Transcript Highlights:

• Lovely, resolutions congratulating George K.
• Lovely, resolutions congratulating George K.
• The ayes have it, and the resolutions are adopted. Reports of the committee.
• The ayes have it, and the rule is suspended. Question now comes on suspension of Joint Rule 12.
• The ayes have it, and the rule is suspended.

Summary: The Senate took up House No. 801, an act relative to the town of Cheshire’s special election, and advanced it through third reading and passage to be engrossed. The chamber also adopted resolutions congratulating George K. Halley on his retirement from the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. The Committee on Rules reported that joint rules should be suspended for several Senate petitions, and the Senate agreed to suspend Senate Rule 36 and Joint Rule 12 so the matters could be considered forthwith and referred to the appropriate committees. One House petition, filed by Mark J. Cusack, seeking authorization for automated curb enforcement and improved parking violation procedures, was referred to the Committee on Transportation. The Senate also welcomed Councillor Karen Brogan, Mayor of the Letterkenny-Milford Municipal District in Donegal County, Ireland, and recognized the ongoing Massachusetts-Ireland partnership in tourism, investment, culture, and sport. Later, the Senate agreed to adjourn in memory of Dr. Rashad Hardaway, with a moment of silence observed, and then adjourned to meet again on Thursday at 11 a.m.

Transcript Highlights:

• We have a joint resolution to take up at this time, JRS 49, a joint resolution relating to weekend adjournment
• Listen to the reading of the<00:08:09.800><c> resolution.</c> the resolution. the resolution.
• So, H. 744 amends Rule 3 of the Vermont Rules of Criminal Procedure, which is the rule that governs arrests
• ,</c> Advisory Committee on Criminal Rules, Advisory Committee on Criminal Rules, the<00:12:08.280><c
• </c><00:12:11.240><c> Committee,</c> member of the Judicial Rules Committee, member of the Judicial Rules

Transcript Highlights:

• Would you like to appeal my ruling? So if that's your ruling, then yes, Mr.
• Would you like to appeal my ruling? So if that's your ruling, then yes, Mr.
• Senate Concurrent Resolution 1028.
• That is minority rule. The people who have the least votes get their way with this two-thirds rule.
• This two-thirds rule is wrong because it is ruled by the minority.

Transcript Highlights:

• The Committee on Rules reports recommending the following resolutions ought to be adopted.
• Resolutions filed by Representative McKenna, commending the New England Hemophilia Association on its
• Wongus August now moves suspension of the rules.
• The ayes have it; rules are suspended. The question now is on adoption of the resolutions.
• The ayes have it; the resolutions are adopted. Mr.

Summary: The House opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and then took up two resolutions reported by the Committee on Rules: one commemorating the 100th birthday of Leona Dugas Barrett of Webster, and another commending the New England Hemophilia Association for recognizing March 2025 as Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month. The House suspended the rules and adopted both resolutions by voice vote. The chamber then considered House Bill 58, an amended fiscal year 2025 supplemental appropriations bill. The House first voted on and adopted the emergency preamble after a roll call, then reconsidered and adopted it again by a larger roll call vote. After that, a call of the yeas and nays was ordered on final passage. On final passage, House Bill 58 was passed to be enacted by a vote of 127 in favor and 23 opposed. The House also adopted an order to adjourn and reconvene the next day at 11 a.m.

Transcript Highlights:

• Senate resolution that I had entered into the journal.
• President, Senate resolution. Mr. Pizzo, you're recognized? Mr.
• The resolution was introduced; all members voted yes.
• Before I recognize the Rules Chair for a motion, are there any announcements?
• Madam Rules Chair, you're recognized for a final motion? Thank you, Mr. President.

Summary: The Senate opened with prayer, the pledge, and several introductions recognizing visitors and groups in the gallery, including Moffitt Cancer Center for “Moffitt Day,” students from Lakeland Christian School, representatives from the space industry for Space Day, Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity members, licensed investigators, and local delegations from Groveland, Polk County, Auburndale, and the College of the Florida Keys. The chamber then moved to the special order calendar with Committee Substitute for Committee Substitute for Senate Bill 112, relating to children with developmental disabilities. Senator Harrell presented the bill as a major autism-focused measure aimed at earlier diagnosis and expanded services. The bill would expand autism screening and referral grants, extend Early Steps services to age four with a federal waiver, designate the University of Florida Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment as a coordinating research hub, create grants for autism-focused charter schools and summer programs, and establish a microcredential for teachers, health workers, and daycare workers serving children with autism. Senators Davis, Jones, Osgood, Duma, and Wright spoke in support while raising concerns about provider recruitment, Medicaid managed care coverage, the need for technology and research, and the importance of early intervention and adult services. Harrell closed by saying the bill was only “step one,” addressed provider and funding questions, and emphasized research and statewide coordination. The Senate passed CS/CS/SB 112 by a vote of 38-0 and then adopted a motion to waive the rules and immediately certify the bill to the House. Senators also co-introduced Senate Resolution 1856 honoring the life and legacy of Senator Geraldine Thompson, with 38 co-introducers recorded. In addition, Senate Bill 1324 by Senator Simon was withdrawn from further consideration, and the Senate adjourned until the following Wednesday.

Transcript Highlights:

• Introduction, first reading, and reference of bills to joint resolutions.
• House Resolution 25, by Ways and Means Committee, relating to rule approval by the House Commerce and
• Senate Bill 1226, by Judiciary and Rules Committee, regarding sample collections.
• Senate Bill 1239, by Judiciary and Rules Committee.
• I ask unanimous consent that House Joint Memorial 17, House Concurrent Resolution 27, House Resolution

Transcript Highlights:

• The Committee on Rules reports recommending the resolutions filed by Representative Souser of Framingham
• The ayes have it; the rules are suspended. The question now is on adoption of the resolution.
• The ayes have it; the resolution is adopted.
• Representative Garballey moved Rule 7A. All those in favor say aye. All those opposed, nay.
• The ayes have it; Rule 7A is suspended.

Transcript Highlights:

• I move adoption of House Resolution 4691.
• It has been moved and seconded that the House adopt House Resolution 4691.
• With the consent of the House, the rules will be suspended.
• You can have different rules for folks who are in district courts.
• rules for folks who are in Superior Court all across the state.

Bills: HB1160 , HB1289 , HB1339 , HB1798 , HB1065 , HB2113 , HB2124 , HB2125 , HB2134 , HB2140 , HB2185 , HB2191 , HB2205 , HB2219 , HB2245 , HB2283 , HB2343 , HB2406 , HB2501 , HB2574 , HB1544 , HB1834 , HB2156 , HB2188 , HB2206 , HB2478 , HJM4012 , HB1104 , HB1152 , HB1254 , HB1443 , HB1982 , HB2006 , HB2179 , HB2203 , HB2297 , HB2322 , HB2329 , HB2379 , HB2388 , HB2399 , HB2462 , HB2464 , HB2495 , HB2544 , HB2551 , HB2636 , HB2192 , HB2251 , HB2262 , HB2266 , HB2298 , HB2320 , HB2323 , HB2351 , HB2401 , HB2405 , HB2442 , HB2523 , HB2593 , HB2632 , HB2661 , HB1496 , HB1898 , HB2095 , HB2157 , HB2225 , HB2274 , HB2311 , HB2325 , HB2333 , HB2476 , HB2508 , HB2552 , HB1343 , HB1634 , HB1707 , HB1906 , HB1909 , HB2196 , HB2244 , HB2339 , HB2361 , HB2384 , HB2389 , HB2410 , HB2468 , HB2475 , HB2521 , HB2548 , HB2619 , HB2637 , HB2720

Keywords: design review, local government, land use, zoning, project permits, housing density, middle housing, affordable housing, parking minimums, single-family zoning, infill development, growth management, comprehensive plan, permit streamlining, objective development regulations, architectural review, administrative review, transit-oriented development, accessory dwelling units, ADU

Summary: The House convened with a quorum, offered the Pledge of Allegiance and prayer, approved the prior day’s minutes, and adopted House Resolution 4691 recognizing Presidents’ Day. Supporters of the resolution praised presidential leadership and civic ideals, while one member used the occasion to note the historical harms and contradictions of figures such as Washington, Lincoln, and FDR. The resolution was adopted by voice vote, and the House also recognized visiting former legislators and Black leaders in the chamber. The chamber then took up several bills, often suspending the rules to move measures directly to third reading. Second Substitute House Bill 1923, creating a local option for passenger-only ferry districts, passed 84-11 after debate over ferry reliability, local control, and possible tax “stacking.” Substitute House Bill 2475, requiring language-accessible public programs and services, passed 62-33 amid support for access and safety and opposition over unfunded mandates, overregulation, and concerns about technology and assimilation. Engrossed Substitute House Bill 2508, clarifying the Office of Independent Investigations’ authority, passed 90-6 after a technical amendment; supporters said it would improve police accountability processes, while some noted remaining concerns about investigations. House Bill 2464, requiring reporting and law-enforcement response data for incidents at private detention facilities, passed 58-38, with supporters emphasizing transparency and critics calling it political and questioning the agency chosen to collect the data. Substitute House Bill 2203, creating reckless interference with emergency barricades, passed 94-2 after testimony about flood rescues and the need for stronger deterrence. Second Substitute House Bill 2384, increasing oversight of continuing care retirement communities, passed 78-14; supporters cited senior protections and solvency, while opponents worried about duplicative costs. Second Substitute House Bill 2333, allowing certain campaign funds to be used for security and related protections for elected officials and candidates, passed 71-21 after debate over political violence and concerns about self-dealing. Second Substitute House Bill 1909, creating a Court Unification Task Force, passed 56-36, with supporters citing inconsistent court administration and opponents defending local control. The House also passed Second Substitute House Bill 1906 on water system rate transparency and consumer protection, 91-1; Engrossed Substitute House Bill 2548 on health care market standards and mergers, 53-38; Substitute House Bill 2405 establishing a PTSD pilot program with early treatment and return-to-work provisions, 90-1; and Substitute House Bill 2323 creating a Blue Envelope Program for autistic and neurodiverse drivers during traffic stops, 92-1. Throughout the day, members frequently split along lines of transparency, consumer protection, public safety, local control, and concerns about mandates or regulatory burden.

Transcript Highlights:

• Jim Waldman told me once, read the rules. If you understand the rules, you'll always win.
• This bill currently provides that any existing local ordinances, resolutions, rules, regulations, programs
• It says resolutions, rules, programs, or policies.
• resolution.
• , Official action such as adopting ordinances, resolutions, rules, regulations, programs, or policies

Transcript Highlights:

• We stand in support of this resolution.
• We ask that you give this resolution a due pass. Thank you. Public trust.
• We ask that you give this resolution a due pass. Thank you.
• We are due to vote in favor of this resolution.
• That ruling called for a multilingual and multicultural approach to education.

Committee: House House Government, Elections & Indian Affairs

Transcript Highlights:

• So one resolution has been... three resolutions have been presented. ...three resolutions have been presented
• Joint Rule 12 is suspended.
• for joint rules.
• These are good rules.
• I'm going to Rule 57D.

Summary: The Senate first adopted three congratulatory resolutions recognizing the retirements of Dolores Hayes, Lisa Audet, and Kate Fitzpatrick. It then handled several procedural matters, including suspending Joint Rule 12 to refer a sick leave bank bill for a Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office employee to the Committee on Public Service and referring House petitions to their respective committees. The chamber also adopted a conference report on the joint rules for the 2025-2026 session after remarks from Senators Creem, Tarr, Lovely, and Fattman emphasizing transparency, public access, recorded votes, longer notice for hearings and conference reports, remote participation, and periodic review of the rules. The report was accepted by a 40-0 roll call. The Senate then took up the bill strengthening health care protections in the Commonwealth, Senate No. 2538, commonly described as Shield Act 2.0. Senator Friedman and others argued the bill was needed to protect reproductive and gender-affirming care from out-of-state and federal interference, to limit disclosure of sensitive information, to create a state-level EMTALA-style protection for emergency care and active labor, and to strengthen privacy and licensing protections for providers and institutions. Senators Cyr, Lovely, and Fattman also spoke in support, framing the bill as a response to recent federal and state threats and as an extension of Massachusetts’ prior shield-law work. The chamber considered numerous amendments. Several were rejected, including amendments by Senators Finegold and Keenan and multiple Tarr amendments on topics such as medical records, consistency with existing law, and public health data collection. Some amendments were adopted, including a Montigny amendment on health-connected data disclosure, a Brownsberger amendment further protecting privacy for reproductive and gender-affirming care, a Rauch amendment clarifying protections for patients in active labor, a Tarr amendment removing an exemption for data from personal tracking devices, and a Rodrigues corrective amendment. After the amendments, the Ways and Means substitute was adopted, the bill was ordered to a third reading, and it then passed to be engrossed by a 37-3 roll call. At the end of the session, the Senate adopted a memorial adjournment in honor of former Senate Majority Leader Louis P. Bertinazi. The Governor also filed a message submitting a bill to build resilience for Massachusetts communities, authorizing future capital spending for energy and environmental affairs, which was referred to the Committee on Environment and Natural Resources. The Senate then adopted an order to meet again the following Monday at 1 p.m. and adjourned.

Transcript Highlights:

• Uh, stand by while So, what's the rules?
• You want to do a we work out the rules.
• </c> priorities set forth in this resolution. priorities set forth in this resolution.
• Um, it makes opposes this resolution.
• :56:16.880><c> OHA's</c> The resolution was introduced at OHA's request.

Summary: The Committee on Hawaiian Affairs heard multiple gubernatorial nominations to island burial councils, with testimony focused on the importance of filling vacancies so the councils can reach quorum and fulfill their kuleana to protect iwi kūpuna and burial sites. For GM 674, Kavuna Khalipi was introduced as OHA’s nominee for the Molokaʻi burial council, with OHA, SHPD, and several community members testifying in support and describing her cultural grounding, community service, and experience in mālama ʻāina. Testifiers also stressed that burial councils are essential for protecting ancestral remains and that prolonged vacancies have left sacred sites vulnerable. Khalipi herself said she was honored to serve but expressed concern about accepting the appointment without quorum, saying she did not want to waste a term if the council could not function effectively. The chair explained the Senate advice-and-consent process and the consequences of inaction, and after discussion Khalipi asked to pull her nomination from the committee. The chair then deferred decision-making on GM 674 until April 10 at 1 p.m. to clarify the process and avoid unintended rejection. The committee then heard testimony on GM 676, Dane Maxwell for the Maui and Lānaʻi burial council, GM 677, Noani Parisa, GM 678, Caroline Hartman, and GM 679, Benedict Duman. Supporters, including SHPD and OHA, highlighted each nominee’s cultural knowledge, preservation work, genealogy, and experience with burial or historic preservation matters. Testimony repeatedly linked the nominations to the need for functioning burial councils, especially in light of the 2023 Maui fires and long-standing vacancies. No votes were taken during the portion of the meeting provided; the chair indicated votes would be taken at the end of the agenda.

Transcript Highlights:

• The resolution is adopted.
• And I stand in support of this resolution.
• The resolution is adopted.
• The resolution is adopted.
• Any other motions or resolutions at this time? Any other motions or resolutions at this time?

Summary: The Senate opened with a prayer and Pledge of Allegiance, including a remembrance of the 111th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. The chamber then took up Senate Resolution 87 by Senator Archuleta, which recognized April 24 as the anniversary of the Armenian Genocide and emphasized historical remembrance, support for Armenian communities, and concern over ongoing threats and humanitarian issues affecting Armenians. Several senators spoke in support, and the resolution was adopted by a 37-0 vote. Senator Archuleta then introduced members of the Armenian community in the gallery. The Senate also adopted several other resolutions honoring communities and causes. Senator Cortese presented SR 93 honoring Jim Plunkett’s football career and his role as a trailblazing Latino athlete; senators highlighted his Heisman Trophy, Super Bowl wins, and pending Hispanic Football Hall of Fame recognition, and the resolution passed unanimously. Senator Wiener presented SCR 124 on transportation access for Californians with epilepsy, focusing on how seizure-related driving restrictions can limit employment, education, and medical care; it was adopted unanimously. Senator Allen presented SCR 158 declaring April Arts, Culture and Creativity Month and marking the 50th anniversary of the California Arts Council, with remarks celebrating the state’s arts economy and longtime arts leaders; it also passed unanimously. Later, Senator Alvarado-Gil presented SCR 159 designating April as California Rodeo Appreciation Month, describing the history, cultural significance, diversity, and economic role of rodeo in California. Supportive remarks followed from another senator, and the resolution was adopted unanimously. The author then introduced rodeo guests, including athletes and rodeo association leaders. The Senate also heard multiple privileges-of-the-floor introductions, including arts figures such as Luis Valdez, Cheech Marin, and Ruth Asawa’s son Paul Lanier, as well as student and community guests. The chamber approved the consent calendar by a 38-0 vote, noted committee meetings for Human Services, Military and Veterans, and Privacy, and adjourned with the next floor session scheduled for April 23, 2026, at 9:00 a.m.

Transcript Highlights:

• on second reading, assignment, reassignment of bills and resolutions, bills, resolutions, conference
• on second reading, assignment, a reassignment of bills and resolutions, bills, resolutions, conference
• House Concurrent Resolution 1024 by Hildebrant of the House and Seifried of the Senate, a resolution
• House Concurrent Resolution 1022 by DeBrenzky of the House and Green of the Senate, a resolution relating
• House Joint Resolution 1091 by Kendricks of the House, a resolution relating to business and commerce

Bills: HB4028 , HB4075 , HB4077 , HB4074 , HB4076 , SB1221 , SB1921 , SB2118 , SB1932 , SB2134 , HCR1025 , SB1432 , HCR1024 , HCR1022 , SB1122 , HB4029 , HB4063 , HB4073 , HB4078 , SB1936 , SB44 , SB237 , SB248 , SB1360 , SB985 , SB1204 , SB1239 , SB1307 , SB2143 , SB1428 , SB1390 , SB1400 , SB1405 , SB1732 , SB1832 , SB1859 , SB1989 , SB2018 , SB1427

Summary: The House opened with roll call, prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, and several recognitions and introductions, including Deer Creek students, Skiatook Chamber members, Sand Springs youth leaders, and international visitors studying U.S. energy policy. The chamber also honored the Nurse of the Day, Marla Lyceum, and heard a lengthy farewell speech from Minority Leader Munson reflecting on her service, constituent work, leadership, and bipartisan relationships. Members then took up several special presentations and resolutions, including HCR 1024 recognizing Route 66 Day and its economic importance, HCR 1022 honoring National Lineman Appreciation Day, and a citation for Langston University Day at the Capitol. The House also recognized Deputy Kenton Blumenthal as Oklahoma’s 2025 Officer of the Year for heroic actions during a dangerous pursuit. Later, the House introduced the pages of the week. On legislation, the House passed SB 1122 on ad valorem tax, which supporters said would equalize tax treatment for broadband infrastructure and promote business fairness, over some concern about tax policy and revenue impacts. The chamber also passed HB 4029, HB 4063, HB 4073, HB 4078, and SB 1936, with emergency clauses adopted on the first four. HB 4063, which referred two previously approved state questions to a special August election, drew extended debate over ballot timing, turnout, and whether combining the questions was appropriate; it ultimately passed and the special election referral was approved. SB 1936, which elevates falsely impersonating a law enforcement officer to a D1 felony, passed unanimously.

Transcript Highlights:

• The Committee on Rules reports recommending that the following resolutions ought to be adopted: resolutions
• Willett of Worcester now moves suspension of the rules.
• The ayes have it; the rules are suspended. The question now is on adoption of the resolutions.
• Michael Wits of Boston moves suspension of the rules. Motion to suspend the rules.
• The rules are suspended.

Summary: The House opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and adopted two ceremonial resolutions: one commemorating the dedication of the Woburn Battle Road Memorial as part of the Massachusetts 250th celebration, and another recognizing May 1-7 as Elks National Youth Week. The chamber then took up House Bill 4005, a fiscal year 2025 supplemental appropriations bill using FY24 Fair Share surtax surplus funds, and ordered it to a third reading before later considering it for passage to be engrossed. During debate on the bill, the House heard a lengthy presentation in support of the proposal, which would direct about $828 million to transportation and $353 million to education. The transportation spending was described as primarily supporting the MBTA, including workforce and safety funding, reserve replenishment, station and infrastructure improvements, reduced fares, and reimbursement for tunnel closure costs, along with smaller amounts for regional transit authorities and unpaved roads. The education side included additional special education circuit breaker funding, vocational school capital, early education workforce supports, early literacy, universal school meals, higher education endowment matches, Green School Works, and ESOL waitlist reduction, with the Inspector General directed to review circuit breaker cost controls. Members then debated several amendments. One amendment related to a school athletics policy was modified by a further amendment calling for DESE analysis before implementation; both the further amendment and the underlying amendment as amended were adopted. A transportation amendment to shift $50 million from MBTA funding to Chapter 90 municipal roads was supported by members emphasizing rural road needs but was rejected on a roll call, 25-120. Another transportation amendment adding at least $300,000 for Route 93 mitigation costs in Medford was adopted, 133-20. The bill itself then passed to be engrossed on a roll call, 140-14. The House also observed moments of silence for former First Lady Kitty Dukakis and for victims of the Santo Domingo nightclub collapse, and later adopted an order to meet the next day at 11 a.m. before adjourning in memory of former Representative Philip W. Johnston.

Transcript Highlights:

• We don't follow the English rule.
• This would be an exception to that American rule as opposed to the English rule, which again was to protect
• This is Article 17, which is a dispute resolution clause. I'm stumbling. Dispute resolution clause.
• Provide rules to allow for the informal alternative dispute resolution systems, but Yeah, I could see
• We should promulgate a rule.

Committee: Senate Senate Judiciary

Transcript Highlights:

• Lovely, has presented resolutions, which the clerk will read. Thank you.
• Lovely, has presented resolutions, which the clerk will read. By Ms.
• Lovely, resolutions congratulating Cherry Farm Creamery on its 50th anniversary.
• Resolutions are adopted.
• The chair has none, and the rules are suspended.

Transcript Highlights:

• Next, we'll take up Senate Resolution 24. Senate Resolution 24 by Senator Hammer to honor Ms.
• Senate Resolution 34 is adopted. Senator Davis, we will next take up Senate Resolution 35.
• Senate Resolution 34 is adopted. Senator Davis, we will next take up Senate Resolution 35.
• Senate Resolution 35 is adopted. Senate Resolution 36.
• Senate Resolution 39 is adopted. Next, we will take up Senate Resolution 40.

Transcript Highlights:

• Resolution. I recognize the member from Ramsey, Representative Godfrey. Thank you, Madam Speaker.
• Resolution. I recognize the member 3318. Resolution.
• </c> honored to speak on a house resolution honored to speak on a house resolution recognizing<00:14:
• Members of the Rules Committee, we will meet in G3 immediately following recess.
• Members of the rules committee, Speaker.

Transcript Highlights:

• Pursuant to House Resolution 1224 and Rule 18, the chair declares the House in the Committee of the Whole
• </c> related to going back to the rules related to going back to the rules committee<00:56:41.839><c>
• </c> committee of the whole under the rule. committee of the whole under the rule.
• 6 of rule 20.
• </c> the rules and pass Senate 4465? the rules and pass Senate 4465?

Bills: SB4465 , HB7147 , HB2424 , HB7567

Keywords: FISA, intelligence, surveillance, national security, privacy, extension, law enforcement, excise tax, heavy trucks, clean vehicles, environmental policy, heavy truck excise tax, truck and trailer tax, federal retail excise tax, FET, highway trust fund, commercial trucks, Class 8 trucks, tractor-trailer, semi-truck