Transcript Highlights:

• You know, the human-animal bond and access to pet-friendly housing is not some sort of a niche issue.
• The Pet Inclusive Housing Initiative, which is a national group that has the best data on this issue,
• The Pet Inclusive Housing Initiative, which is a national group that has the best data on this issue,
• It's also the case that housing to pets.
• housing tends to fill much pet friendly housing tends to fill much faster<01:30:06.239><c> and</c><01

Bills: HB1604 , HB1713 , HB1722 , HB2270 , HB2401 , HB2515 , HB1979 , HB1593 , HB1743 , HB2122 , HB1756 , HB1837 , HB1729

Committee: House Housing

Keywords: agriculture, housing, workforce, land use, zoning, public-private partnerships, tax credit, school impact fees, impact fee exemption, school facilities authority, residential development, housing shortage, affordable housing, infill housing, land dedication, fee in lieu, school construction, developer exactions, fair share contributions, education contribution agreement

Summary: The committee heard testimony on HB 1604, which would create an agricultural workforce housing group within the Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity to address shortages of farmworker housing. The department said it supported the bill’s intent but emphasized that the group’s early work should focus on gathering data and surveying farm operators to assess actual demand, to avoid “mission creep.” Testimony from the City and County of Honolulu Office of Economic Revitalization, Hawaii Farmers Union, Hawaii Farm Bureau, Housing Hawaii’s Future, and the Maui Chamber of Commerce was in support, with one witness suggesting a housing advocacy nonprofit be added to the working group for balance. The committee then discussed HB 1713 on school impact fees, which would clarify exemptions for certain affordable housing projects and exempt new residential developments of fewer than 100 units. The Attorney General’s office said the bill should define “low to moderate income households” because that term is not defined in chapter 302A. HHFDC, the School Facilities Authority, Grassroot Institute of Hawaii, and others supported the measure, arguing it would reduce administrative burden and remove barriers to housing. Members questioned whether the bill should instead repeal the school impact fee entirely; supporters said they also favored full repeal but viewed this bill as a more feasible step. The School Facilities Authority also explained that about $28 million in school impact fees had been collected across four districts and none had yet been spent, and discussed how recent nexus requirements limit how the funds can be used. HB 1722, relating to residential condominiums, drew extensive testimony and questioning. HCDA supported the bill and explained that it amends the 99-year leasehold pilot program created by Act 97 of 2023 by reducing owner-occupancy restrictions from 100% of units to 60%, allowing some rental or subleasing flexibility for the owner-occupied units, and permitting up to 40% of units to be sold to qualified residents after being on the market for more than 60 days. HCDA said the original restrictions, combined with rising construction costs, higher interest rates, and competition from nearby projects, made the pilot project difficult to market and finance; it said the changes are needed to make the project feasible and competitive. Supporters including AP Hawaii, Kila LLC, and project representatives said the amendments would help make the demonstration project in Kakaʻako viable. Some members raised concerns that the changes could weaken long-term affordability and questioned why certain ownership language was being deleted if rentals would still be restricted. No votes or final committee actions were taken in the portion of the hearing provided.

Transcript Highlights:

• housing market with pets?
• And I think having your pet in housing if you've had your pet before you moved into housing, I'm not
• </c> pets before moving into public housing. pets before moving into public housing.
• </c> overpopulating housing market with pets? overpopulating housing market with pets?
• </c> private housing to pet owners as well. private housing to pet owners as well.

Bills: HB1984 , HB1593 , HB2423 , HB1691 , HB2283 , HB2386 , HB1824 , HB1697 , HB2164 , HB2165

Committee: House Consumer Protection & Commerce

Keywords: renewable energy, solar energy, self-certification, building permits, environmental regulations, HB1593, affordable housing, pet-inclusive housing, pet friendly housing, rental housing, affordable rental housing, HHFDC, Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation, tenant pets, companion animals, dogs, cats, landlord-tenant law, security deposit, pet deposit

Summary: The committee heard testimony on HB 1984 HD2, which would require government entities issuing building permits to create a self-certification process for certain behind-the-meter rooftop solar and energy storage systems, allowing approved applicants to proceed without waiting for standard permit review. The Public Utilities Commission and DLNR offered comments, and the Hawaii Solar Energy Association, Holoholo Energy, Photon Works Engineering, Malama Solar, RevoluSun, and others testified in strong support. Supporters said the bill would reduce permitting delays, lower costs, and help meet Hawaii’s renewable energy goals while still relying on licensed engineers, electricians, and county inspections for safety. Committee members asked about risk, existing county pilot programs, and whether self-certification had been used before; witnesses said the professional liability remains with licensed signers and that current automated review systems often flag minor issues that slow projects. The committee also noted 16 additional written testimonies in support. The committee then took up HB 1593 HD1, which would require HHFDC-financed affordable rental housing projects to allow residents to own or keep common household pets. The Hawaiian Humane Society testified that the bill is a top priority because housing restrictions are a major reason pets are surrendered and because many unhoused residents with pets avoid housing that does not allow animals. In response to questions, the Humane Society said concerns about pet-related damage are overstated, suggested pet behavior screening as a safeguard, and said it would be willing to work on broader private-market pet-friendly housing policies. Members raised concerns about whether allowing pets in public housing could create problems for residents who later transition to the private market, and the witness said California has a similar law and no major negative effects had been identified. Finally, the committee heard HB 2423 HD2, which would require that by January 1, 2028, diesel fuel sold in Hawaii for on-highway vehicles contain at least 5% biodiesel by volume. The Hawaii State Energy Office offered comments, and Hawaii Transportation Association and Pacific Biodiesel Technologies testified in support. Pacific Biodiesel argued the mandate would improve energy security, stabilize fuel prices amid global supply disruptions, and support local clean-fuel production. In response to questions, the company said its nameplate capacity is 5.5 million gallons per year and it has produced over 6 million gallons annually, but much of its output is tied up in standby generator contracts that can fluctuate. Witnesses said the mandate would provide a stable market signal and could support future investment in expanded local biodiesel production, including agricultural feedstock development and a possible second refinery. No votes or final actions were taken during the portion of the meeting provided.

Transcript Highlights:

• I love animals and I have a pet.
• I feel strongly that a person who owns a pet should provide proper care and shelter. ...a pet.

Bills: HB149

Committee: House Agriculture and Forestry

Keywords: dog tethering, animal welfare, animal cruelty, outdoor shelter, dog confinement, leash laws, chaining dogs, trolley system, kennel standards, dog shelter requirements, Class B misdemeanor, veterinary practice, boarding kennel, animal shelter, hunting dogs, livestock herding, farm dogs, agricultural exemption, pet care, canine protection

Transcript Highlights:

• I’ll call this meeting of the House Housing Finance and Policy Committee to order and note that we have
• </c> today to testify on House File 3403. today to testify on House File 3403.
• </c> Our third bill, House File 2381. Our third bill, House File 2381.
• house on that so we have a house and availability for consumer.
• house on that so we have a house and availability for consumer.

Bills: HF3403 , HF2687 , HF2381

Committee: House Housing Finance and Policy

Keywords: HF3403, emergency rental assistance, rental aid, homelessness prevention, housing crisis, imminent risk of homelessness, eviction prevention, county aid, Tribal governments, local government aids, general fund appropriation, Minnesota revenue commissioner, poverty level, low-income housing, housing stability, family homeless prevention and assistance, emergency housing assistance, HF2687, single-family homes, corporate landlords

Transcript Highlights:

• And with that, I lay over House File 2740 as amended for possible inclusion.
• I lay House File 2507 over for possible inclusion. Next, we have House File 2461.
• I move House File 2461 for possible inclusion in the omnibus housing budget bill. So moved.
• Chair Howard, I move that **House File 2381** be laid over for possible inclusion in and the housing
• And with that, I lay over House Bill 2381 as amended for possible inclusion.

Bills: HF1143 , HF1548 , HF1340 , HF2549 , HF2559 , HF1673 , HF2740 , HF2507 , HF2461 , HF2381 , HF2695

Committee: House Housing Finance and Policy

Keywords: education funding, unemployment aid, special education, Minnesota statutes, appropriations, housing, redevelopment, local government, trust funds, community development, HF1340, housing infrastructure bonds, Minnesota Housing Finance Agency, MHFA, affordable housing, supportive housing, permanent housing, adaptive reuse, area median income, AMI

Transcript Highlights:

• </c><00:10:44.200><c> aid</c><00:10:44.440><c> and</c> inclusion of State local housing aid and inclusion
• With that, I will lay House File 2549 over for possible inclusion.
• All right, and with that, I lay over House File 1673 as amended for possible inclusion.
• I lay House File 2507 over for possible inclusion. Next we have House File 2461. House File 2461.
• And with that, I lay over House File 2381 as amended for possible inclusion.

Bills: HF1143 , HF1548 , HF1340 , HF2549 , HF2559 , HF1673 , HF2740 , HF2507 , HF2461 , HF2381 , HF2695

Committee: House Housing Finance and Policy

Keywords: education funding, unemployment aid, special education, Minnesota statutes, appropriations, housing, redevelopment, local government, trust funds, community development, HF1340, housing infrastructure bonds, Minnesota Housing Finance Agency, MHFA, affordable housing, supportive housing, permanent housing, adaptive reuse, area median income, AMI

Transcript Highlights:

• I think we’re just trying to make sure that if we do have pets in public housing that we try to accommodate
• I think we’re just trying to make sure that if we do have pets in public housing that we try to accommodate
• </c><00:34:19.240><c> that</c> have uh pets uh in public housing that have uh pets uh in public housing
• </c> relating to housing. relating to housing.
• I will say I appreciate the intention to give better flexibility to have pets in all forms of housing

Bills: SB2069 , SB2177 , SB2342 , SB2060 , SB2544 , SB3011 , SB2061 , SB2552

Committee: House Housing

Keywords: SB2069, Hawaii housing, HHFDC, Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation, Dwelling Unit Revolving Fund, equity pilot program, housing affordability, homeownership, first-time homebuyer, for-sale housing, transit-oriented development, TOD, transit-oriented development zone, bus route, bus stop, critical workforce housing, health care workers, educators, law enforcement, correctional officers

Summary: The House Housing Committee opened its Friday morning hearing by noting potentially catastrophic flooding on the island and acknowledging that some members were absent helping their communities, so quorum for voting was uncertain. The committee then heard testimony on several housing-related measures, with most bills drawing support from housing agencies and community organizations and little or no opposition in the room. On SB 2069 SD2, SB 2177 SD2, and SB 2342 SD2, witnesses largely supported the measures. HHFDC supported SB 2069 and SB 2177, and HPHA supported SB 2342. For SB 2342, HHFDC raised concerns that the bill would alter the Qualified Allocation Plan outside the normal open, public process required by federal law and could exclude stakeholders; Kathy Charities echoed those concerns and also objected to changing point allocations in ways that could raise rents and weaken long-term affordability. Members questioned HHFDC about how the QAP is normally updated, the meaning of the point system, and whether a legislative working group could mandate changes; HHFDC said recommendations would still need public hearing and board approval. The committee also heard SB 2060 SD2, which would create a mixed-income subaccount in the rental housing revolving fund. HHFDC said the subaccount would likely use tier-two funds, estimated at about $100 million total, to support mixed-income projects above 60% AMI, citing Front Street Apartments as a possible example. Members asked about project selection and funding needs. On SB 2544 SD2, OHA opposed the bill’s Chapter 6E-related exemptions and mandatory review timelines, arguing that burial review protections should not be weakened and that the SPEED Task Force process was a better venue for streamlining. The sponsor later clarified that the bill was not meant to eliminate the 60-day review process but to make the deadline clearer. For SB 3011 SD1, which concerns public housing and pet ownership, HPHA and several humane organizations supported the measure, saying it would help low-income residents and seniors keep pets and benefit from animal companionship. HPHA explained its existing pet policy, including deposits, monthly fees, and restrictions, and said the requested funding would support ADA-accessible pet areas and related administration. Finally, on SB 2061 SD2, HCDA supported the bill while OHA opposed it unless protections for Hawaiian Crown and Government lands were strengthened. Committee members questioned the project’s 60/40 split between income-restricted and market-rate units, the 10-year owner-occupancy restriction, and the procurement exemption; the sponsor said the exemption was tied to a real estate transaction and that the project would still use 103D-like solicitation procedures. No votes were taken during the hearing, and several items were left for later action because quorum was uncertain.

Transcript Highlights:

• The House Judiciary Committee is called to order.
• I'm a registered lobbyist for the Pet Food Institute.
• There's a fee on registering the pet food.
• , and in others it might be under-inclusive.
• Madam Chair, Senator, we are the House.

Bills: SB38 , SB17 , SB41 , SB264

Committee: House House Judiciary

Keywords: SB38, pet food, registered pet food, registration fee, fees, sunset repeal, repeal of repeal, revenue, state fee, business regulation, animal feed, pet food registration, New Mexico, gun control, firearm safety, dealer regulation, illegal trade, background checks, sexual crimes, statute of limitations

Summary: The committee first heard Senate Bill 38, which would make permanent the New Mexico affordable spay-neuter program funded by fees on registered pet food. The sponsor and supporters said the program helps reduce companion animal overpopulation, shelter intake, and euthanasia, while opponents argued the charge is an unlawful tax, is tied to ongoing litigation, and that required annual reporting has not been done. After public testimony, the committee adopted a due pass motion on SB 38 by a 10-1 vote. The committee then took up Senate Bill 17, a gun-safety measure that would impose new requirements on firearms dealers and prohibit future sale of certain assault-style and high-capacity weapons. Supporters, including sponsors, gun-violence survivors, public safety advocates, and some local officials, argued the bill would address straw purchasing, trafficking, dealer accountability, and mass-casualty weapons. Opponents, including firearms retailers, ranchers, law enforcement, and gun owners, said the bill would burden lawful businesses, raise constitutional concerns, and do little to stop crime. After extensive testimony and questions about the bill’s legal basis, definitions, and dealer regulations, the committee did not vote and instead rolled the bill for further work on amendments. Later, the committee heard Senate Bill 41, as amended, which would eliminate the statute of limitations for second-degree criminal sexual contact of a minor. Support came from the Chamber of Commerce and sexual assault advocacy groups, who said delayed disclosure is common and justice should not expire before survivors are ready to come forward. Committee members asked detailed questions about the bill’s scope, including why certain offenses remained covered and how the criminal statutes are categorized. The committee adopted an amendment to correct drafting issues and then passed SB 41 as amended on a 10-0 vote. Finally, the committee began hearing Senate Bill 264, an elections safety bill that would strengthen penalties for election interference, create emergency polling-place protocols, and clarify when law enforcement may be present at polling places at the request of election officials. Supporters said it was needed to protect voters from intimidation, while an opponent argued it could put law enforcement at risk and restrict their ability to vote. The sponsor and Secretary of State explained that the bill was aimed at preventing ordered deployment of armed personnel to polling places, not barring officers or service members from voting. The discussion was still underway when the transcript ended.

Transcript Highlights:

• I know there are a number of you that are probably here on House Bill 61 and House Bill 120.
• So House Bill 99, I appreciate the sponsors being here.
• House Judiciary Substitute for House Bill 99 outlines a foundation of meaningful medical malpractice
• Please support House Judiciary Committee substitute for House Bill 99 and vote yes for the patients of
• So I urge you to not adopt House Bill 99 in its current form. Thank you. Mr.

Bills: SB38 , SB17 , SB41 , SB264

Committee: Senate House Judiciary

Keywords: SB38, pet food, registered pet food, registration fee, fees, sunset repeal, repeal of repeal, revenue, state fee, business regulation, animal feed, pet food registration, New Mexico, gun control, firearm safety, dealer regulation, illegal trade, background checks, sexual crimes, statute of limitations

Summary: The Senate Judiciary Committee heard extensive testimony on House Bill 99, a proposed reform of the Medical Malpractice Act. Representative Chandler said the bill is intended to address physician shortages, rising malpractice premiums, and litigation pressures by changing punitive damages rules, including a higher standard of proof, a requirement that punitive damages not be pleaded in the initial complaint, and limits tied to the type of provider. Supporters, including physicians, business leaders, and some patients, said the bill would help retain doctors, improve access to care, and create more predictable liability exposure. Several supporters also said current malpractice conditions are driving doctors out of the state and harming rural access to services. Opponents argued the bill would reduce patient recovery, create unequal treatment based on insurance status through the bill-versus-paid provision, and raise constitutional concerns involving equal protection, collateral source rules, and separation of powers. They also criticized the bill for not addressing other drivers of malpractice, such as hospital practices, prior authorization, staffing, and background checks for out-of-state doctors. Some witnesses urged amendments to protect the Patient Compensation Fund, ensure future medical expenses are covered, require minimum surcharge settings, and improve oversight of providers entering the state. Committee members questioned the sponsor and witnesses about whether the bill would actually lower premiums, whether it would improve access to care, and how it would affect hospitals, independent providers, and the Patient Compensation Fund. The sponsor said the bill was based on negotiations and comparisons with other states, and that it should help premiums over time. Members raised concerns about the fund’s solvency, the role of hospitals in the fund, and whether some provisions would survive legal challenge. No final vote was taken in the portion of the meeting provided; the chair indicated amendments would be discussed later and the committee would continue the hearing the next day.

Transcript Highlights:

• Your House Judiciary Committee is called to order.
• The first item on the agenda is Senate Bill 38: fees on registered pet food. ...registered pet food.
• I'm a registered lobbyist for the Pet Food Institute.
• be under-inclusive.
• Madam Chair, Senator, we are the House.

Bills: SB38 , SB17 , SB41 , SB264

Committee: House House Judiciary

Keywords: SB38, pet food, registered pet food, registration fee, fees, sunset repeal, repeal of repeal, revenue, state fee, business regulation, animal feed, pet food registration, New Mexico, gun control, firearm safety, dealer regulation, illegal trade, background checks, sexual crimes, statute of limitations

Transcript Highlights:

• I used to haul in strays all the time to my parents' house.
• Whenever there is a threat to our pets and our pets...
• But yet, we still have irresponsible pet owners.
• Pet food is just a portion of that.
• for pet food, we have this cutoff of 200%, right?

Bills: SB38 , SB46 , SB18

Committee: Senate Senate Conservation

Keywords: SB38, pet food, registered pet food, registration fee, fees, sunset repeal, repeal of repeal, revenue, state fee, business regulation, animal feed, pet food registration, New Mexico, SB46, organic waste, solid waste, waste diversion, composting, compost feedstock, waste characterization study

Transcript Highlights:

• Will the House come to order? Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. >> Mr.
• So, welcome to your House of Representatives.
• ><c> of</c> welcome to your House of welcome to your House of Representatives.
• </c> &gt;&gt; Madam Speaker, I move that this house &gt;&gt; Madam Speaker, I move that this house stand
• The House stands adjourned carried.

Bills: HB2139 , HB1892 , HB1893 , HB1890 , HB2335 , HB2468 , HB2091 , HB2092 , HB1878 , HB2297 , HB2127 , HB1785 , HB2345 , HB2344 , HB1780 , HB1891 , HB2398 , HB1764 , HB2564 , HB1783 , HB2567 , HB1934 , HB1778 , HB1781 , HB2621 , HB2019 , HB1803 , HB2454 , HB1811 , HB1943 , HB1589 , HB1607 , HB1851 , HB2490 , HB2546 , HB2568 , HB1972 , HB2391 , HB2575 , HB1896 , HB2399 , HB2004 , HB1894 , HB2397 , HB2498 , HB2560 , HB2310 , HB2214 , HB2167 , HB2197 , HB2116 , HB1879 , HB1596 , HB2096 , HB2298 , HB2343 , HB2566 , HB1518 , HB2044 , HB2336 , HB1603 , HB1718 , HB1740 , HB1616 , HB2171 , HB2022 , HB2347 , HB1882 , HB1708 , HB2086 , HB2154 , HB2027 , HB2179 , HB1620 , HB1913 , HB2159 , HB1597 , HB2121 , HB1864 , HB2305 , HB2576 , HB1713 , HB1729 , HB1756 , HB2122 , HB2559 , HB1743 , HB1733 , HB1868 , HB1723 , HB1711 , HB1812 , HB2515 , HB1724 , HB1604 , HB2270 , HB1722 , HB1727 , HB1920 , HB1593

Keywords: invasive species, Queensland longhorn beetle, agriculture, environmental impact, University of Hawaii, Board of Education, Hawaii public schools, teacher representative, nonvoting member, bargaining unit 5, HSTA, teachers union, education governance, school board, executive session, collective bargaining, public school teacher, policy-making body, student representative, military representative

Transcript Highlights:

• Oh, and just to reiterate for people who might be here, we've rolled House Bill 25 and House Bill 199
• We've rolled House Bill 25 and House Bill 199.

Bills: HB25 , SB38 , SB101 , HB199

Committee: House House Consumer & Public Affairs

Keywords: juvenile delinquency, firearm possession, criminal background checks, state law, gun control, youth offense, conviction, public safety, SB38, pet food, registered pet food, registration fee, fees, sunset repeal, repeal of repeal, revenue, state fee, business regulation, animal feed, pet food registration

Transcript Highlights:

• Next, we'll take up tab 1, Senate Bill 158 on pet insurance by Senator Jones.
• SB 158 requires agents who sell pet insurance to complete two hours of continuing education on these
• This ensures agents understand the benefits, exclusions, and wellness components of pet insurance so
• We have one appearance, Donovan Brown, North American Pet Health Insurance Association.
• We have one appearance, Donovan Brown, North American Pet Health Insurance Association.

Bills: S0158 , S0314 , S0618 , S0684 , S0838 , S0990 , S1000 , S1082 , S1452 , S1494 , S1500 , S1568 , S1706

Committee: Senate Banking and Insurance

Keywords: pet insurance, consumer protection, insurance regulation, policy disclosure, agent training, payment stablecoin, financial regulation, anti-money laundering, state oversight, digital currency, financial services, workers compensation, Florida statute, commercial insurance, insurance board, electronic signatures, vehicle titles, insurance regulations, auditing, total loss vehicles

Summary: The Banking and Insurance Committee heard and advanced a wide range of insurance, financial services, and probate bills. Early in the meeting, SB 1000 on trust fund interest for attorney trust accounts was explained as setting a floor and ceiling tied to the Wall Street Journal prime rate and was reported favorably. The committee then took up CS/SB 1082 on a statewide provider and health plan claim dispute resolution program for emergency out-of-network claims. After extensive discussion about the relationship between the state and federal No Surprises Act processes, an amendment was withdrawn due to concerns about clarity and scope, but the bill itself was supported by providers and insurers and was reported favorably. The committee also approved SB 684 on electronic signatures for total loss vehicles and vessels, CS/SB 158 on pet insurance consumer disclosures and agent education, SB 1494 expanding breast cancer screening coverage, CS/SB 314 on digital assets and stablecoin issuers, and CS/SB 1500 on uncontested probate procedures and small-estate administration. SB 618 on workers’ compensation insurance was amended to raise the consent-to-rate cap for workers’ compensation policies from 10% to 20% and then reported favorably, with supporters saying it would help keep higher-risk employers in the voluntary market. CS/SB 1568 creating a Florida Stablecoin Pilot Program was amended to remove authority for a Florida coin and limit the program to existing stablecoins, then passed. Later, the committee approved CS/SB 838 on electronic payment convenience fees for retail installment contracts, with the sponsor emphasizing that a fee-free payment option must still be offered. SB 1452, the Department of Financial Services agency bill, was amended and reported favorably; it covered My Safe Florida Home administration, insurance and licensing changes, unclaimed property updates, and other DFS-related provisions. The committee also passed SB 1706 on the My Safe Florida Condominium Pilot Program, targeting owner-occupied condominiums at or below 80% of area median income, and SB 990 on protected cell captive insurance companies, which supporters said would modernize Florida’s captive insurance laws and encourage more competition. The meeting ended with all listed bills reported favorably and the committee adjourned.

Bills: HB146 , HB322 , HB469 , HB1183 , HB1481 , HB1509 , HB1510 , HB1511 , HB1514 , HB1515 , HB1516 , HB1520 , HB1522 , HB1524 , HB1531 , HB1535 , HB1548 , HB1550 , HB1559 , HB1573 , HB1574 , HB1590 , HB1593 , HB1601 , HB1603 , HB1615 , HB1628 , HB1643 , HB1644 , HB1645 , HB1648 , HB1663 , HB1667 , HB1671 , HB1678 , HB1679 , HB1682 , HB1688 , HB1691 , HB1692 , HB1695 , HB1696 , HB1697 , HB1716 , HB1721 , HB1724 , HB1725 , HB1728 , HB1730 , HB1733 , HB1737 , HB1738 , HB1739 , HB1740 , HB1741 , HB1742 , HB1752 , HB1753 , HB1764 , HB1768 , HB1769 , HB1777 , HB1782 , HB1790 , HB1799 , HB1810 , HB1823 , HB1824 , HB1832 , HB1839 , HB1840 , HB1844 , HB1845 , HB1850 , HB1851 , HB1858 , HB1860 , HB1864 , HB1870 , HB1873 , HB1875 , HB1877 , HB1878 , HB1880 , HB1881 , HB1886 , HB1888 , HB1890 , HB1892 , HB1893 , HB1898 , HB1921 , HB1934

Keywords: judiciary, Hawaiian language, Ōlelo Hawaiʻi, language access, cultural preservation, voter registration, automatic registration, state agencies, electoral participation, opt-out system, disability, parking, travel placard, accessibility, mobility, retirement, pension, law enforcement, public safety, Hawaii Revised Statutes

Bills: HB146 , HB322 , HB469 , HB1183 , HB1481 , HB1509 , HB1510 , HB1511 , HB1514 , HB1515 , HB1516 , HB1520 , HB1522 , HB1524 , HB1531 , HB1535 , HB1548 , HB1550 , HB1559 , HB1573 , HB1574 , HB1590 , HB1593 , HB1601 , HB1603 , HB1615 , HB1628 , HB1643 , HB1644 , HB1645 , HB1648 , HB1663 , HB1667 , HB1671 , HB1678 , HB1679 , HB1682 , HB1688 , HB1691 , HB1692 , HB1695 , HB1696 , HB1697 , HB1716 , HB1721 , HB1724 , HB1725 , HB1728 , HB1730 , HB1733 , HB1737 , HB1738 , HB1739 , HB1740 , HB1741 , HB1742 , HB1752 , HB1753 , HB1764 , HB1768 , HB1769 , HB1777 , HB1782 , HB1790 , HB1799 , HB1810 , HB1823 , HB1824 , HB1832 , HB1839 , HB1840 , HB1844 , HB1845 , HB1850 , HB1851 , HB1858 , HB1860 , HB1864 , HB1870 , HB1873 , HB1875 , HB1877 , HB1878 , HB1880 , HB1881 , HB1886 , HB1888 , HB1890 , HB1892 , HB1893 , HB1898 , HB1921 , HB1934

Keywords: judiciary, Hawaiian language, Ōlelo Hawaiʻi, language access, cultural preservation, voter registration, automatic registration, state agencies, electoral participation, opt-out system, disability, parking, travel placard, accessibility, mobility, retirement, pension, law enforcement, public safety, Hawaii Revised Statutes

Bills: HB146 , HB322 , HB469 , HB1183 , HB1481 , HB1509 , HB1510 , HB1511 , HB1514 , HB1515 , HB1516 , HB1520 , HB1522 , HB1524 , HB1531 , HB1535 , HB1548 , HB1550 , HB1559 , HB1573 , HB1574 , HB1590 , HB1593 , HB1601 , HB1603 , HB1615 , HB1628 , HB1643 , HB1644 , HB1645 , HB1648 , HB1663 , HB1667 , HB1671 , HB1678 , HB1679 , HB1682 , HB1688 , HB1691 , HB1692 , HB1695 , HB1696 , HB1697 , HB1716 , HB1721 , HB1724 , HB1725 , HB1728 , HB1730 , HB1733 , HB1737 , HB1738 , HB1739 , HB1740 , HB1741 , HB1742 , HB1752 , HB1753 , HB1764 , HB1768 , HB1769 , HB1777 , HB1782 , HB1790 , HB1799 , HB1810 , HB1823 , HB1824 , HB1832 , HB1839 , HB1840 , HB1844 , HB1845 , HB1850 , HB1851 , HB1858 , HB1860 , HB1864 , HB1870 , HB1873 , HB1875 , HB1877 , HB1878 , HB1880 , HB1881 , HB1886 , HB1888 , HB1890 , HB1892 , HB1893 , HB1898 , HB1921 , HB1934

Keywords: judiciary, Hawaiian language, Ōlelo Hawaiʻi, language access, cultural preservation, voter registration, automatic registration, state agencies, electoral participation, opt-out system, disability, parking, travel placard, accessibility, mobility, retirement, pension, law enforcement, public safety, Hawaii Revised Statutes

Transcript Highlights:

• I was like Senator Hamblen, and I put solar on my house in 2010. Solar on my house in 2010.
• There are a number of small businesses in the pet food industry.
• And so it was mentioned that of 88,000 pets this last year, 88,000 pets this last year—88,000, that's
• Is our house big? Well, I guess our house is big. Was it bigger? Was it bigger?
• Okay, is our house big? Well, I guess our house is big. Was it bigger than the moon?

Bills: SB97 , SB55 , SB40 , SB38 , SB120 , SB113 , SB116 , SB117 , SB118

Committee: Senate Senate Tax, Business & Transportation

Keywords: tax credits, municipality, county property, industrial revenue bonds, economic development, qualified expenditures, solar energy, tax credit, renewable energy, photovoltaic, solar thermal, New Mexico, economic incentive, energy independence, SB40, Driver Privacy and Safety Act, automated license plate reader, ALPR, license plate reader, vehicle surveillance

Transcript Highlights:

• Some years back I served as the vice chair of the Education Committee in the House, and I always love
• Lastly, a board must annually submit a report to the governor, Senate president, and speaker of the House
• The Speaker of the House on October 1st that includes information and details on the adopted research
• Last year, the House Select Committee on China identified the following issues at Arizona's flagship

Bills: SB1074 , SB1327 , SB1475 , SB1582 , SB1583 , SB1598

Committee: Senate Education

Keywords: student discipline, classroom management, temporary removal, administrative action, education policy, foreign relations, university governance, research security, international agreements, Arizona Board of Regents, interscholastic activities, student eligibility, criminal offenses, school district, youth sports, academic participation, conduct, planned communities, homeowners association, HOA

Transcript Highlights:

• Often affordable housing projects encompass more than just affordable housing.
• The entire island because we house your gas. We house your airport. We house your sewage.
• The entire island because we house your gas. We house your airport. We house your sewage.
• The entire island because we house your gas. We house your airport. We house your sewage.
• The entire island because we house your gas. We house your airport. We house your sewage.

Bills: HB1924 , HB2121 , HB1928 , HB1979 , HB1650 , HB1543 , HB1981 , HB1982

Committee: House Energy & Environmental Protection

Keywords: mattress recycling, waste management, producer responsibility, environmental health, steafardship program, electronic cigarettes, disposable devices, environmental protection, plastic pollution, lithium batteries, pollution control, public health, deposit beverage container, bottle bill, container deposit law, container redemption, recycling refund, extended producer responsibility, EPR, deposit return system

Summary: The committee heard testimony on several measures related to waste, recycling, and environmental review. On HB 1924, which would establish a mattress stewardship program, the Department of Health said it stood on written testimony and offered comments, while Hawaii Reef and Ocean Coalition and one individual supported the bill and the International Sleep Products Association opposed it. No questions were raised and the committee moved on. A large portion of the hearing focused on HB 2121, which would prohibit the sale of disposable vapes in Hawaii. The Department of Health supported the measure but suggested the bill may be better placed in a different part of state law because the cited waste-management section regulates products after consumption, while still praising the effort to remove disposable vapes from the market and environment. Testimony in strong support came from the Coalition for Tobacco Free Hawaii Youth Council, Hawaii Public Health Institute, Hawaii COPD Coalition, Hawaii Health and Harm Reduction Center, the City and County of Honolulu, and many individuals; supporters emphasized youth vaping, toxic waste, lithium battery fire risks, and environmental harm. There was at least one opposing individual and the International Sleep Products Association was listed in opposition. The committee noted there were many written testimonies and no immediate vote was taken. The committee also heard HB 1928 on the deposit beverage container recycling program. The Department of Health stood on written testimony. The Solid Waste Task Force of Hawaii Environmental Change Agents and Upstream supported the bill but urged amendments to better integrate reuse and reusables, strengthen enforcement, clarify definitions, and protect existing redemption centers. The Hawaii Food Industry Association supported the concept of a backdrop program but preferred strengthening the existing program and raised concerns about undefined fees, existing infrastructure, and future audit costs. The Chamber of Commerce Hawaii supported the bill, and the chair said the measure needs work and that decision-making would occur in a few days. Finally, the committee took up HB 979 on environmental review and HB 1650 on environmental assessments. For HB 979, OPSD offered amendments, HCDA supported the bill but suggested clarifying the affordable-housing definition, Kauai Island Utility Cooperative supported it, and Earthjustice was asked about the court process for environmental challenges; the chair asked about shortening the challenge period and the relationship between environmental court, the intermediate court of appeals, and the Supreme Court. For HB 1650, OPSD and the State Historic Preservation Division stood on written testimony, OHA asked to retain historic sites, and several groups and individuals testified in support or opposition. Opponents argued that removing Wiki special district and historic sites from Chapter 343 trigger language would weaken environmental review and risk impacts to iwi kūpuna and historic resources.