Video & Transcript Research : 'Interstate 12'
Page 160 of 500
MN
Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session
House Floor Session 5/14/26 - Part 1
Minnesota House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- 12:39.280>
which <00:12:39.560>both <00:12:40.000>the <00:12:40.160>nation <00:12:41.280>state <00:12:41.839>were <00:12:42.040>built. - >> Be<00:12:46.960>
it <00:12:47.120>resolved <00:12:47.600>by <00:12:47.720 - <00:12:54.600>
the <00:12:54.720>people <00:12:54.960>of <00:12:55.040>the - United States<00:12:56.120>
on <00:12:56.280>the <00:12:56.360>occasion <00:12:56.880 - United States<00:12:56.120>
Summary:
The House convened with prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, and a roll call establishing a quorum. The journal of the previous day was approved as corrected. The chamber then took up second reading of Senate File 3891 and first reading of House Files 5144 through 5149, with no debate or votes on those measures recorded in the transcript.
Representative Lawrence presented a House resolution commemorating the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, highlighting the Declaration of Independence, federalism, and Minnesota’s role in the nation’s history. The resolution encouraged citizens, schools, civic groups, and businesses to participate in commemorative activities and reaffirm commitment to liberty, equality, self-government, and federalism.
During announcements, Representative Long raised a parliamentary inquiry about the status of Senate File 4067, the comprehensive gun violence prevention package, noting it had been passed by the Senate 10 days earlier. The Speaker said the bill was being reviewed. Long followed up by asking whether a vote would be allowed before the end of session, and the Speaker again replied that the bill was being reviewed. The House then announced upcoming caucus and Rules meetings, and Representative Niska moved a recess to the call of the Speaker, which was adopted by voice vote.
MN
Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session
Human services finance bill, HF3, passes MN House during 2025 special session 6/9/25
Minnesota House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- /c><00:12:02.880>
who <00:12:03.040>have <00:12:03.200>the <00:12:03.600>real - not only<00:12:11.600>
now <00:12:11.920>but <00:12:12.240>also <00:12:12.480>- > in<00:12:12.639>
the <00:12:12.880>future <00:12:13.440>for <00:12:13.680><- <00:12:15.519>
because <00:12:15.839>we <00:12:16.000>focused <00:12:16.320><- on those things.<00:12:16.880>
We <00:12:17.120>didn't <00:12:17.200>have <00:12 - > in<00:12:12.639>
MN
Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session
Press Conference: DFL and Republican Media Availability - 02/03/25
Transcript Highlights:
- :22.839>
we <00:12:22.959>see <00:12:23.279>the <00:12:23.480>house <00:12 - really<00:12:28.040>
going <00:12:28.160>to <00:12:28.320>come <00:12:28.480 - to come down to the<00:12:28.839>
end <00:12:29.000>of <00:12:29.360>year <00:12 - more<00:12:36.920>
difficult <00:12:37.240>as <00:12:37.399>they <00:12:37.560>< - 12:42.199>
May <00:12:42.600>so <00:12:43.240>uh <00:12:43.399>it <00:12:43.560
KY
Kentucky 2025 Regular Session
Senate Standing Committee on State & Local Government (3-12-25)
Transcript Highlights:
- >
sub <00:12:01.360>and <00:12:01.839>as <00:12:01.959>we <00:12:02.120>- /c><00:12:07.399>
to <00:12:07.600>complete <00:12:08.040>their <00:12:08.320>- <00:12:16.519>
the <00:12:16.720>KLC <00:12:17.240>and <00:12:17.399>the< - auditors office<00:12:18.519>
for <00:12:18.920>their <00:12:19.120>work <00:12:- :12:26.120>
part <00:12:26.320>of <00:12:26.440>it <00:12:26.639>if <00:12 - /c><00:12:07.399>
Keywords:
Meeting Start: 00:01
Attendance Roll Call: 00:04
HB 684 (Rep. Decker): 00:49
HB 71 (Rep. Duvall): 06:55
HB 290 (Rep. Wilson): 09:20
HB 555 (Rep. Freeland): 15:21
HB 160 (Rep. Witten): 16:30
HB 455 (Rep. Flannery): 22:04
Adjournment: 27:21, 958, all
Summary:
The Senate Standing Committee on State and Local Government considered several bills. House Bill 684, an elections “continuous improvement” measure, drew the most discussion. Rep. Jennifer Decker said it was based on issues identified during the 2024 election cycle and included changes to absentee voting for primary caregivers and other election administration updates. Senators focused on a committee substitute removing credit and debit cards as a second form of ID for provisional ballots; Decker said local election workers had reported people trying to use cards with no photo ID, and she did not want financial institutions determining voter eligibility. The bill also clarified that certain ballots could be issued by hand or by mail. It passed 9-1, with some members voting no or passing because they wanted more time to consider the ID change.
House Bill 71, requested by the Kentucky Public Pension Authority, would reorganize KPPA by creating an Office of Financial Management and moving the CFO into an executive director-level role. Testimony said the change was structural only, with no impact on system funding and minimal short-term costs. It passed unanimously, 11-0. House Bill 290, by Rep. Nick Wilson, would allow county law libraries to use funds for online legal research resources, computers, and internet-related equipment. Supporters said libraries had money but were limited to buying books; the bill passed unanimously, with the chair noting it would let libraries use existing funds more effectively.
House Bill 555, as amended by committee substitute, addressed audit and reporting requirements for small cities. Supporters from the Kentucky League of Cities and the Auditor’s Office said many small cities struggle to find certified CPAs, and the bill would raise the threshold for less frequent audits, expand the exemption threshold, allow the Auditor’s Office to contract to perform audits, and clarify that state-fund withholding for noncompliance would not apply to contractual or utility payments. It passed 10-1, and the title amendment was adopted. House Bill 160, with a committee substitute, would regulate manufactured housing and local zoning by establishing standards that supporters said were needed to prevent discrimination against modern manufactured homes. Several senators expressed concern about state interference in local zoning, while others supported the bill as a housing access measure; it passed 10-1. Finally, House Bill 455 would create a Unit of Election Investigations and Security in the Attorney General’s Office to handle election-crime allegation review, the voter fraud hotline, prosecutorial referrals, and legislative oversight. Supporters said it codified existing practices and would not require new funding, but opponents objected to placing the hotline in a partisan office. The bill passed 9-1 with one pass, and the committee adjourned after reporting favorable action on the bills.
HI
Transcript Highlights:
- Right.<00:12:03.080>
And <00:12:03.280>so <00:12:03.520>we <00:12:03.760>can< - So,<00:12:14.240>
um <00:12:14.760>I <00:12:14.880>guess <00:12:15.320>if - c> to<00:12:22.640>
do <00:12:22.800>away <00:12:23.080>with <00:12:23.400>- to<00:12:25.440>
create <00:12:25.800>a <00:12:25.839>position <00:12:26.400- you're going<00:12:29.480>
to <00:12:29.640>make <00:12:29.880>it <00:12:30.000> - to<00:12:25.440>
Bills:
HCR122
Keywords:
Olelo Hawaii, micro-credentials, Hawaiian language, Niihau dialect, language revitalization, 912, senate, all
Summary:
The joint Senate Committee on Education and Committee on Hawaiian Affairs first took up HCR 122, which requests the University of Hawaii to allow an ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi E Pathway under the Niʻihau dialect. Testimony was generally supportive, and the chair noted agreement with the House author to mirror amendments already made in the Senate version, including technical, non-substantive changes and a micro-credential reference. Both committees voted to pass HCR 122 with amendments.
The committee then heard HCR 181, affirming the legislative intent of HRS 302A-1116 regarding the Department of Education’s authority to create temporary positions. DOE Superintendent Keith Hayashi testified that the department follows statutory requirements and consults with the Attorney General, while several members expressed concern that the department’s interpretation could allow repeated annual renewals and undermine the budget process. Members discussed the need to make the bill more explicit that temporary positions may not exceed one year. The committee ultimately adopted the proposed SD1 and passed HCR 181 with amendments.
The committee also considered HCR 42 on recognizing cheerleading as a title sport, HCR 53 on a UH associate degree completion audit, HCR 110 on refining campus roles within the UH system, HCR 111 on clarifying UH system and campus responsibilities, and HCR 118 HD1 on strengthening menstrual health education and adopting a comprehensive menstrual cycle curriculum. HCR 42 and HCR 53 were passed with technical/non-substantive amendments, HCR 110 and HCR 111 were passed unamended, and HCR 118 HD1 was passed with amendments reflecting the Senate version. Testimony on HCR 118 strongly supported standardized menstrual health education, with speakers emphasizing student demand and existing school infrastructure.
NH
New Hampshire 2025 Regular Session
House Education Funding (01/14/2025)
Transcript Highlights:
- call<00:12:02.600>
me <00:12:03.120>Terry <00:12:04.120>um <00:12:04.560> - >
I <00:12:05.560>was <00:12:05.680>on <00:12:05.920>ways <00:12:06.160>- :09.920>
was <00:12:10.120>part <00:12:10.279>of <00:12:10.440>the <00:12:- :12:15.480>
and <00:12:15.639>I'm <00:12:15.800>Rick <00:12:16.040>lad <00- :06.800>
10 <01:12:07.239>11 <01:12:07.719>12 <01:12:08.000>in <01:12:08.120 - :09.920>
Summary:
The meeting was the first session of a newly created House Education Funding Committee, which also handles career technical education and higher education legislation. The chair explained that the committee was split off from the larger education committee because of the high volume of bills in the prior biennium, and said its focus would be on education funding policy and related fiscal issues. He noted that the committee had already reviewed major topics with the Department of Education, including the foundation formula, building aid, career technical education, special education aid, catastrophic aid, and higher education funding, and that chancellors from the university and community college systems were scheduled to appear later that morning.
The bulk of the meeting was an orientation on committee procedures and decorum. The chair reviewed attendance and replacement rules, hearing procedures, time limits for testimony, and how the committee would handle crowded hearings, early bills, and fiscal notes. He emphasized that hearings are not debates, that sponsors and co-sponsors may present but should not use their position to dominate questioning, and that the chair controls whether additional technical questions are asked of witnesses. He also stressed neutrality, saying members should not display buttons or placards or engage in running debates with testifiers, and that the committee should treat all testimony respectfully regardless of party or viewpoint.
Additional housekeeping guidance covered security procedures, use of cell phones and computers during hearings, breaks and hydration in the dry hearing rooms, and courtesy toward the clerk and other staff. The chair also asked members to notify leadership in advance of absences and explained that some bills may require larger rooms or overflow arrangements. No votes were taken and no bills were acted on during this portion of the meeting.
MN
Transcript Highlights:
- :05.639>
I <00:12:05.720>have <00:12:05.880>talked <00:12:06.120>to <00:12 - c><00:12:08.360>
Senator <00:12:08.720>Port <00:12:08.959>moves <00:12:09.160> - from<00:12:12.040>
the <00:12:12.200>committee <00:12:12.680>on <00:12:13.199>- no the motion prevails<00:12:25.920>
we <00:12:26.160>now <00:12:26.399>go <00:12- <00:12:31.320>
Mr <00:12:31.639>President <00:12:32.240>I <00:12:32.440>move - no the motion prevails<00:12:25.920>
WY
Wyoming 2026 Regular Session
Senate Floor Session-Day 17, March 2, 2026-AM
Wyoming Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- 08.800>
the <00:12:08.920>vote, <00:12:09.320>and <00:12:09.440>the <00:12 - This<00:12:24.160>
weekend, <00:12:24.520>a <00:12:24.560>group <00:12:24.800> - who<00:12:26.160>
do <00:12:26.240>not <00:12:26.480>live <00:12:26.640>in - :12:49.000>
is <00:12:49.120>part <00:12:49.360>of <00:12:49.440>a <00:12:- I<00:12:52.200>
will <00:12:52.360>be <00:12:52.480>a <00:12:52.520>no. - :12:49.000>
MN
Minnesota 2025 1st Special Session
House Republican Press Conference 1/29/25
Transcript Highlights:
- be<00:12:22.800>
able <00:12:22.959>to <00:12:23.079>look <00:12:23.360>that - <00:12:23.560>
up <00:12:24.279>and <00:12:24.600>and <00:12:24.839>why <00:12:26.880>- if the<00:12:26.040>
house <00:12:26.240>is <00:12:26.440>tied <00:12:26.800>- do
you <00:12:26.959>think <00:12:27.079>you <00:12:27.160> - if the<00:12:26.040>
- >
we <00:12:33.440>do <00:12:33.680>go <00:12:33.880>back <00:12:34.040>
Summary:
House Public Safety Chair Paul Nney and several colleagues held a press-style discussion promoting a Republican public safety package, described as House File 7 and a set of 13 proposals. The members said the plan is aimed at helping law enforcement, keeping violent offenders off the streets, and increasing accountability in the criminal justice system. Specific proposals mentioned included a 10-year mandatory minimum for first-degree sex trafficking, requiring sex-offense registration even when a court imposes a stayed sentence, new offenses for freeway blocking, reckless fleeing, and conspiring to damage critical infrastructure, and making assault on a peace officer a felony rather than a gross misdemeanor.
The group also emphasized transparency measures, including searchable public websites for charging decisions by judges and prosecutors, disclosure of who pays bail for offenders, and legislative approval for sentencing changes proposed by the Sentencing Guidelines Commission. They said the package was previously introduced but not heard by House DFL leadership, and that they plan to resubmit it. They also said they had met with Senate partners and a County Attorneys Association representative, and argued the information sought is already collected and should simply be made publicly searchable.
In response to questions, the chair said the package does not directly address staffing, though members discussed broader law enforcement staffing shortages and training needs. He said academy applications have improved somewhat but will not fully offset retirements, and noted concerns about budget cuts to training funding. On costs, he said a fiscal note had been requested and estimated a separate searchable database could cost about $500,000 to build and maintain. The members also discussed public safety funding, Capitol security, and assaults on officers, saying they want protections expanded to corrections and EMS personnel as well.
AL
Alabama 2026 Regular Session
Alabama Senate State Governmental Affairs Committee Jan 21st, 2026
State Governmental Affairs
Transcript Highlights:
- 12:00.399>
to <00:12:00.480>add <00:12:00.640>to <00:12:00.800>their they - 00:12:03.839>
a <00:12:04.000>number <00:12:04.079>of <00:12:04.240>things - >
to <00:12:05.360>be <00:12:05.440>able <00:12:05.519>to <00:12:05.680>- 00:12:24.720>
we <00:12:24.880>had <00:12:25.120>calculated <00:12:25.600>we< - <00:12:27.200>
uh <00:12:27.279>the <00:12:27.600>deficit <00:12:28.240>which - >
Bills:
SB7, SB22, SB39, SB40, SB45, SB46, SB86, SB95, SB107, SB7, SB22, SB39, SB40, SB45, SB46, SB86, SB95, SB107
Keywords:
voting rights, absentee ballot, protected classes, Alabama Voting Rights Act, felony conviction, election integrity, preclearance, Alabama Jobs Act, incentives, job creation, economic development, recapture provisions, capital investment, employment, board governance, occupational licensing, Sunset Law, public accountability, training requirements, SB40
MN
Transcript Highlights:
- <00:12:08.160>
St <00:12:08.480>Paul <00:12:09.200>in <00:12:09.320>St <00:12:15.519>- ><00:12:09.600>
Paul <00:12:09.800>at <00:12:09.880>Kom <00:12:10.240>Park <00:12:11.200>St <00:12:11.480>Paul <00:12:11.720>Central <00:12:12.040>of <00:12:15.600>the <00:12:15.760>KO <00:12:16.279>Park - 12:19.240>
and <00:12:19.360>members <00:12:19.800>I <00:12:20.040>I <00:12 - ><00:12:09.600>
Summary:
The House opened with a prayer, pledge, and roll call, then approved the prior day’s journal and confirmed a quorum. The main business was organizing the chamber for the 2025–26 session, beginning with the election of Pat Murphy as chief clerk. Members from both parties praised Murphy’s long service, parliamentary knowledge, work on remote voting during COVID, and commitment to youth programs and the integrity of the House. After nominations closed, Murphy was elected by a 67-0 vote and took the oath of office.
The House then adopted a resolution allowing the remaining front-desk officers and assistant sergeant at arms to be elected on a single roll call unless there was more than one nominee for an office. Representative Niska nominated Stephanie Miller, Kathy Carlson, Erica Brinson, Andrew Olen, and Carl Hamry, and the slate was approved by voice vote. The House also elected Lori Hadap as chief sergeant at arms by a 67-0 vote after nominations and supportive remarks about her law-enforcement background, security work, and responsiveness to members; she then took the oath of office.
After the chamber was organized, the House adopted resolutions directing the chief clerk to notify the Senate that the House was duly organized and appointing a four-member committee to notify the governor. The appointed committee consisted of Representatives Paul Anderson, John Koznick, Ben Bakeberg, and Max Rymer, who reported back that the governor had been notified. Members also observed a moment of silence honoring former Representative Mary Murphy for her long service. The House then set its next meeting for 3:30 p.m. on Thursday, January 16, 2025, and adjourned.
MS
Transcript Highlights:
- c> uh<00:12:06.160>
change <00:12:06.480>to <00:12:06.639>the <00:12:06.800>< - This is<00:12:07.920>
a <00:12:08.160>PERS <00:12:08.639>board <00:12:09.360> - We've brought<00:12:11.519>
this <00:12:11.760>bill <00:12:12.000>forward <00:12: - <00:12:14.240>
Uh <00:12:14.639>there <00:12:14.880>was <00:12:15.519>in< - <00:12:25.680>
Uh <00:12:26.000>Senator <00:12:26.399>Blunt <00:12:26.800>
Summary:
The committee took up a series of economic development, tax, retirement, alcohol, and property tax bills, with several members explaining that some measures were being extended through repealers or prepared as omnibus vehicles for later floor amendments. Early in the meeting, members discussed a bill extending the Healthcare Industry Zone Act repealer to 2028, noting MDA had requested additional language for a floor amendment and citing roughly $715 million in expected new investment and more than 3,000 jobs since 2012. The committee also passed SB 2832, extending the Mississippi Shoreline Tax Credit program to 2029 with an $8 million annual cap, and SB 2849, extending the SMART business research program repealer to 2028. SB 2843, changing eligible expenses for MDA site development and utility infrastructure readiness, SB 2847, rounding state and local cash charges to the nearest nickel, and SB 2865, a gaming-related tax credit for non-gaming capital projects at casino properties, were also explained and passed without opposition.
The committee then considered SB 2882, which prohibits counties from requiring homestead exemption applicants to provide closing statements or disclosures, citing privacy concerns; it was passed. SB 2912, a PERS-requested bill allowing Roth contributions in the state deferred compensation plan and removing an earlier qualified domestic order provision, also passed. The committee next took up SB 2834 and SB 2838 as omnibus vehicles: SB 2834 was described as the Senate omnibus tag bill, and SB 2838 as the qualified resort status bill, which included an addition for a community college campus and golf course in western Mississippi. Both bills received reverse repealers and were reported out.
A lengthy discussion centered on SB 2915, which makes technical changes to Mississippi’s native wine laws, removes a repealer, expands tasting room options, and addresses ABC pickup and delivery timing. Senator McMahon offered an amendment to strike the pickup language after consulting with the Commissioner of Revenue, saying the current warehouse setup did not support the option yet; the amendment passed. Senator Sparks raised concerns about ABC delivery delays, the impact on small retailers, and whether the bill could raise commerce clause issues by favoring in-state wineries, but the author said the language conforms to existing distillery provisions. After no further questions, the committee passed the committee substitute and then rose and reported, with the chair noting another meeting would likely be held the following week.
MD
Transcript Highlights:
- <00:12:13.200>
President, <00:12:13.760>I'd <00:12:14.000>like <00:12:14.240> - I<00:12:16.320>
could <00:12:16.560>mention <00:12:16.800>the <00:12:17.040> - , Chester<00:12:29.760>
Town, <00:12:30.000>Maryland, <00:12:30.480>March <00:12: - We<00:12:36.000>
honor <00:12:36.399>petty <00:12:37.360>officer <00:12:37.760>- class Dakota<00:12:39.200>
Brown <00:12:39.519>Cullison <00:12:40.480>who <00:12 - class Dakota<00:12:39.200>
Summary:
The Maryland Senate convened on February 23, 2026, with an invocation by Reverend David Drake of the Church of Resurrection in Timonium, introduced by the senator from District 11. The chamber also recognized Denise Henderson Hector for 50 years as a licensed mortician and director at Recent Sons Mortuary in Annapolis, honoring her as a trailblazer and community leader during Black History Month. The Senate then welcomed several student pages, a guest from District 25, and Dr. Sarah Merritt, the doctor of the day.
The Senate devoted a lengthy portion of the session to honoring fallen service members. Members presented tributes to Staff Sergeant Jared Allen Fenry, Specialist Jacob Mullen, Petty Officer First Class Dakota Brown Cullison, and Private First Class Devon Moore, describing their military service, community involvement, and family lives. The chamber then observed taps and a moment of silence, and members noted that the families present were deeply appreciated. The remarks were journalized for the record.
After the memorial presentations, the Senate moved to routine business. It considered the introduction of Senate Bill 984 on correctional services and private immigration detention facilities, referred to the Rules Committee, and a bond initiative for Elton Flood Mitigation Management, referred to the Capital Budget Subcommittee. House Bill 146 on on-site wastewater systems, inspection and pumping requirements, and implementation dates was also read and referred to the appropriate standing committee. The Senate left the third reading calendar for the next day, announced caucus meetings for both parties on February 24, and adjourned until Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.
MN
Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session
Informational interview with Rep. Ben Bakeberg (R-Jordan) Jan 6th, 2026
Minnesota House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- >
I, <00:12:22.800>you <00:12:22.959>know, <00:12:23.040>I <00:12:23.200>< - It's a fantastic<00:12:33.440>
place <00:12:33.600>to <00:12:33.839>watch <00:12: - <00:12:37.920>
I <00:12:38.079>had <00:12:38.240>to <00:12:38.320>ask - 00:12:39.200>
go, <00:12:39.279>but <00:12:39.760>uh <00:12:40.000>yeah, < - , so I'm<00:12:41.040>
probably <00:12:41.279>be <00:12:41.440>out <00:12:41.600>
Summary:
The interview focused on Minnesota K-12 education, with the representative describing schools and educators as doing strong day-to-day work but saying policymakers need to address major problems such as literacy, math performance, and chronic absenteeism. He argued for more local control, fewer mandates, and flexible funding so districts can meet local needs, while also saying the READ Act and science-of-reading implementation should be carried out with fidelity to improve reading outcomes.
A substantial portion of the discussion centered on chronic absenteeism and truancy. The representative said he has worked in a bipartisan way with Rep. Keeler on the issue, including home visits and district reporting efforts, but argued schools cannot solve every social problem alone and need families and other partners to help get students to class. He also criticized the Department of Education for not prioritizing a simple reporting mechanism related to the 15-day drop rule for students who disappear from enrollment.
School safety was another major topic, especially after the Annunciation Catholic School shooting in Minneapolis. He said students should be safe regardless of whether they attend public or nonpublic schools and supported giving nonpublic schools access to safety funding. He said he and Sen. Pratt are working on flexible school-safety funding ideas and mentioned the Shield Act and multi-layered safety approaches as models. He also revisited universal school meals, saying the program has constrained future budget options and that a prior proposal would have redirected some of those dollars into flexible supplemental aid for districts.
The interview ended with brief discussion of other constituent concerns, including age verification, cell phone use, and a youth skills training program that he said should allow students to gain office-based experience. No votes were taken; the representative mainly outlined policy priorities and frustrations with agency implementation and legislative priorities.
AL
Alabama 2026 Regular Session
Alabama House State Government Committee Mar 4th, 2026
State Government
Transcript Highlights:
- >
was <00:12:04.120>going <00:12:04.240>to <00:12:04.320>be <00:12:04.440> - just<00:12:10.320>
to <00:12:10.400>go <00:12:10.560>ahead <00:12:10.960> - 12:18.800>
and <00:12:18.960>it <00:12:19.080>made <00:12:19.280>it <00:12 - <00:12:21.440>
so, <00:12:21.560>that's <00:12:21.839>what <00:12:22.200> - <00:12:28.960>
so, <00:12:29.120>it's <00:12:29.280>not <00:12:29.640>the
Keywords:
SB271, Alabama, municipalities, city fees, town fees, franchise fees, utility franchise, natural gas, manufactured gas, gas utility, public streets, public places, right-of-way, municipal consent, gross receipts tax, license tax, privilege tax, Public Service Commission, PSC, utility regulation
AL
Alabama 2026 Regular Session
Alabama House Ports, Waterways, and Intermodal Transit Committee Feb 18th, 2026
Ports, Waterways & Intermodal Transit
Transcript Highlights:
- >> So<00:12:05.200>
those <00:12:05.440>that <00:12:05.760>other <00:12:06.240 - Sponsor,<00:12:29.839>
I <00:12:29.920>mean, <00:12:30.800>uh, <00:12:30.959> - Before<00:12:34.079>
we <00:12:34.240>leave, <00:12:35.120>I <00:12:35.279>have - /c><00:12:37.839>
is <00:12:38.079>right <00:12:38.240>in <00:12:38.399>the - Happy<00:12:58.000>
birthday <00:12:59.040>to <00:12:59.519>you. - Happy<00:12:58.000>
HI
Hawaii 2026 Regular Session
EEP Public Hearing - Fri Apr 17, 2026 @ 10:05 AM HST
Energy & Environmental Protection
Transcript Highlights:
- <00:12:01.560>
Um, <00:12:01.880>Isaac <00:12:02.520>Moriwake <00:12:03.160>< - 12:10.800>
in <00:12:11.080>our <00:12:11.280>written <00:12:11.560>testimony - Is<00:12:36.720>
there <00:12:36.800>anyone <00:12:37.120>else <00:12:37.360> - Seeing<00:12:40.120>
none, <00:12:40.480>members, <00:12:41.200>any <00:12:41.440 - Seeing<00:12:46.160>
none, <00:12:46.680>are <00:12:46.800>we <00:12:47.000>
Keywords:
dust monitoring, public health, environmental quality, Waimanalo Gulch, air quality, particulate matter, community engagement, health risks, pollution mitigation, mattress stewardship, environmental protection, recycling, producer responsibility, solid waste management, environment, pollution, tourism, disposable bodyboards, polystyrene, marine ecosystems
Summary:
The Committee on Energy and Environmental Protection held its final hearing of the session on April 17, 2026, and took up a series of Senate concurrent resolutions focused on environmental protection, waste reduction, and energy policy. Measures discussed included SCR 142 on dust monitoring near Waimanalo Gulch, SCR 39 on a mattress stewardship program, SCR 40 on banning disposable bodyboards, SCR 83 on a lithium-ion battery disposal facility, SCR 168 on a demolition waste reduction working group, SCR 96 on reporting on the Hawaii Electric Reliability Administrator, SCR 166 on PUC considerations for a generational energy commitment, and SCR 172 on a comprehensive analysis to reduce costs and financial risk while meeting state goals.
Testimony was generally supportive of the environmental and waste-management measures. The Department of Health supported SCR 39 and provided comments on SCR 142; Climate Protectors Hawaii supported SCR 39, SCR 83, SCR 168, and SCR 172; the Office of Planning and Sustainable Development and Hawaii Reef and Ocean's Coalition submitted comments or support on SCR 168; and the Public Utilities Commission provided comments on SCR 96 and SCR 166. On SCR 166, Greenpeace Hawaii testified in opposition to LNG, arguing it would worsen pollution and climate impacts, while Earthjustice supported the intent but suggested amendments. Earthjustice also supported SCR 172 and offered friendly amendments to improve the study language.
In decision-making, the chair recommended deferral of SCR 142 because an existing regulatory framework already addresses the issue. The committee then voted to pass SCR 39, SCR 40, SCR 83, SCR 96, and SCR 166 unamended. SCR 168 was passed with amendments to reflect OPSD's requested changes and to make the working group temporary, with a two-year term and annual reports due before session. SCR 172 was passed with amendments accepted from Earthjustice. Rep. Quinlan was noted as excused for the votes, and the committee adjourned after adopting the final recommendation.
HI
Transcript Highlights:
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after <00:12:27.839>a <00:12:28.079>lot <00:12:28.160>of <00:12:32.000>- ,
finance <00:12:32.480>has <00:12:32.720>asked <00:12:32.959>< - c><00:12:37.040>
discussions <00:12:37.680>and <00:12:37.760>and <00:12:38.079>- and I do not<00:12:38.560>
have <00:12:38.800>my <00:12:38.959>WAM <00:12:39.360 - and I do not<00:12:38.560>
MN
Transcript Highlights:
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I <00:12:05.080>did <00:12:05.280>want <00:12:05.440>to <00:12:22.800>But, <00:12:23.480>uh <00:12:23.600>I <00:12:23.720>too <00:12:46.400>- 12:33.840>
this <00:12:34.000>bill <00:12:34.240>as <00:12:34.400>well. - Within<00:12:34.920>
this <00:12:35.160>bill <00:12:35.440>is <00:12:35.600>a - > need
to <00:12:46.480>give <00:12:46.600>them <00:12:46.760>< - 12:33.840>
Summary:
The Senate convened under call, established a quorum, and heard a prayer and pledge. The main legislative business was House amendments to Senate File 2511, the liquor bill authorizing various municipalities to issue liquor licenses. Senators described it as a bipartisan “one-off” liquor bill with local provisions, including a St. Louis Park food hall license, Minneapolis food hall licenses, a Rochester Chateau Theater provision, expanded University of Minnesota liquor licensing flexibility, Brainerd’s Northern Pacific Center license, seasonal resort licensing, and a care-facility “granny happy hour” provision. Senator Wesenberg asked about a proposed 17-year-old server provision, and Senator Klein said it had been dropped and was never part of the Senate language.
The Senate concurred in the House amendments to SF 2511, advanced it to third reading, and passed it on final passage by a vote of 56 ayes to 10 nays. The chamber also adopted committee reports, took up a confirmation calendar item, and unanimously confirmed Joseph Sullivan to another six-year term on the Public Utilities Commission after Senator Frentz reported unanimous committee support and cited broad stakeholder backing.
On special orders, the Senate passed House File 3741, which modernizes educational assistance for children and spouses of prisoners of war and deceased veterans by moving coverage under the Minnesota GI Bill and increasing the benefit to $750; it passed 66-0. The Senate also passed Senate File 3622, a 97-page technical and conforming update to the Minnesota Common Interest Ownership Act. Senator Kroon highlighted changes for small common-interest communities, insurance responsibility in mixed-use buildings, buyer disclosure, court-rule alignment, and lien priority definitions. An A2 amendment delayed the effective date of a separate 308C cooperative housing rewrite for one year to allow more consumer-protection work; after discussion involving Senators Kroon, Dibble, and Westrom, the amendment was adopted, and SF 3622 then passed 67-0. The Senate later adjourned until the following Wednesday.
MS
Mississippi 2026 Regular Session
Appropriations - Room 216, 2 February, 2026; 1:30 PM
Appropriations
Transcript Highlights:
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And <00:12:07.360>uh <00:12:07.600>it <00:12:07.920>is - And uh it is more<00:12:08.399>
of <00:12:08.560>a <00:12:09.040>I <00:12:09.360> would <00:12:09.519>call <00:12:09.680>it <00:12:09.839>a <00:12:10.720><- ,<00:12:21.040>
but <00:12:21.360>most <00:12:21.680>in <00:12:21.920>your - :12:30.720>
as <00:12:30.880>I <00:12:31.040>know, <00:12:31.279>on <00:12 - :12:30.720>
Summary:
The committee first took up Senate Bill 2189, described as a transfer bill that brings forward code sections tied to the various funds used to compose the budget. With no questions, the committee adopted a title sufficient do pass motion and reported the bill.
The committee then considered Senate Bill 2190, which would raise Mississippi’s rainy day fund cap from 10% to 15% of general fund revenue. The chair explained that the change would gradually build the reserve over time to a little over $1 billion, and clarified in response to questions that the figure did not include money being used for PERS or capex. The bill received a title sufficient do pass recommendation.
Next, Senate Bill 2717 was presented as a modernization of the My Kids youth court information system, which was described as 35 to 40 years old and antiquated. Senator Wiggins said the bill follows an audit and would support an $8 million replacement effort, with a three-year implementation and training period, and that the new system would be cloud-based and allow better data sharing among youth court-related agencies while preserving county-level protections. Senators raised concerns about prior ARPA funding, disclosure of youth court records, and the effect of a repealer in current law; Wiggins and others said related disclosure issues were being addressed in separate Judiciary A bills. The committee then voted title sufficient do pass.
The committee also advanced Senate Bill 2896, a DPS-requested measure tied to pay increases for highway patrol, Bureau of Narcotics, and Bureau of Investigation personnel, with the chair saying the proposal would keep the bill alive through a reverse repealer in the committee substitute. Finally, the committee considered companion bills Senate Bills 2898 and 2924 to provide $20 million to MEMA’s Disaster Assistance Trust Fund in response to the recent ice storm and to cover state disaster expenses. Members discussed federal disaster reimbursement rules, the distinction between individual assistance and public assistance, insurance requirements, and the need for local governments to document eligible expenses. Both bills were adopted by title sufficient do pass, and the committee also passed Senate Bill 2917, which changes Mississippi Valley State University’s request from a new residence hall to repair and renovation of existing residence halls. The chair then set remaining bills aside for a later meeting and the committee rose and reported.