Committee advances two bills to other committees in work sessions

During work sessions on Feb. 27, the House Committee on Early Childhood and Human Services advanced two bills by motion and referral.

House Bill 3,059: Taylor (staff) summarized that HB 3,059 would direct DHS and the Department of Education to jointly study the needs of youth in residential facilities who attend public schools and carries a fiscal impact. Representative Ruiz moved HB 3,059 “without recommendation as to passage” and to refer the bill to the House Committee on Education and to the Joint Committee on Ways and Means by prior reference. Chair Hartman called the roll and the motion passed by recorded vote; the committee closed the work session on HB 3,059.

House Bill 2,907: Taylor also summarized HB 2,907 as creating an income tax credit for taxpayers who invest up to $20,000 in a food bank, community garden or community food resource in a tax year; the bill takes effect 91 days after adjournment and carries a revenue impact and a prior referral to the House Committee on Revenue. Representative Ruiz moved HB 2,907 with a “due pass” recommendation and referral to the House Committee on Revenue by prior reference. Representative Elmer recorded a courtesy “no” on the roll; the motion passed and the bill will be referred to Revenue for further consideration.

Why it matters: Both motions move the bills forward in the legislative process. HB 3,059 was referred to both Education and Ways and Means by prior reference because of its cross‑agency study charge and fiscal implications. HB 2,907 will receive further review by the Revenue Committee.

Actions recorded: The committee documented motions, roll calls and official referrals for both bills during the Feb. 27 work sessions.