Video & Transcript Research : 'ACT'
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NM
New Mexico 2025 Regular Session
IC - Courts, Corrections and Justice Nov 7th, 2025
Courts, Corrections & Justice Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Now, under the act, hospitals were always defined under the act, but they didn't want to participate.
- Tort Claim Act.
- And that means that we've got to act.
- No, it's made under the current act.
- We say juvenile delinquency act changes.
CA
California 2025-2026 Regular Session
Assembly Floor Session May 29th, 2025
California House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- Assembly Bill 929 by Assembly Member Connolly and act in the water.
- Assembly Bill 1332 by Assembly Member Arons and an act relating to cannabis.
- It is our responsibility today not just to listen, but to act.
- Assembly Bill 5 by Assembly Member Berman, an act relating to elections.
- Assembly Bill 93 by Assembly Member Papin, an act relating to water.
Summary:
The Assembly convened after a quorum call, prayer, and Pledge of Allegiance, then moved through a long daily file with numerous guest introductions and recognitions, including tributes to outgoing University of California President Michael Drake, student and community advocates, and visitors connected to foster care, military appreciation, and college savings. The chamber also took up several procedural items, including concurrence in Senate amendments to ACR 75 on California Farm Week, which passed 59-0.
Members then adopted AJR 7 on protecting federal special education funding and services for students with disabilities, with broad bipartisan support and a 65-0 vote after 63 co-authors were added. The Assembly also adopted ACR 82 recognizing Foster Care Month and ACR 85 recognizing 529 College Savings Day by voice vote after adding co-authors, and ACR 89 recognizing Military Appreciation Month, also adopted by voice vote after co-authors were added. These resolutions featured testimony and remarks emphasizing support for vulnerable children, foster youth, military families, and access to higher education.
On policy bills, the Assembly passed AB 929 on groundwater and managed wetlands (41-14), AB 1026 on utility connection timelines for housing projects (52-0), AB 1332 on direct shipment of medicinal cannabis under specified conditions (55-0), AB 1356 on follow-up reporting in DHCS death investigations at treatment facilities (54-0), and AB 671 on streamlining restaurant openings through self-certification of certain plans (62-0). The chamber also approved AB 715 on anti-Semitism and school climate after extensive debate and cross-caucus support, 64-0, and AB 33 on autonomous vehicle deliveries requiring a human safety operator, 52-6. Later, AB 5 on election ballot-counting timelines passed 66-0, AB 27 and AB 28 addressing the Chiquita Canyon landfill disaster passed 61-0 and 44-6 respectively, and the Assembly began consideration of AB 43 to extend state authority over wild and scenic rivers.
MA
Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session
Joint Committee on Agriculture Jun 21st, 2026 at 10:30 am
Joint Committee on Agriculture and Fisheries
Transcript Highlights:
- , an act to address the impact of climate change on farms and fisheries.
- House 111 and Senate 53, an act promoting equity in agriculture.
- It was really an act of God, and you probably heard about this on the news.
- And Act Establishing Healthy Soil Performance Guidelines, we will move on to H. 127, an act prohibiting
- It's a tough act to follow. It is a tough act to follow.
Summary:
The Joint Committee on Agriculture opened its first hearing by outlining procedures, including three-minute testimony limits, written testimony options, and the plan to hear 27 bills in docket order. The committee then took testimony on H.11/S.53, a resolve promoting equity in agriculture, with advocates from the Massachusetts Food System Collaborative, Southeastern Mass Agricultural Partnership, and urban farming organizations describing racial and economic disparities in farming, lack of data on BIPOC farmers, barriers to land and capital, and the need for a commission to collect information and recommend policy changes. Committee members asked questions about the importance of data collection and future policy development, and the bill was repeatedly urged to be reported favorably out of committee.
Testimony also supported H.118, which would create a special commission to examine the strengths and sustainability of the Commonwealth’s emergency food network. The Amherst Survival Center described serving 1.6 million meals last year and explained that food pantries are now functioning as essential parts of the state’s food system while relying heavily on donations, volunteers, and unstable funding. Members discussed the need for a more holistic look at food security infrastructure. The committee then heard H.119/S.60 on climate change impacts on farms and fisheries, with regional planners and farm advocates describing flood damage, rising costs, canceled federal climate-smart funding, and the need for direct state support for adaptation, resilience, and infrastructure improvements.
The committee also heard testimony on H.125/H.142/S.65, a healthy soils bill, from landscape professionals who said construction sites often leave poor or stripped soil and that the bill would require better post-construction soil standards to support healthier landscapes and reduce long-term maintenance and environmental problems. Finally, the committee took extensive testimony on H.127, which would prohibit aquaculture of octopus for human consumption. Supporters, including legislators, scientists, veterinarians, students, and animal welfare advocates, argued octopus are highly intelligent and sentient, cannot be farmed humanely, and that octopus aquaculture would create environmental harms such as waste runoff, pressure on wild fish stocks, and ecosystem disruption. No votes were taken during the hearing; the bills were heard and testimony was received.
VT
Transcript Highlights:
- Next is House Bill 577, which is an act Next is House Bill 577, which is an act relating<00:32:06.400
- Next is House Bill 921, an act relating to alcoholic beverages, member from Cambridge.
- <00:42:44.560>
relating which is an act relating which is an act relating an<00:42:45.960> - Next is Senate Bill 202, which is an act Next is Senate Bill 202, which is an act relating<00:46
- So with that, Senate Bill 298 is an act relating to creating the Vermont Voting Rights Act.
Summary:
The House opened with routine proceedings, including a moment of silence and the Pledge of Allegiance, then referred three bills to money committees under House Rule 35A: S.197 to Ways and Means, and S.193 and S.278 to Appropriations. The chamber also read and celebrated HCR 304, honoring the display of Julian Scott’s Civil War painting, The Fourth Vermont Forming Under Fire, in the State House and recognizing the people who helped locate and acquire it for Vermont. HCR 303 was also read, extending best wishes for a speedy recovery to Rep. Ann Donahue; members then offered warm remarks welcoming her back to the chamber. Several members introduced guests in the gallery, and caucus announcements were made before the body moved to the calendar.
On transportation, the House took up H.944, the fiscal year 2027 transportation program. The House Transportation Committee reported major differences with the Senate version and, by straw poll, recommended a committee of conference. The House refused to concur in the Senate amendment, appointed conferees, and suspended rules to message its action to the Senate forthwith. The House then considered S.214, which would allow the NEK Choice School District to pay tuition for pre-K students to nearby New Hampshire public-school programs, with administration by Essex North Supervisory Union and possible waivers from state agencies. Education, Ways and Means, and Appropriations all recommended concurrence, citing limited fiscal impact and improved access for children in Essex County; the bill was read a third time and ordered to third reading after debate that included support for rural access and concerns about relying on out-of-state capacity.
The House also concurred in Senate amendments to H.171, adding “the role of victim advocates” to officer-involved shooting investigation protocols, and to H.577, the Vermont prescription drug discount card program, which added annual reporting requirements and a terminology fix. The House likewise concurred in Senate amendments to H.588, the annual Office of Professional Regulation bill, including changes on rescission authority, substance-use treatment alternatives, CPA language, pharmacy technician authority, fee placement, and background checks. It then concurred in Senate amendments to H.611, a DVHA housekeeping bill, including 340B protections, a one-year delay for the community-based doula certification program, and codification of current HIV-prevention coverage practice. H.921 was postponed for two legislative days. Finally, the House took up S.227 on immigration protocols in Vermont schools, with the member from Williston describing it as a school safety measure that limits collection and sharing of immigration-status information, provides trusted resources to families, and requires a judicial warrant before law enforcement enters non-public school areas for immigration matters.
VT
Transcript Highlights:
- So this uh to commit a criminal act.
- .<00:36:58.720>
Um act. - Um act.
- Next is Senate Bill 210, which is an act relating to access to autopsy reports.
- Next is Senate Bill 210, which is an act Next is Senate Bill 210, which is an act relating<00:39
Summary:
The House opened with a devotional and a series of lighthearted remarks, then welcomed Representative Kumulia Case Long of Milton, who had taken the oath of office earlier that morning. The chair announced Long’s seating in seat 114 and appointment to the Committee on Education. The chamber also received and first-read several bills: H. 953 on the Panton town charter amendment, H. 954 on the Stowe town charter amendment, S. 64 on optometrists’ scope of practice, and S. 278 on cannabis. The House also noted favorable committee reports on H. 952 (capital construction/bonding budget adjustment) and S. 218 (reducing chloride contamination in state waters), with referrals made under House Rule 35A.
The House adopted JRS. 47, a joint resolution setting weekend adjournment for April 3, 2026, and then read two concurrent resolutions that had already been adopted on the consent calendar: HCR 217 congratulating McNeel and Rei of Rutland on 70 years in business, and HCR 230 recognizing April 2026 as National Child Abuse Prevention Month and honoring Prevent Child Abuse Vermont for its 50th anniversary. Members offered remarks celebrating McNeel and Rei’s history and the work of Prevent Child Abuse Vermont, including testimony about the organization’s prevention and family-support efforts.
The House then took up H. 657, relating to services for unaccompanied homeless youth without parental consent. A Judiciary amendment, supported by Human Services on a 9-2 straw poll, revised immunity language so providers may rely in good faith on certification forms and clarified shelter-provider exceptions in existing law. The amendment was adopted, and the bill passed third reading. The House also passed H. 941, on municipal regulation of agriculture. Finally, the House considered S. 210 on access to autopsy reports; Human Services recommended an amendment shifting decision-making authority to the court, adding a factor on interference with criminal investigations, and allowing refiling if circumstances materially change. The committee reported the bill favorably 10-1, the House agreed to propose the amendment to the Senate, and third reading was ordered.
MA
Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session
Joint Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy Jun 21st, 2026 at 01:00 pm
Joint Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy
Transcript Highlights:
- I'm here today to testify in support of House 397, an act relative to cellular coverage.
- We support H. 3531 and S. 230, an act relative to natural gas workforce safety.
- Can you imagine what the statistics will look like in a decade from now if we don't act now?
- act protecting ratepayers from gas pipeline expansion.
- act protecting rate payers from gas pipeline expansion An H. 3169, an act protecting ratepayers from
Summary:
The committee heard testimony on a wide range of late-file energy bills, with much of the discussion focused on battery storage siting, gas system expansion, propane consumer protections, gas workforce safety, and a Taunton home-rule petition on water rates for manufactured housing communities. Representative Sweeney urged support for H. 4689 and H. 4690, which would impose a moratorium and setback requirements for lithium battery storage facilities, citing fire risk, proximity to homes, and environmental concerns. Several local officials and residents from Oakham, Tewksbury, and other communities described proposed battery projects near homes, schools, wetlands, and conservation land, while industry and clean-energy advocates argued the bills would effectively block storage development and conflict with state energy goals and existing fire-safety standards.
The committee also heard strong support for S. 2290/H. 3547, a bill to prevent gas expansion near environmental justice communities, from environmental justice advocates, municipal officials, and clean-energy groups. Testimony emphasized rising gas bills, the cost of new pipelines, methane and health impacts, and the need to avoid locking in long-term gas infrastructure costs. Witnesses also discussed related bills on gas workforce safety, gas shut-off valves, and gas meter replacement plans, with labor representatives supporting safety-focused measures and opposing changes they said would weaken inspections, while consumer and environmental advocates argued that some utility replacement practices are unnecessarily expensive and should be reined in to reduce ratepayer costs.
Other testimony included support for H. 3518 on propane gas ratepayer protections, with the witness arguing for clearer contract terms and website price disclosure, and support for S. 2652, which would authorize Taunton to create a separate water billing rate for manufactured housing communities because residents there are effectively paying higher water costs through rent due to a single master meter. No committee votes or final actions were taken during the hearing, and members mostly asked brief clarifying questions or made no comment after testimony.
VT
Transcript Highlights:
- Appearing on the calendar for notice, I move that S. 324, an act relating to legislative operations and
- The senator from Washington has moved that S. 325, an act relating to studying the creation of model
- for notice, I move that S327, an act for notice, I move that S327, an act relating<00:09:32.240>
- Dresser raised certain points and I do not think that he acted in an unethical manner.
- he acted in an unethical manner. he acted in an unethical manner.
MN
Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session
Committee on Judiciary and Public Safety - 01/27/25
Judiciary and Public Safety
Transcript Highlights:
- uniform law the uniform trust deting act uniform law the uniform trust deting act some<00:13:42.279
- act updated.
- act updated.
- life and to bring this partition act life and to bring this partition act updated<00:21:15.799><
- <00:26:35.120>
is he's uh I think the partition Act is he's uh I think the partition Act is
MA
Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session
Joint Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy Jun 21st, 2026 at 01:00 pm
Joint Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy
Transcript Highlights:
- I'm Natalie Treat, and I'm with the Alliance for Climate Transition, or ACT.
- ACT supports bill H. 3542 and S. 2282, its companion bill, by Reps.
- Owens and Fernandez, an act advancing the clean energy transition.
- Next, ACT urges the committee to report favorably on H. 3542.
- Vogel before me, in support of an act defining clean energy, S. 2237.
Summary:
The committee heard testimony on a wide range of energy bills, with much of the discussion focused on offshore wind, battery storage, solar, nuclear study proposals, and a bill to redefine clean energy. Several Barnstable-area legislators and witnesses raised concerns about offshore wind transmission infrastructure near neighborhoods, beaches, and drinking water supplies, and supported bills to create a special commission and increase local input and oversight. In contrast, environmental, consumer, labor, and clean energy groups strongly backed offshore wind expansion bills, arguing that offshore wind lowers long-term costs, improves winter reliability, reduces fossil fuel dependence, supports jobs and local supply chains, and should include wildlife protections, labor standards, and community benefits. Some witnesses and committee members noted that parts of the offshore wind legislation overlap with the Governor’s energy affordability bill, and asked for clarification on which provisions were new versus duplicative.
The committee also heard testimony on battery storage and solar legislation. Two student witnesses and several industry representatives supported a bill to study grid battery storage, saying storage can reduce outages, lower peak prices, and improve grid resilience during extreme weather. Witnesses from solar and storage companies supported a broader clean energy transition bill that would expand storage procurement, create a retail-style storage program for distributed batteries, set a 10-gigawatt solar target by 2035, and streamline siting and interconnection. Committee members pressed witnesses on whether these provisions were already included in the Governor’s affordability bill and asked for a section-by-section breakdown of what was new. One witness also urged allowing developers to bond interconnection payments to reduce financing costs.
Another major topic was a bill defining clean energy, especially whether existing pumped-storage hydropower should qualify for subsidies or be excluded. Supporters of the bill argued that existing pumped storage should not receive additional ratepayer subsidies because it is already built, can have environmental impacts on rivers and ecosystems, and could cost ratepayers hundreds of millions of dollars. Opponents said pumped storage is an important reliability resource and should remain eligible. The committee also heard testimony on nuclear-energy study bills: some witnesses supported creating a commission to examine nuclear power as a reliable, carbon-free option, while others opposed nuclear study bills and argued that nuclear is costly, unsafe, and inconsistent with the state’s clean energy goals. No votes were taken during the hearing.
KY
Kentucky 2025 Regular Session
House Standing Committee on Natural Resources & Energy (3-12-25)
Transcript Highlights:
- 04:51.840>
Water under the federal Safe Drinking Water under the federal Safe Drinking Water Act - and existing laws and cabinet Act and existing laws and cabinet regulations<00:04:55.600>
related - in line with the federal Clean Water Act.
- >
fact federal Clean Water Act and in fact federal Clean Water Act and in fact those<00:17:52.760 - <00:21:24.919>
removes Safe Drinking Water Act it also removes Safe Drinking Water Act it
Keywords:
Meeting Start 00:00
Attendance Roll Call 00:04
SB 89 Discussion 00:59
SB 89 Roll Call Vote 24:49, 958, all
Summary:
The committee met in a special called session, confirmed a quorum, and took up Senate Bill 89. The sponsor, Scott Maiden, said the bill was intended to address permitting issues affecting coal and other industries, and he described it as supported by a broad coalition of business, agriculture, and industry groups. He said the bill would align Kentucky’s definition of “waters of the Commonwealth” with federal definitions and would codify the existing definition and calculation method for long-term treatment bond requirements at mine sites. He also emphasized that the bill would not eliminate groundwater protections, drinking water protections, or prohibitions on hazardous substance dumping.
A committee amendment was discussed and adopted to add and clarify definitions, including navigable waters, sinkholes with open drains, certain springs, and wellhead protection areas. The sponsor said the amendment was intended to address concerns that the bill was too broad and noted that it was worked on with Louisville Water and other stakeholders. Testimony in opposition came from Rebecca Shelton of Appalachian Citizens Law Center, who argued the bill would leave private wells and groundwater vulnerable and cited groundwater contamination data. Nick Hart of Kentucky Waterways Alliance urged the committee to preserve the current definition and requested a statutory review and economic impact analysis. Audrey Ernsberger of Kentucky Resources Council said the bill would strip protections from most groundwater, ephemeral streams, karst aquifers, and many private wells, and warned of higher water-treatment costs and pollution risks.
Members asked questions about the meaning of “carcinogenic” and the difficulty of cleaning up contamination in private wells. During roll call, several members explained their votes, with supporters saying the amendment protected water while preserving needed flexibility for industry, and opponents saying they could not risk weakening water protections or harming private wells and agriculture. The committee voted to pass SB 89 as amended with a favorable recommendation to the Senate, and then moved to roll the committee amendment into a committee substitute.
MA
Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session
Joint Committee on the Judiciary Jun 21st, 2026 at 01:00 pm
Joint Committee on the Judiciary
Transcript Highlights:
- We've got Senator Cindy Cream online on S-1046, an act relative to adoptions. Thank you.
- I'm here today in support of Senate 1046, an act relative to adoptions.
- Kind of a tough act to follow, but I'll do my best.
- A very personal appeal, given that I'm probably the oldest act on the list.
- All right, we'll return now to testimony on S-1046, an act relative to adoptions.
Summary:
The Judiciary Committee held its inaugural hearing of the session, led by Chair Michael Day and co-chair Senator Lydia Edwards, and reviewed a large slate of bills and constitutional amendments. The chair laid out hearing procedures, including three-minute testimony limits, priority for in-person witnesses, and deadlines for reporting constitutional amendments and House bills. The committee heard testimony on 29 proposals, with many witnesses and advocates speaking in support of measures they said would clarify the law, improve access to justice, or address public safety and fairness concerns.
Several bills drew extensive testimony. Supporters of H.1686/S.1254 urged creation of a commission to study intentional misrepresentation of service animals, citing disruptive and dangerous encounters with fake service dogs and the need to protect legitimate service-dog teams. H.1649/S.1168 on court transcriber fees received strong support from transcribers and CPCS, who said rates have been frozen at $3 per page since 1988 and should be raised to $4.50, with an automatic CPI adjustment; they also described the work as time-consuming and essential to the justice system. H.1768/S.1037 on indigency was backed by CPCS, which said the bill would update eligibility rules, reduce unnecessary six-month reassessments, and eliminate the $150 counsel fee for indigent adults. H.1723/S.1193 to remove the charitable immunity cap was supported by legislators and attorneys who argued the current $20,000/$100,000 caps leave seriously injured people undercompensated and make Massachusetts an outlier.
The committee also heard testimony on S.1046 regarding adoptions, with multiple adoptive parents, attorneys, and agency representatives describing recent probate court interpretations that have disrupted out-of-state surrender and finalization practices. Witnesses said the bill would restore predictability and allow birth parents outside Massachusetts to use either their home-state law or Massachusetts law, while preserving ICPC safeguards. Senator Feingold testified on H.1748/S.1109, “Conrad’s Law,” to criminalize coercing someone into suicide, arguing Massachusetts should join most other states in creating a specific offense rather than relying on involuntary manslaughter charges. Representative Donahue supported H.66 to remove “so help me God” from the constitutional oath of office. No votes were taken during the hearing; the committee simply heard testimony and thanked witnesses, with chairs indicating they would continue reviewing the bills and written submissions.
MA
Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session
Joint Committee on Financial Services Jun 21st, 2026 at 10:00 am
Joint Committee on Financial Services
Transcript Highlights:
- That's H. 1282 and S. 684, an act relative to the Massachusetts UCC.
- In regard to H. 1079, it's an act to strengthen the state credit union charter.
- unions, and H. 1079 and S. 837, an act to strengthen the credit union state charter.
- I did want to also mention, since I'm out of time, the Foreclosure Prevention Act.
- This legislature has the power and the responsibility to act.
Summary:
The Committee on Financial Services heard testimony on several bills focused on consumer debt, mortgage regulation, credit unions, and foreclosure prevention. The Attorney General’s Office strongly supported the Debt Collection Fairness Act (S. 735/H. 1275), saying it would curb abusive debt collection, prevent stale claims, limit civil arrest warrants, modernize wage garnishment rules, and reduce judgment interest rates. Senator Eldridge and legal aid advocates echoed that support, while the Massachusetts Bankers Association and the Massachusetts Mortgage Bankers Association supported bills on credit union mission/competition, consumer privacy in mortgage applications, subprime loan definitions, UCC updates, and protections for vulnerable adults, but opposed foreclosure mediation proposals and several credit union expansion measures, arguing they would distort competition and add unnecessary burdens.
A large portion of the hearing focused on foreclosure prevention bills (S. 765/H. 1090), with testimony from homeowners, housing organizers, and legal advocates describing predatory lending, confusing servicing practices, health harms, and displacement caused by foreclosure. Supporters said a statewide pre-foreclosure mediation program would give borrowers and lenders a chance to reach alternatives such as loan modifications or repayment plans, and cited local experience in Lynn where mediation reportedly produced high rates of foreclosure alternatives. Opponents from the banking industry argued Massachusetts already has strong foreclosure protections and that a new mandatory process could delay resolution without added benefit, though they also noted a 2024 pilot should be evaluated first.
The committee also heard strong support for H. 1282/S. 684, which would update the Massachusetts Uniform Commercial Code. State Street and a bankruptcy attorney said the changes are needed to keep commercial law current with electronic transactions, tokenized assets, and blockchain technology, and to maintain competitiveness with other states. The hearing concluded after public testimony, with no bill votes taken during the session; the chair thanked speakers and the committee voted to adjourn.
CA
California 2025-2026 Regular Session
Assembly Floor Session Jan 26th, 2026
California House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- So this is just an act of fairness.
- Members, AB 1265 is the Historic Building Tax Relief Act. Mr.
- Speaker and members, AB 1265 is the Historic Building Tax Relief Act.
- Assembly Bill 1359 by Assembly Member Arons and others, an act relating to jury service.
- Assembly Bill 643 by Assembly Member Wilson, an act relating to climate change.
Summary:
The Assembly convened after a quorum call, offered a prayer and Pledge of Allegiance, and then spent much of the session on guest introductions recognizing visitors, community college delegations, students, caregivers, a retired Assembly staff member, and a championship high school football team. Members also observed an adjournment in memory for Alex Preddy, a VA nurse killed in Minnesota, and later for Kathy Wooten and Rowena Ramos. The chamber then moved through the daily file and third reading file, with several items passed, retained, or continued.
Among the bills taken up, AB 34 on renewable portfolio standard exemptions for publicly owned utilities passed 55-0; AB 35 to accelerate implementation of Proposition 4 climate resilience funds passed 62-0; AB 52 on food and agriculture equity passed 50-6; AB 72 creating an EV economic opportunity zone passed 58-0; AB 96 removing a diploma requirement for Medi-Cal peer support specialists passed 55-0; AB 230 extending Pierce’s disease control programs passed 64-0; AB 277 requiring background checks for behavioral health employees passed 59-0; AB 647 clarifying a county RV disposal pilot passed 54-0; AB 664 authorizing limited bachelor’s programs at Southwestern Community College passed 60-1; AB 673 creating a support grant for unaccompanied homeless youth passed 55-1; AB 710 on dynamic electricity pricing passed 54-0; AB 748 streamlining pre-approved housing plans passed 65-0; AB 767 expanding protections around sexually violent predator placements near schools and daycares passed 65-0; AB 883 protecting officials’ personal information from data brokers passed 66-0; AB 946 expanding 30x30 conservation efforts to urban areas passed 65-0; AB 1054 creating a deferred retirement option program for CHP and Cal Fire passed 61-1; AB 1070 on missing middle housing code simplification passed 66-0; AB 1159 strengthening student data privacy passed 54-4; AB 1204 revising the Local Control Funding Formula passed 54-1; AB 1265 extending the historic building tax credit passed 64-0; AB 1349 banning speculative ticketing passed 61-0; AB 1359 allowing seniors 80+ to opt out of jury service without a doctor’s note passed 67-1; AB 643 on organic waste procurement credits passed 48-4; AB 685 creating a small business resiliency fund passed 63-0; AB 714 tightening oversight of commercial driving programs passed 65-1; and AB 805 establishing a youth apprenticeship bridge program passed 66-0. Several other items were passed and retained or continued without debate.
Debate on AB 1054 drew the sharpest disagreement, with opponents warning about pension costs and supporters arguing it would help retain experienced CHP officers and firefighters. AB 767 also prompted strong comments about public safety and placement of sexually violent predators in rural communities. On AB 1349, supporters from both parties backed the anti-speculative ticketing bill as consumer protection, while AB 664 drew support from members emphasizing access to higher education in underserved regions. The Assembly then adjourned until January 29, 2026, after announcing upcoming session dates and recording a few vote changes from the dais.
ND
North Dakota 2025-2026 Regular Session
Senate Floor Session Apr 11th, 2025 at 12:30 pm
North Dakota Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- Madam President, I move that the President appoint a committee of three to act with a like committee
- A bill for an act to create and enact a new section to Chapter 54-60 of the North Dakota Century Code
- A bill for an act to create and enact a new section to Chapter 54-60 of the North Dakota Century Code
- Engrossed House Bill 1126 with Senate amendments, a bill for an act to create...
- A bill for an act to create and enact a new section to Chapter 15.1-21.
Summary:
The Senate opened with prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, and a quorum call showing 46 members present. It then took up multiple House messages and amendments, appointing conference committees on several measures, including SB 2007, SCR 4007, SB 2374, SB 233, and House bills 1029, 1218, and 1022. The chamber also considered a series of House bills on the sixth and 14th orders, often adopting committee amendments before final passage or, in some cases, rejecting the bill outright.
Among the major policy items, the Senate passed HB 1524 on regional planning council grants, HB 1143 increasing a food bank appropriation to $10 million, HB 1126 modernizing cosmetology licensing and inspections, HB 1542 making student applications for admission exempt records, HB 1613 regulating law enforcement use of robots, HB 1582 directing a study on false reports and accusations, HB 1214 revising school transportation funding, HB 1448 creating a study on advanced technologies, HB 1280 on drainage project voting rules, HB 1499 protecting records related to federal judges, and several Senate bills returned from the House, including SB 2221, SB 2117, SB 2198, SB 2120, and SB 2214. The Senate also adopted amendments to HB 1541 on septic systems before rejecting it on final passage.
Several high-profile bills failed after debate. HB 1566, dealing with kratom regulation, saw an amendment to convert it to a study fail on a 21-25 vote, after which the chamber laid the bill over for one legislative day rather than take final action. HB 1283, which would have eliminated cost-sharing for diagnostic and supplemental breast exams in the state employee plan, was defeated 22-24 after extensive debate over cost, precedent, and insurance impacts. HB 1527, requiring Holocaust education in statute, also failed 22-24, with supporters emphasizing the importance of the subject and opponents arguing curriculum belongs in standards rather than statute. The Senate adjourned after announcements, scheduling its next meeting for Monday, April 14, 2025.
US
US Federal 2025-2026 Regular Session
Hearings to examine the nomination of Russell Vought, of Virginia, to be Director of the Office of Management and Budget. Jan 22nd, 2025
Senate Budget
Transcript Highlights:
- and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.
- You will comply with the Impoundment Control Act.
- Vought, what are your views on the REINS Act?
- It's a bill called the America First Act.
- I'll speak later about the Poundman Act at the markup.
MN
Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session
House Floor Session 4/28/26 - Part 1
Minnesota House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- Hearing no objection, so ordered. an act relating to state government. an act relating to state government
- <00:10:17.920>
real <00:10:18.160>estate an act relating to real estate an act relating - <00:10:35.360>
Hicks an act relating to human rights. - Hicks an act relating to human rights.
- an act relating to public safety. an act relating to public safety.
Summary:
The House met, opened with silent reflection and the Pledge of Allegiance, and the clerk confirmed a quorum was present. The journal from the previous day was approved as corrected, standing committee reports and comparison report substitutions were adopted without objection, and several House and Senate files received second or first readings. House files 1082, 3230, 3532, 3732, 4196, and 4252 were read a second time, along with Senate File 4807, and House Files 5090 through 5098 were introduced and given first reading.
The chamber also received a Senate message announcing the appointment of a joint committee to escort Governor Tim Walz to the House chamber for the upcoming joint convention on April 28, 2026. The Senate transmitted four bills—SF 1714, SF 2814, SF 3210, and SF 2432—which were each paired with a House file on the general register and referred to the chief clerk for comparison without objection. The bills were described generally as relating to state government, real estate appraisers, human rights, and public safety.
A report from the Committee on Rules and Legislative Administration designated several bills for the calendar for Thursday, April 30, 2026, and imposed a pre-filing requirement for amendments on specified House and Senate files. Non-controversial motions were adopted without objection, and Representative Niska moved a recess to the call of the Speaker. The motion prevailed, and the House stood in recess.
MN
Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session
Minnesota House fraud prevention panel considers motion to issue subpoena to U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar May 5th, 2026
Minnesota House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- Attorney's Office, as I did when it was under Acting U.S. Attorney Mr.
- Attorney's Office, as I did when it was under Acting U.S. Attorney Mr.
- I noted that a number of Republicans in Congress voted for the Meals Act.
- <00:08:58.600>
She very proud of the Meals Act. She very proud of the Meals Act. - Congress voted for the Meals Act. Congress voted for the Meals Act.
Summary:
The committee debated whether to issue a subpoena to Representative Ilhan Omar for documents and communications related to the Feeding Our Future investigation and the federal U.S. v. Aimee Bock trial exhibits. The chair argued that Omar’s office had been named in trial exhibits, that prior requests for testimony and documents had gone unanswered, and that the committee needed the materials to understand the role of the Meals Act and related communications in creating conditions for fraud. Supporters said the request was part of a broader effort to examine Minnesota’s larger fraud problems and to obtain records they believed were relevant and public despite a court protective order; opponents questioned the timing, the committee’s need for the information, and the precedent of subpoenaing a sitting member of Congress, while also arguing federal authorities could pursue any wrongdoing themselves.
Members discussed whether the committee had first requested the materials in April 2026 or earlier, whether the documents could be obtained directly from the court or the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and how the information would be used given that the committee was nearing the end of its work. The chair said staff had tried PACER and the federal court, but that the exhibits themselves were under a protective order binding the parties, not the legislature or Omar. Critics said the subpoena was unnecessary and politically motivated; supporters said it was needed for transparency and accountability in the Feeding Our Future probe and related fraud patterns.
A roll call was taken on the motion to issue the subpoena. The committee voted 5-3 in favor, but the chair noted that Minnesota law required a two-thirds vote, so the motion failed and the subpoena was not issued. The chair said she would continue trying to contact Representative Omar’s office and hoped for a response.
NY
New York 2025-2026 Regular Session
New York State Senate Session - 03/19/2026
New York Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- Currently serving as an act representative for the battalion.
- >> CALENDAR 441, SENATE PRINT 2437A SENATOR KRUEGER, AN ACT TO AMEND THE ELECTION LAW.
- >> SECTION 2, THIS ACT SHALL TAKE EFFECT ON THE 90TH DAY AFTER IT SHALL BECOME A LAW.
- >> CALENDAR 457, SENATE PRINT 919A SENATOR MAY, AN ACT TO AMEND THE EXECUTIVE LAW.
- You could repeal the All Electric Buildings Act.
Summary:
The Senate opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and an invocation by Major Brittany Wooten, then took up Senate Resolution No. 1749 designating March 19, 2026, as West Point Day in New York State. Majority Leader Stewart-Cousins, Senator Skoufis, Minority Leader Ortt, and several other senators spoke in support of West Point, its cadets, and the academy’s history and role in national service. Colonel Daniel R. Stuewe, commander of U.S. Army Garrison West Point, also addressed the chamber, emphasizing the long-standing partnership between West Point and New York and the academy’s mission to develop leaders of character. The resolution was adopted, and the West Point Day observance included recognition of cadets and academy staff.
The Senate then moved through a calendar of bills, passing measures including amendments to the Public Health Law, Election Law, Executive Law, Penal Law, Elder Law, Real Property Tax Law, General Municipal Law, and Public Authorities Law. Several bills drew brief explanations of vote or debate. Senator Mayer spoke in support of a bill establishing Fred Korematsu Day, framing it as a reminder of the injustice of Japanese American internment and the need to defend civil rights. Senator Ryan supported a bill streamlining the senior citizen property tax exemption process, calling it a way to reduce burdens on older residents. Senator Helming opposed a local government planning mandate as an unfunded mandate, while Senators Walczyk and Martins criticized a housing-related reporting bill as burdensome and ineffective.
The most debated item was Calendar 457, a housing-data and reporting bill sponsored by Senator May. Supporters argued it would improve transparency and help the state understand zoning and housing capacity, while opponents said it imposed new reporting burdens on municipalities and could penalize poorer communities by threatening CDBG funding. After debate, the bill was restored to the non-controversial calendar and ultimately passed by a vote of 37-23. The Senate then adjourned until the next legislative day.
KY
Kentucky 2026 Regular Session
Senate Legislative Session Day 19 (2-3-26)
Kentucky Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- Senate Bill 48 is an act relating to mandatory re-entry supervision.
- Senate Bill 161, an act relating to employment. Senator Clemens.
- Senate Bill 157, an act Rocky Adams.
- Senate Bill 158, an act relating Howell.
- 161, an act relating to employment. 161, an act relating to employment.
Summary:
The Senate convened with an invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance, confirmed a quorum, and approved the journal from Monday, February 2, 2026. The chamber received House messages that the House had passed HB 143, 164, 314, and 398 and requested concurrence. The Agriculture Committee reported SB 5 and SB 73 favorably, and those bills were advanced to the calendar. The Senate also took up several new measures, including SB 155 on animal health emergencies, SJR 75 on utility affordability and essential services, and SR 76 honoring Frank Ryard.
The main floor action centered on SB 48, relating to mandatory re-entry supervision. The bill was explained as tightening eligibility by excluding inmates with two or more violent-felony convictions or those recommitted for probation, shock probation, parole, or conditional discharge violations, and requiring an annual Department of Corrections report to the judiciary committees. After a roll call, SB 48 passed 38-0. The Senate then considered SB 102 on Kentucky State Police staffing; after an amendment was withdrawn, the bill was explained as extending the Trooper R return-to-service eligibility window from the original retirement date to the last day worked, without changing benefits or retirement obligations. SB 102 also passed 38-0.
During announcements and communications, senators discussed committee meetings, legislative receptions, and co-sponsorship requests. A resolution honoring the 22nd Black History Celebration was adopted, and a senator spoke at length about the event and the recognition of Moneta Sleet Jr. Another senator used the floor to urge stronger enforcement and transparency around child marriage laws, citing continued noncompliance and the need to protect minors. Later, the clerk reported additional new bills, including SB 156 on child marriage, SB 157 on mortgage loan income limits, SB 158 on vehicle financial protection products, SB 159 on missing and unidentified persons, SB 160 on child care centers, SB 161 on employment, and SR 77 honoring Norma June Evans. The Senate then adjourned until 2 p.m. on Wednesday, February 4, 2026.
HI
Hawaii 2025 Regular Session
AGR Public Hearing - Fri Jan 31, 2025 @ 10:00 AM HST
Agriculture & Food Systems
Transcript Highlights:
- So our understanding is that we are carrying out the law of Act 90 and the purpose of Act 90 as it is
- So our understanding is that we are carrying out the law of Act 90 and the purpose of Act 90 as it is
- So our understanding is that we are carrying out the law of Act 90 and the purpose of Act 90 as it is
- So our understanding is that we are carrying out the law of Act 90 and the purpose of Act 90 as it is
- Yes, Vice Chair Kush for DLNR. of act 90 and the purpose of act 90 as of act 90 and the purpose of act