to use, deliver, or possess with
- So it'll be us.
- So uh<00:03:15.760><c> it'll</c><00:03:16.080><c> be</c><00:03:16.239><c> us.
- It'll be legislators and uh it'll be us.
Keywords:
drug paraphernalia, overdose prevention, public health, substance use, harm reduction, criminal justice reform, public servants, harassment, safety, government, criminal offense, nepotism, transparency, public officials, accountability, government ethics, 912, senate, all
Summary:
The Judiciary Committee first took up three previously heard measures in decision-making. SB 2418, which repeals the law prohibiting drug paraphernalia under the Uniform Controlled Substances Act, was amended to keep prohibitions on manufacturing-related paraphernalia and then passed. SB 2568, which elevates harassment against certain public officials to a misdemeanor, was amended to place it in the harassment statute, narrow the nexus language, and extend coverage to all public employees; it passed with amendments. SB 2661, dealing with nepotism rules in the code of ethics, was amended so the ethics restrictions would apply more broadly to legislators and judges as well, and it also passed with amendments. In each case, the committee reported no no-votes or reservations and adopted the measures.
The committee then heard Governor’s Message 684, the nomination of Judge Stephanie Char to the Fifth Circuit Court on Kauai. The governor’s office testified in strong support, and the Hawaii State Bar Association representative said the usual review process found her qualified. Judge Char described her Kauai roots, 17 years as a public defender, and service as a district family court judge since December 2020, saying she would bring hard work and continued commitment to access to justice.
Members questioned her about recusals on a small island, her experience handling criminal and civil matters, sentencing repeat offenders, administrative appeals, and how she would approach competency and fitness issues under HRS 704. Char said she had recused only a few times, emphasized case-by-case sentencing and probation conditions tailored to underlying problems, and said she would rely on preparation and education for unfamiliar administrative matters. On 704 cases, she said defendants awaiting evaluation should generally remain in custody, with possible diversion or strict release conditions in appropriate cases, and that those found unfit would need to be sent to Hawaii State Hospital. No vote was taken on the nomination; the committee announced it would decide on Monday, February 23, at 10:45 a.m. in Room 016.
WA
Transcript Highlights:
- We have Senate Bill 6244 before us.
- Next up, we have Senate Bill 6225 before us. Next up, we have Senate Bill 6225 before us.
- Next up, we have Senate Bill 5979 before us. Next up, we have Senate Bill 5979 before us.
- Bill 6249 before us.
- No, I don't know if I used my whole 90 seconds. You did use your whole 90 seconds.
Keywords:
alternative placements, individual ownership, restrictive policies, healthcare, operational control, homeless youth, youth services, mental health, support programs, state law, behavioral health, children, support services, poverty reduction, intergenerational poverty, WorkFirst, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, TANF, self-sufficiency, economic justice
Summary:
The Human Services Committee met on policy cutoff day to finish executive action on several bills and then hold a public hearing on Senate Bill 6339. In executive session, the committee advanced Senate Bill 6224, which creates a Children and Youth Behavioral Health Leadership Council and an executive coordination officer, sending it to Ways and Means. Senate Bill 6255, which updates the Lupro poverty-reduction task force and related council duties, was amended and passed to Rules. Senate Bills 5977 (near-fatality reports), 5979 (in-home dependencies), and 6249 (DOC supervision for stalking convictions) also passed, with 5977 and 6249 sent to Rules and 5979 sent to Rules as well. Senate Bill 6007, directing WSIPP to evaluate child welfare screening and risk assessment tools, was amended and sent to Ways and Means. The committee also confirmed gubernatorial appointee Angela Ramirez.
The committee then waived the five-day notice rule to hear Senate Bill 6339, which would require that a less restrictive alternative placement for a sexually violent predator be owned and operated by the same person or persons providing or monitoring treatment. Supporters, including the bill sponsor, the City of Kennewick, and several residents, argued the bill would improve accountability, transparency, and community safety, especially in response to a proposed placement in Kennewick near schools and homes. Opponents, including the Department of Social and Health Services, public defense attorneys, and Disability Rights Washington, said the bill would create conflicts of interest, be difficult or impossible to implement, and could undermine the constitutional LRA process by making release to the community unrealistic.
Committee members asked questions about liability, supervision, and how LRAs are currently reviewed and monitored. Agency witnesses explained that DOC investigates proposed LRA sites, that residents remain under conditions and monitoring, and that ownership and treatment are typically separate functions. The chair closed the hearing without taking action on Senate Bill 6339, saying more work and discussion were needed.
NV
Transcript Highlights:
- Coordinating statewide efforts related to substance abuse prevention.
- The amendment that was just given to us 10 minutes ago.
- The timeline was not up to any of us.
- Could we use a more generalized name, please? My apologies.
- This is a bill that is moving us back towards mass incarceration.
OK
Oklahoma 2026 Regular Session
Children, Youth and Family Services Apr 8th, 2026 at 03:00 pm
Children, Youth and Family Services
Transcript Highlights:
- It's helping our partners do their job for us. That's what we're trying to do.
- And I hope it moves us towards a solution. Follow up, Representative Hi. Well, I thank you, Mr.
- that's done for those caregivers or checking or anything like that?
- In this case, I'm going to use my stepson. He's recently turned 18.
- I will tell you that the chances of us seeing a line item are very high.
Keywords:
child care, licensing, definitions, foster care, child welfare, SB1983, resource family partner, resource family partners, Department of Human Services, DHS, foster homes, foster children, placement data, data sharing, de-identified data, aggregated data, sibling groups, placement disruptions, foster parent recruitment, foster parent retention
OK
Oklahoma 2026 Regular Session
Children, Youth and Family Services Apr 8th, 2026
Children, Youth and Family Services
Transcript Highlights:
- So it's helping our partners do their job for us. That's what we're trying to do.
- When it talks about these temporary caregivers, is there a type of training that's done for those caregivers
- In this case, I'm going to use my stepson. He's recently turned 18.
- In this case, I'm going to use my stepson. He's recently turned 18.
- I will tell you that the chances of us seeing a line item are very high.
Keywords:
child care, licensing, definitions, foster care, child welfare, SB1983, resource family partner, resource family partners, Department of Human Services, DHS, foster homes, foster children, placement data, data sharing, de-identified data, aggregated data, sibling groups, placement disruptions, foster parent recruitment, foster parent retention
Summary:
The committee first announced that Senate Bills 1426 and 633 would not be heard and then took up several foster-care-related measures. Senate Bill 1983, presented by Representative Kane, would require the Department of Human Services to provide aggregated foster care data to private child-placing agencies under contract with DHS so they can better identify shortages, placement needs, and sibling separation issues. Members discussed how the information would be used and emphasized that no private information would be shared. The bill passed 6-0 and was sent to oversight.
Majority Leader Lawson then presented Senate Bill 1796, which largely codifies existing foster care administrative rules and adds a 72-hour cap for informal care. Members asked about screening and background checks for temporary caregivers, and Lawson explained that caregivers must be screened and that DHS must verify placements are safe. The bill passed 6-0 and moved on. Lawson also presented Senate Bill 1806, extending foster care eligibility to age 21 for certain youth who are aging out or who achieved permanency after age 16, with education, training, or work requirements. Members discussed the need for post-21 services, possible future review of additional supports, and the bill’s potential to draw federal matching funds. It passed 6-0 and was reported out.
Representative Geis presented Senate Bill 1558, which clarifies the definition of a child for licensing level E group homes so a youth can remain in a judge-ordered placement until age 19 to receive rehabilitation services. The committee had no questions or debate, and the bill passed unanimously 6-0. In closing, the chair thanked members for their attendance and work on children and family issues, noted the committee’s accomplishments during the year, and adjourned the meeting.
TX
Texas 89th Regular
S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships Apr 14th, 2025
S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships
Transcript Highlights:
- I have used this not only personally, but I've used it also as a financial advisor in helping my clients
- We think they should have a substance abuse assessment.
- I can use any of this and any of that.
- Anything you say is going to be used against you.
- These kinship caregivers also.
WA
Transcript Highlights:
- From true blood to SNAP, from nothing about us without us, to the sacred government-to-government work
- DCYF is to make a substance use, or SUD, referral and initiate the community-based referral process within
- DCYF is to make a substance use, a sud, sorry, referral and initiate the community FYF is to make a substance
- It's setting us up for failure.
- Allison, I see you looking at us.
Bills:
SB6062, SB6080, SB6184, SB6224, SB6255, SB6286, SB6308, SB6319, SB5977, SB5979, SB6249, SGA9299
Keywords:
juvenile justice, criminal offense, minors, rehabilitation, legal provisions, contracts, jails, federal custody, municipal agreements, incarceration, law enforcement, homeless youth, youth services, mental health, support programs, state law, behavioral health, children, support services, poverty reduction
Summary:
The Senate Human Services Committee first held a confirmation hearing for Angela Ramirez, the governor’s appointee to lead the Department of Social and Health Services. Ramirez described her background in public service and said her priorities would include improving technology and electronic records, addressing workforce shortages, strengthening communication with the legislature, and protecting DSHS programs and services. The Lieutenant Governor also spoke in strong support of her confirmation. No vote was taken on the appointment during this meeting.
The committee then took executive action on several bills. Senate Bill 6062, concerning juvenile rehabilitation capacity, midpoint reviews, and transfer/release rules, was amended and advanced to Ways and Means after all six proposed amendments from Senator Christian failed. Senate Bill 6308, dealing with shelter care conditions for young children in dependency cases, was amended with a tribal-clarification amendment and passed to Ways and Means; several amendments to add staffing, removal, or safety requirements failed. Senate Bill 6319, creating a community referral pathway for high-risk families involving high-potency synthetic opioids, was amended to require referral within seven days and passed to Ways and Means after other proposed amendments failed.
The committee also advanced Senate Bill 6286, which authorizes Department of Health inspections of private detention facilities and creates an account for related community repair assistance, sending it to Ways and Means after rejecting amendments that would have limited inspections or fines. Senate Bill 6080, governing jails that hold people in federal custody and related contracts, was amended and sent to Rules after all proposed amendments failed. Finally, Senate Bill 6184, an agency-request bill making technical and programmatic updates, was held over for action the next day. Throughout the session, Senator Christian offered multiple amendments emphasizing victim notice, child safety, staffing, transparency, and limits on transfers or detention, but most were rejected by the committee majority.
MN
Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session
House Health Finance and Policy Committee 3/9/26
Health Finance and Policy
Transcript Highlights:
- use disorder.
- It will help Minnesotans who are struggling with a wide variety of mental illnesses, from substance use
- use disorder.
- It will help Minnesotans who are struggling with a wide variety of mental illnesses, from substance use
- I also want to name that substance use is a disorder.
Keywords:
social work, licensure, employment titles, health occupations, professional standards, medication repository, drug donation, healthcare, Minnesota Statutes, pharmacy, public health, controlled substances, psilocybin, psilocin, psychedelic, psychedelic medicine, hallucinogen, mushrooms, magic mushrooms, therapeutic use
MN
Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session
House Human Services Finance and Policy Committee 3/20/25
Human Services Finance and Policy
Transcript Highlights:
- use, and related residential, substance use, and related care.<01:15:36.400><c> Thank</c><01:15:36.760
- </c><01:17:10.800><c> use</c><01:17:11.040><c> disorder</c> providing quality substance use disorder
- </c><01:18:14.400><c> use</c> that are able to provide substance use that are able to provide substance
- They were enrolled in our program and substance use programs.
- </c><01:20:48.400><c> use</c> in our program and substance use in our program and substance use programs
MN
Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session
House Human Services Finance and Policy Committee 4/9/26
Human Services Finance and Policy
Transcript Highlights:
- And so from her substance use disorder.
- reduce the expenses that we would have in substance use in the future.
- reduce the expenses that we would have in substance use in the future.
- </c> creating a mental health and substance creating a mental health and substance use<01:06:08.840><
- </c> and substance use disorders. and substance use disorders.
Keywords:
human services, community support, integrated care, disability services, stakeholder consultation, homeless youth, grants, funding, Minnesota, mental health, substance use disorder, education, workforce development, licensure, direct care services, healthcare, long-term care, personal care assistants, employment support, medical assistance
WA
Washington 2025-2026 Regular Session
House Postsecondary Education & Workforce Jan 28th, 2026 at 01:30 pm
Postsecondary Education & Workforce
Transcript Highlights:
- We have five public hearings ahead of us, so we're going to get started.
- Participants in the Zoom must use their microphones.
- Chair Paul, thanks for giving us some time to talk about this bill.
- Seeing none, really appreciate you making the time for us.
- Rampant drug use, harassment. Thank you. Of course. Thank you.
Keywords:
ink of hope act, mental health, substance use, rehabilitation, community support, Washington college grant, postsecondary education, nondegree programs, student access, financial aid, consumer protections, school closures, educational programs, student rights, emergency medical services, EMT recertification, healthcare, first responders, public health, encampments
Summary:
The committee held public hearings on several post-secondary and workforce-related bills. House Bill 2427 would require tattoo artists to complete annual human trafficking awareness training through the Department of Licensing. The prime sponsor and a trafficking survivor testified that tattoo artists may be in a position to notice branding or other signs of trafficking and connect victims to help. One opponent argued the bill would impose compelled speech and burdensome annual training requirements. The hearing closed without a vote.
House Bill 2458 would expand Washington College Grant eligibility to approved non-degree credential programs. Supporters from community and technical colleges, workforce partners, and United Way said the bill would help students in short-term, job-aligned programs such as construction, CDL, IT, and other credentials that lead to family-wage jobs and better access to financial aid. House Bill 2474 would expand student consumer protections when a school or program closes, including required teach-outs or transfer options, refunds, and voiding certain student debt. The Student Achievement Council and student advocates supported the bill as a needed update, while independent private colleges raised concerns about financial penalties, program flexibility, and differences from existing accreditation standards.
House Bill 2589 would regulate encampments on public higher education campuses by limiting them to registered student organizations or recognized bargaining units, requiring notice and institutional approval, and allowing removal of unauthorized encampments. The sponsor said it was a content-neutral campus safety measure that would not ban protest, while supporters cited recent campus encampments and safety concerns; opponents argued it could burden speech and should not apply to private nonprofit colleges. House Bill 2540 would extend EMT recertification intervals from three to six years for EMTs certified in Washington for at least 10 years, while keeping ongoing training requirements unchanged. Firefighter and EMS supporters said it would reduce administrative burden and costs. No bills were voted on during the meeting, and the chair reminded members of amendment request deadlines for the following week.
MN
Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session
House State Government Finance and Policy Committee 3/20/25
State Government Finance and Policy
Transcript Highlights:
- DHS discovered that substance use providers had bad billing practices that resulted in some providers
- </c><00:15:21.839><c> billing</c> substance use providers had bid billing substance use providers had
- use and addiction was created substance use and addiction was created with<01:10:13.120><c> bipartisan
- </c> substance use disorder to improve substance use disorder to improve outcomes<01:10:24.840><c> from
- use parity and overseeing substance use parity and Behavioral<01:11:41.920><c> Health</c><01:11:42.639
Keywords:
opioids, substance use, addiction recovery, mental health, state cabinet, HF1310, Office of Cannabis Management, cannabis, marijuana, tribal consultation, government-to-government relationship, Minnesota tribes, Tribal governments, state government, consultation, rulemaking, Indian affairs, cannabis regulation, tribal sovereignty, state-tribal relations
OK
Oklahoma 2026 Regular Session
Business and Insurance 2ND REVISED Feb 26th, 2026
Business and Insurance
Transcript Highlights:
- I want to remind you, unless you're a credentialed media member, you are not allowed to use cameras in
- These real pharmacies provide a critical service to those of us in rural Oklahoma.
- The standards governing how insurers conduct utilization reviews for mental health and substance abuse
- the same methodology that is already used in the Oklahoma Medicaid program.
- We get calls continuously with us hoping we can assist in that, and this bill is going to bring that.
Keywords:
prosthetics, health insurance, medical necessity, patient rights, insurance liability, pharmacy benefits manager, healthcare providers, claims processing, reimbursement, insurance regulation, employees insurance, contract awarding, certifications, state procurement, insurance plan, mental health, substance use disorders, utilization review, benefit coverage, pharmacy
Summary:
The Senate Business and Insurance Committee met to consider several bills, with the chair emphasizing pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) and the impact on local and rural pharmacies. Before taking up the bills, the committee announced that Senate Bills 1620 and 1625 would be laid over. The committee also adopted an amendment to Senate Bill 1673 to exempt certain state-funded flexible benefit plans, and then passed the bill, which creates the Prosthetic Access and Accountability Act of 2026 and requires health plans that already cover prosthetic benefits to administer them without disability-based discrimination.
The committee then passed several PBM-related measures. Senate Bill 1500 requires PBMs to reimburse rural pharmacies within 30 calendar days. Senate Bill 1447 adds safeguards to the Oklahoma Employee Insurance Plan by restricting PBM contracts, including disfavoring PBMs involved in recent lawsuits or those affiliated with insurers, retail pharmacy chains, specialty pharmacies, mail-order pharmacies, or drug manufacturers. Senate Bill 1646 strengthens utilization review standards for mental health and substance use disorder treatment, and Senate Bill 2007 prohibits PBMs from reducing reimbursement after a successful appeal and adds administrative fees when they fail to make required adjustments.
The committee also passed Senate Bill 1275, which requires upfront disclosure of all fees for short-term rental bookings such as Airbnb and VRBO, with only tax added at checkout. Finally, the committee passed Senate Bill 2074 after extensive debate; it would require fairer and more transparent PBM reimbursement using a Medicaid-based methodology and a professional dispensing fee, with supporters arguing it would help independent and community pharmacies and opponents raising concerns about consumer costs and legal issues. All bills considered in the meeting were reported out with favorable votes, and the meeting adjourned after the chair noted one more meeting would be held the following week.