What happened on Wednesday, 29 March 2023
Public Works Meetings, Trousdale County, Tennessee
Committee recommends fee adjustments and seeks lifeguards to ensure pool season opens successfully.
Utah County Commission Meeting Minutes, Utah County Commission, Utah County Commission and Boards, Utah County, Utah
Utah County opens public hearing discussing upcoming salary increases for county officers.
JUDICIARY COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
Senate discusses crime bill's role in addressing violent offenders and education challenges.
PUBLIC HEALTH, WELFARE AND LABOR COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
The Senate Public Health, Welfare and Labor Committee adopted an amendment to Senate Bill 392 to reclassify permanent cosmetics as body art and to reinstate a prohibition on performing body art on a person’s areolae or genitalia if the person is under 18. The committee passed the bill as amended by voice vote.
EDUCATION COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
House Bill 1526 aims to reduce Arkansas's diabetes and maternal mortality through breastfeeding education.
Public Works Meetings, Trousdale County, Tennessee
Committee members confirmed cameras are installed and producing good images, discussed field-light timers and cleanup work, and set the next Public Works meeting for Wednesday, April 12 at 6 p.m., then adjourned.
JUDICIARY COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
Senate Bill 495 would require longer minimum time served for the most serious offenders, rename and change rules for the parole board to a 'post prison transfer board,' expand specialty courts and reentry programming, and is projected by the sentencing commission to raise inmate population and state costs over the next decade. Committee discussion focused on earned-release credits, supervision, capacity and fiscal impacts; public testimony was scheduled after the committee recessed.
EDUCATION COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
Committee discusses Senate Bill 477 to provide free meals for students qualifying for reduced prices.
Utah County Commission Meeting Minutes, Utah County Commission, Utah County Commission and Boards, Utah County, Utah
County officials consider synchronized pay raises for departments alongside elected leaders during budget review.
EDUCATION COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
SB 473, which would limit automatic payroll deduction for professional and labor organization dues, passed the Senate Education Committee after competing testimony: proponents argued it prevents workplace pressure, while education organizations opposed losing a convenient membership option.
Public Works Meetings, Trousdale County, Tennessee
Committee members urged aggressive lifeguard recruitment to meet a 14–15 minimum for pool opening, set an April 10 application deadline with training by April 14, and recommended funding to restore volleyball courts (estimated ~$3,500).
JUDICIARY COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
The Senate Judiciary Committee approved House Bill 1550 on a voice vote after State Representative Steve Unger said the measure would speed delivery of restitution to crime victims by giving restitution priority over court fees. The bill passed the House 99–0 and received no public testimony in committee.
Utah County Commission Meeting Minutes, Utah County Commission, Utah County Commission and Boards, Utah County, Utah
County commissioners proclaim April 2 as Education and Sharing Day in honor of Rabbi Schneerson.
EDUCATION COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
Senate Education Committee approved an amended version of SB 470 that restructures how computer‑science coursework is defined and credited within CTE pathways; business and education groups urged the committee to retain a standalone computer‑science graduation requirement, while sponsors said the amendment embeds CS into relevant CTE courses.
Public Works Meetings, Trousdale County, Tennessee
Committee recommended forwarding a proposed change to roll-off rental fees — an initial set fee recorded in the packet as “3.45” (discussed as $345) and $150 for subsequent loads plus tonnage — and received an update that a front-loader truck is expected in about six weeks.
EDUCATION COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
Committee approves bill addressing student hunger with bipartisan support from Senator Dismaine and Representative Vaught.
JUDICIARY COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
Research indicates faith-based and vocational education programs are effective in lowering recidivism rates.
Utah County Commission Meeting Minutes, Utah County Commission, Utah County Commission and Boards, Utah County, Utah
The board approved a resolution authorizing up to eight hours of administrative flood response leave for county employees through Aug. 31, 2023, with department‑head approval and prorated hours for part‑time staff.
EDUCATION COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
HB 1468, requiring written parental permission before schools may call minors by names or pronouns different from their recorded name and protecting staff conscience objections, drew heated public testimony on both sides and was recommended for passage by the committee.
JUDICIARY COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
DHS introduces bill eliminating anonymous reports and enhancing penalties for information disclosure
Loomis, Placer County, California
Community members express gratitude for departing planning commissioners Bonnie and Mike's service.
EDUCATION COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
Senate Bill 172 seeks to address teacher concerns over recess becoming instructional time.
Utah County Commission Meeting Minutes, Utah County Commission, Utah County Commission and Boards, Utah County, Utah
The Utah County Board of County Commissioners unanimously adopted a resolution proclaiming April 2, 2023, Education and Sharing Day in recognition of Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson and the opening of Chabad of Utah County in Lehi.
EDUCATION COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
After testimony from district nutrition staff and health advocates, the Senate Education Committee voted favorably on legislation (SB 308, replaced by SB 477) to allow districts to use funding to provide free meals to students who currently qualify for reduced‑price meals, citing reduced stigma and lower meal debt.
Loomis, Placer County, California
Loomis town honors Mike Hogan's significant contributions to the planning commission over 16 years.
JUDICIARY COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
Senator Clark pushes for legislation ensuring absentee ballots are counted similarly to regular ones.
Utah County Commission Meeting Minutes, Utah County Commission, Utah County Commission and Boards, Utah County, Utah
The Utah County Board of County Commissioners approved raises for elected officials on March 29, 2023, after debate about timing and statutory limits. HR staff said elected-official pay cannot be prorated within a year and that a proposed 9% increase would still leave officials below market.
EDUCATION COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
Committee unanimously supports legislation requiring schools to provide concussion safety information.
EDUCATION COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
Senate Education Committee adopted an amendment to SB 370 that preserves separate deans for the two University of Arkansas law schools while keeping provisions to consolidate certain administrative functions; witnesses clashed over accreditation risk and projected savings.
Loomis, Placer County, California
Bonnie London recognized for her exemplary service on Loomis Planning Commission and community contributions
JUDICIARY COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
Senator Hammer introduces amendment targeting felony charges for underage handgun possession.
EDUCATION COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
Senator Dawson votes while seven speakers voice opposition during the committee meeting.
JUDICIARY COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
New legislation requires inmates to earn release via workforce education and expands treatment options.
Summit County Council, Summit County Commission and Boards, Summit County, Utah
Health leaders present comprehensive mission and vision strategies to adapt post-COVID challenges.
Loomis, Placer County, California
The commission read proclamations honoring outgoing commissioners Mike Hogan and Bonnie London. Both were thanked by colleagues and members of the public, including remarks from Mike Hogan and local residents.
JUDICIARY COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
Arkansas bill allows voters to choose paper ballots for improved trust and accessibility.
JUDICIARY COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
Legislation mandates longer sentences for repeat violent offenders to enhance community safety.
Summit County Council, Summit County Commission and Boards, Summit County, Utah
Real estate sales decrease while property values in Park City remain strong and increasing.
EDUCATION COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
Arkansas legislation aims to train coaches on youth sports safety to prevent injuries.
Loomis, Placer County, California
The Planning Commission nominated and elected Tim Hondurko as chair and completed a vice chair selection; roll-call votes were recorded. The commission shuffled seats and carried the motions after short procedural discussion.
JUDICIARY COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
Connor Thompson urges Arkansas Senate to reject SB 495 citing overcrowding and economic concerns.
Summit County Council, Summit County Commission and Boards, Summit County, Utah
First quarter tax revenues rise significantly, aided by improved restaurant and lodging rates.
JUDICIARY COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
Senator discusses removing restrictions for children's visitation with incarcerated parents.
Loomis, Placer County, California
Town planning staff told commissioners the administrative draft EIR for the general plan update is expected in late May–early June with a 45-day public review; staff also reported ongoing zoning ordinance work to implement the housing element and that Costco has clearance for initial grading.
EDUCATION COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
Senate committee advances bill outlining criteria for returning control to local districts.
JUDICIARY COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
Senate approves measures to enhance violent crime arrests and extend voting rights for minors.
Summit County Council, Summit County Commission and Boards, Summit County, Utah
County updates valuation processes to ensure fair assessments amidst rising property market demand.
JUDICIARY COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
Lawmakers highlight legislation addressing violent crime and parole system failures in Arkansas.
EDUCATION COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
Senator Johnson supports a bill protecting educators from job loss over student pronoun disputes.
REVENUE & TAX - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
Sponsor previewed SB133 to raise the used‑car sales‑tax exemption (current $4,000 threshold) to $7,500 or $10,000, arguing it helps lower‑income Arkansans; DFNA estimates a $3–$5 million fiscal impact depending on assumptions; the bill was not presented to the committee and may be moved from the deferred list on the Senate floor.
Summit County Council, Summit County Commission and Boards, Summit County, Utah
County officials report sandbag distribution and mitigation plans amid ongoing snow and flooding risks.
JUDICIARY COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
Committee members express concerns over rushed passage and effectiveness of Senate Bill 495.
JUDICIARY COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
Officials emphasize need to expand prison capacity and stop emergency release policies.
EDUCATION COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
Senator Chesterfield advocates for respect in teaching during culture wars debate.
EDUCATION COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
Committee passes bill allowing optional bias training to improve learning environments.
JUDICIARY COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
Senate Bill 430 aims to reform recounts and make election contests more accessible in Arkansas.
REVENUE & TAX - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
Sponsors said payments freeing the UAMS/NCI project would allow creation of a restricted reserve to address food insecurity and public‑health needs and to fund a two‑year startup of a graduate medical education program; committee approved SB479 as amended by voice vote.
JUDICIARY COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
House Bill 1550 prioritizes victim restitution payments over court fees in criminal cases.
Summit County Council, Summit County Commission and Boards, Summit County, Utah
First quarter report shows a typical growth in sales tax revenues across county areas.
EDUCATION COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
Senate passes amendment enhancing computer science standards in career and technical education
JUDICIARY COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
New bill mandates collaboration to improve prison programs and expand reentry bed utilization.
REVENUE & TAX - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
The Arkansas Senate Revenue & Tax Committee on voice votes advanced a package of tax bills including SB207 (moving certain corporate franchise fees into the state treasury), SB314 (extension for a U.S. Steel facility, adopted as amended after an expunged vote), SB419 (medical-marijuana privilege tax extension), SB434 (lowering the electronic-filing threshold), HB1523 (youth nonprofit sales cleanup) and a homestead/catastrophic reserve bill; several passed by voice vote with no recorded roll-call.
JUDICIARY COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
Prosecutors endorse significant changes to sentencing and parole classification in Arkansas.
Summit County Council, Summit County Commission and Boards, Summit County, Utah
Council endorses opioid settlement fund for Suboxone treatment and behavioral health initiatives.
EDUCATION COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
The proposed legislation mandates parental permission for students to use alternative names and pronouns.
JUDICIARY COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
Senators address inmate well-being reforms focusing on pregnant and postpartum health initiatives.
JUDICIARY COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
Senator Rasche questions differences in bill severity compared to previous legislation.
Summit County Council, Summit County Commission and Boards, Summit County, Utah
The Summit County assessor told the council the office will convert about 9,400 condominiums and 2,200 commercial parcels to a new valuation module and fill missing market data; where data are incomplete the office will use age and square footage for 2023, and staff said they will extrapolate sales across like neighborhoods to reduce uneven spikes.
PUBLIC HEALTH, WELFARE AND LABOR COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
The Public Health, Welfare and Labor Committee passed a package of bills by voice vote, including measures on naloxone access, cemetery maintenance, hospital pricing transparency, nursing‑portal permissive funding language, cosmetology licensing corrections, and multiple behavioral‑health and Medicaid items. One high‑profile measure (maternity‑leave parity) failed.
EDUCATION COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
Arkansas Senate committee discusses bill limiting payroll deduction for professional educator organizations.
EDUCATION COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
Committee approves amendment enabling teachers to choose participation in implicit bias training.
PUBLIC HEALTH, WELFARE AND LABOR COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
A proposal to require parity of maternity‑leave benefits for employers that provide abortion benefits failed after senators raised concerns about enforcement, HIPAA issues, and burden on small businesses; the committee recorded a voice vote that the bill did not pass.
JUDICIARY COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
New bill aims to reform criminal justice system and enhance deterrents against crime.
JUDICIARY COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
The committee rejected a recount‑petition bill that would have allowed small groups of voters to force countywide recounts, but approved bills limiting designated absentee bearers and allowing voters to request hand‑marked paper ballots to be tabulated.
PUBLIC HEALTH, WELFARE AND LABOR COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
The Senate Public Health, Welfare and Labor Committee adopted a series of relatively uncontroversial actions by voice vote: concurrence on HB 1102 (screening-language cleanup and timing), concurrence on SB 322, SB 320 regulating in-state online auctions as amended (processing fee retained at $5 and eBay-exemption language added) and SB 492 allowing electronic-signature alternatives to notarization.
JUDICIARY COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
After hours of testimony from prosecutors, sheriffs and criminal‑justice advocates, the Senate Judiciary Committee voted to pass Senate Bill 495, a wide-ranging corrections and sentencing rewrite that supporters say brings clarity and capacity and opponents say risks harsher penalties and increased incarceration.
PUBLIC HEALTH, WELFARE AND LABOR COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
Lawmakers voted to repeal parts of the 2021 electronic-waste law following testimony that the law created implementation confusion and left regional recycling districts without grant funding; supporters argued repeal clears conflicts with Title 25 and allows a fresh approach.
EDUCATION COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
Educators and experts urge Senate Education Committee to reject SB 470 limiting computer science classes.
JUDICIARY COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
New legislation aims to extend inmate sentences and reform parole eligibility criteria.
PUBLIC HEALTH, WELFARE AND LABOR COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
An amendment to Senate Bill 4‑65 moves parts of the Every Mom Matters (EMMA) program and the Loving Choices lifeline to the Department of Human Services and places a pause on elements tied directly to abortion services; sponsors said DHS is a better fit for care coordination functions and the bill passed as amended.
PUBLIC HEALTH, WELFARE AND LABOR COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
Representative Frank Kavanaugh presented HB 1446 to standardize quality-of-care oversight for psychiatric residential treatment facilities for children; DHS said oversight may be absorbed and coordinated, while hospitals warned the change duplicates existing regulators. Committee took testimony but no motion was offered.
JUDICIARY COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
Senators debate the psychological effects of prison visits on children and proposed visitation rights.
Utah County Commission Meeting Minutes, Utah County Commission, Utah County Commission and Boards, Utah County, Utah
Council members discuss timing for reviewing salaries of elected officials based on midyear finances.
PUBLIC HEALTH, WELFARE AND LABOR COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
House Bill 13‑85 would allow a wrap‑around payment for LARC outside Medicaid’s global delivery payment; sponsor cited cost differences and examples from other states and the committee passed the bill by voice vote.
EDUCATION COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
Committee advances legislation allowing virtual schools to proctor assessments online for students.
PUBLIC HEALTH, WELFARE AND LABOR COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas
Lawmakers and industry witnesses debated changes to Arkansas rules for permanent cosmetics and body art, including stricter training, a 1:8 instructor-student ratio, increased clock hours and reduced online instruction; opponents warned the changes could price out students and shrink the workforce. No final committee vote was taken.