Rules Committee advances conference report on House Bill 1081, adds donor-name requirement to help charities

The Rules Committee voted to suspend House rules and advance the conference committee report for House Bill 1081, a bill that adjusts documentation requirements when charitable organizations seek funds on behalf of beneficiaries.

Representative Manning presented the conference committee report and told the committee the Senate's changes added a requirement for a birth certificate in some circumstances and clarified that a beneficiary may obtain a death certificate. "The Senate wanted to require a birth certificate, so this version does that. And it also clarifies that the beneficiary may obtain a death certificate, making it clear that they have a direct interest in that," Manning said.

Manning said the conference committee added a clarifying line requiring a financial institution or insurance company to provide the name of the deceased donor if the institution contacts the beneficiary. He explained some charities had been notified that funds exist but could not get the donor's name from the institution, which prevented them from beginning to gather required documents.

Representative Slager moved to suspend House Rule 153.1 so the conference committee report for House Bill 1081 could be eligible for consideration after April 15, 2025, and to amend House Rule 155.1 so the report could be provided for member distribution and held for four hours. The motion was seconded (second not specified) and the roll call recorded nine votes in favor; one member was excused. The clerk announced the motion passed, 9-0.

The conference committee report resolves technical conflicts between the House and Senate versions and adds the donor-name disclosure line to assist beneficiaries and charities in locating entitlements. No additional staff directions were recorded in the committee transcript.