Video & Transcript : 'war authorization' :
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WA
Washington 2025-2026 Regular Session
House Capital Budget Feb 9th, 2026
Transcript Highlights:
- The substitute bill makes a number of changes to the commission's authorizing statute, including authorizing
- I am all about honoring the sacrifices both ...in World War II.
- I have a distinct problem with the term and the title of this, the war on terror.
- Because in any war, there are innocent lives lost.
- and the horrors of war.
Summary:
The Capital Budget Committee met in executive session on several bills before fiscal cutoff. Staff briefed Substitute House Bill 2236 on the State Housing Finance Commission, House Bill 2281 on state-tribal government-to-government relations, House Bill 2514 to establish a Global War on Terror memorial on the Capitol campus, and House Bill 2551 allowing certain school districts to sell real property under specified conditions. Staff also noted an updated fiscal note for HB 2281 showing a Department of Natural Resources estimate of about a $5 million per-biennium reduction in receipts due to reduced timber sales.
HB 2236 was moved out of committee with a due pass recommendation after members discussed whether it expanded the Housing Finance Commission’s authority; the vote was 10-6 with three excused. HB 2514 also passed out of committee, with members generally supporting recognition of veterans and families affected by war, though some objected to the bill’s title and framing; it passed 12-4 with three excused. HB 2551 drew more concern, with some members arguing school districts should not sell capital assets to cover operating costs and others noting local jurisdiction impacts; after additional discussion and reopening of the vote, it ultimately passed 10-8 with one excused.
HB 2281 was considered with a proposed substitute and two amendments from Representative Walsh. Amendment H-203, intended to protect critical infrastructure projects, and amendment H-202, intended to preserve access related to timber and natural resource sales, were both rejected. Members supporting the bill said it was meant to protect free exercise of religion and tribal interests, while opponents raised concerns about the bill’s effects and the need for more stakeholder work. The substitute bill then passed out of committee 10-8 with one excused.
CA
California 2025-2026 Regular Session
Senate Floor Session May 4th, 2026
California Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- I rise today as a co-author of SR 86.
- And again, I thank the author for bringing this important measure forward. Thank you.
- His career spanned great arcs of American history: the post-World War II era, the Korean War, and decades
- of the early Cold War.
- Naval Reserve officer during World War II. His works were not merely likenesses.
Summary:
The Senate opened with a prayer and Pledge of Allegiance, then spent much of the session on recognitions and resolutions honoring community groups and observances. Members welcomed the Far West region of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and the Los Angeles South Bay alumni chapter, and later recognized the 2026 Latino Spirit Award honorees after adopting SR 86 on Cinco de Mayo Week. Senators from multiple caucuses spoke in support of the resolution, emphasizing Mexican history, Latino resilience, and shared struggles for justice. The Latino Spirit honorees included leaders in higher education, philanthropy, labor, health, advocacy, business, environmental justice, journalism, culinary arts, and music, along with a legacy award for Los Tigres del Norte.
The Senate also adopted SCR 146 declaring May Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month, SCR 154 establishing Green Star Veterans and Families Day, SCR 123 honoring California Peace Officers Memorial Day, SCR 164 recognizing Black Health Equity Advocacy Week, and SCR 103 designating Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week. Testimony and floor remarks focused on health disparities, mental health, veteran suicide, and the sacrifices of peace officers, with several caucuses speaking in support of the health equity resolution. Each of these resolutions passed by unanimous or near-unanimous roll call votes.
The chamber then took up several appointments from the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, confirming Kathleen Ratliff and Joseph Tuggle, Jason Johnson, Madeline McLean, Brian Bishop, and Sarah Larson, despite some protest votes from Senator Grove over the lack of action on another appointment. In third reading, the Senate passed SB 1159 on AI and public participation, SB 1416 on faster refunds for duplicate medical payments, SB 1273 on winery video advertising at instructional events, SB 941 limiting commissary markups in private detention facilities, SB 990 on a highway information sign near Ridgecrest, SB 1099 clarifying local authority to provide public benefits, and SB 1195 expanding tied-house exemptions for certain venues. The session concluded with adjournment memories for labor leader Kent Wong and Navy veteran-artist Vittaliano Victor Villar, and the Senate adjourned until May 7, 2026.
CA
California 2025-2026 Regular Session
Senate Floor Session Mar 19th, 2026
California Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- In 1973, John Burton authored AB 134. It created Thank you. Senator Duasso. Thank you, Mr.
- In 1973, John Burton authored AB 134. It created John Burton authored AB 134.
- It's kind of like saying that the war in Iran was well planned.
- And together we authored a bill that you all helped us pass, and we made that a reality.
- And together we authored a bill that you all helped us pass, and we made that a reality.
Summary:
The Senate met with a quorum, welcomed former legislative leaders and members to the floor, and opened with a prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance. The session then focused on several ceremonial resolutions and a lengthy adjourn-in-memory tribute to former Senate President Pro Tem John Burton. Members repeatedly described Burton as a forceful, unvarnished advocate for foster youth, the poor, and other vulnerable Californians, while also sharing personal stories about his humor, bluntness, and bipartisan relationships. The Senate also announced upcoming committee hearings and birthday recognitions for several members and former Speaker Willie Brown.
Three resolutions were taken up and adopted unanimously or near-unanimously. SCR 133, by Senator Grayson, recognized California Down Syndrome Awareness Month and Day; Grayson spoke about the dignity, autonomy, and contributions of people with Down syndrome, and introduced guests from the Down Syndrome Connection of the Bay Area and several families. SCR 134, by Senator Wahab, recognized Nowruz and the Afghan American community; Wahab and Senator Caballero highlighted the holiday’s themes of renewal and the contributions of Persian and Afghan Americans, and members received baklava gift boxes. SCR 139, also by Senator Wahab, recognized Afghan American Heritage Month; Wahab and Senator Grove emphasized Afghan Americans’ history, resilience, and service, and Wahab introduced leaders from the Afghan Coalition and other community advocates. Each resolution was adopted by roll call vote.
The remainder of the session was devoted to memorial remarks for John Burton, with speeches from the President Pro Tem, minority leader, and many senators recalling his work on foster youth, public service, and California politics. Members also suspended and later reinstated Mason’s Manual rules to allow direct quotations during the tribute. The Senate concluded by expressing condolences to Burton’s family and colleagues, inviting members to a reception, and announcing that the chamber would reconvene later in the week for the formal adjourn-in-memory motion.
US
US Federal 2025-2026 Regular Session
US House Floor Proceedings (Thursday, July 17, 2025)
US Federal House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- </c> rescend certain budget authority rescend certain budget authority proposed<00:10:53.920><c> to</
- </c><00:46:45.839><c> that</c> actions and regulatory turf wars that actions and regulatory turf wars
- </c><00:59:17.359><c> and</c> agencies and overlapping authority and agencies and overlapping authority
- </c> agencies with the appropriate authority agencies with the appropriate authority to<01:21:33.840>
- . authorization. authorization.
Keywords:
defense appropriations, military funding, national security, Department of Defense, fiscal year 2026, House of Representatives, election, Speaker, Clerk, Congress, budget authority, rescission, fiscal policy, government funding, impoundment, Federal Reserve, digital currency, monetary policy, financial services, privacy
HI
Hawaii 2026 Regular Session
PSM-EIG, PSM DEFER, PSM, PSM-EDU Public Hearings 02-13-2026
Public Safety and Military Affairs
Transcript Highlights:
- II, the Korean War, or the Vietnam War. offering it to graduates offering it to graduates >> senator
- World War II, the Korean<00:26:47.600><c> War,</c><00:26:47.840><c> or</c><00:26:48.000><c> the</c><
- </c><00:26:49.440><c> And</c><00:26:49.760><c> we</c> Korean War, or the Vietnam War.
- And we Korean War, or the Vietnam War. And we have<00:26:51.120><c> Mr.</c><00:26:51.679><c> ing.
- And so the recommendation is to incorporate section... the wars that involved Hawaii and Hawaii the wars
Committee:
Senate Public Safety and Military Affairs
Summary:
The committees heard and then took action on several measures. Senate Bill 3048, relating to the State Building Code Council and the Office of Planning and Sustainable Development, received support from OPSD and the Chamber of Commerce, with OPSD requesting amendments tied to software licensing and a public permitting dashboard. The committees ultimately recommended passing the bill with amendments, including an effective date, and later adopted that recommendation by vote. Senate Bill 3083, relating to protective orders, drew support from the U.S. Defense State Liaison Office, the Military and Community Relations Office, and a member of the public, while the Judiciary asked that the bill be deferred or amended because a prior notification process had lapsed and a new mandate could be difficult to implement. The committees nevertheless recommended passage with amendments and an effective date, noting implementation concerns in the report, and that recommendation was adopted.
The committees also considered Senate Bill 3010, which would allow law enforcement, animal control officers, and firefighters to enter unattended vehicles to rescue animals in distress. The Animal Legal Defense Fund supported the measure as a common-sense good Samaritan protection, and the Hawaii Association for Justice recommended a small amendment. The bill was recommended for passage with amendments and later adopted. Senate Bill 3187, relating to off-site construction and SPEED Task Force recommendations, received OPSD testimony in support with comments; the committees recommended passing it with amendments, deleting the dollar amount and adding an effective date, and adopted that recommendation.
In a later joint hearing with the Committee on Education, Senate Bill 2138, which would expand the Hawaii National Guard State Tuition Assistance Program to graduate study, received support from the University of Hawaii, the Department of Defense, the Hawaii Army National Guard, and the U.S. Defense State Liaison Office. Members asked whether the current law limited assistance to undergraduate degrees and whether the program would require new funding; witnesses said the bill would simply expand authority and could be implemented within the current budget. Senate Bill 2614, authorizing high school diplomas for certain veterans whose schooling was interrupted by military service or wartime practices, also drew support from DOE and the U.S. Defense State Liaison Office, with DOE explaining it had previously issued diplomas under an earlier version of the law and would verify eligibility through an application process. Senate Bill 2687, requiring a 100th Infantry Battalion history curriculum plan and pilot program, drew mixed testimony: DOE said the topic is already covered in existing social studies standards and the bill was unnecessary, while supporters argued the history is not being consistently taught and should be mandated. The transcript cuts off before final action on the education bills.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- The language also aligns the commission's authority for affiliated nonprofit organizations with the authority
- Senator Cole Corse, I noticed that it transfers authority regarding Civil War markers from the Texas
- Yes, it says the former Texas Civil War Centennial Commission.
- Yes, it says the former Texas Civil War Centennial Commission.
- The mention of the Civil War Centennial is a different set of markers that were done later, Senator.
Committee:
Senate Economic Development
Keywords:
border region, infrastructure, economic development, government operations, education, HB 2768, Texas information technology apprenticeship, state IT credential, information resources workforce, junior college, technical institute, apprenticeship program, workforce development, state agency hiring, job classification, career ladder, bachelor's degree substitution, associate degree, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, state auditor classification officer
Summary:
The Senate Economic Development Committee met without a quorum, so no votes or formal actions were taken. The chair laid out several bills and resolutions for explanation and public testimony, with each item left pending subject to the call of the chair. Early items included House Bill 1240, a cleanup measure to create a single uniform definition of the Texas-Mexico border region across state law, and House Bill 2768, which would establish an IT apprenticeship credential through junior colleges and technical institutions to help fill state government technology jobs.
The committee also heard House Concurrent Resolution 90, which would encourage establishing a Texas trade and investment office in Jerusalem. Testimony on the resolution was sharply divided: one witness opposed it on foreign policy and values grounds, while a Texas Association of Business representative strongly supported it, citing Israel’s innovation and trade potential. Another major item was House Bill 4187, a committee substitute for legislation affecting the Texas Historical Commission; the sponsor described changes expanding use of trust fund money for historic sites, allowing more affiliated nonprofits, clarifying retail operations, and creating a framework for training and consistent interpretation at historic sites. A Texas Historical Commission witness explained that the bill would shift responsibility for maintaining many state-owned historical markers and monuments, including markers on private land, to the commission.
Additional measures included House Bill 2788, which would shield Texas Workforce Commission fraud-prevention methods from public information requests; House Bill 5032, directing state agencies to plan for public display of the Texas Declaration of Independence, Texas Constitution, and the Victory or Death letter at the Capitol Complex; House Bill 3146, which would eliminate outdated memoranda-of-understanding requirements for certain State Office of Administrative Hearings arrangements; and House Bill 4815, a cleanup bill modernizing economic development statutes, revising the Made in Texas standard to 51% Texas-origin content, repealing the Governor’s Broadband Development Council, and making other conforming changes. The committee ended by recessing, with members indicating they would likely vote on pending business later when a quorum was available.
CA
California 2025-2026 Regular Session
Assembly Budget Subcommittee No. 5 on State Administration Nov 21st, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- We couldn't join the VFW because they said it wasn't really a war.
- And you authored both of these bills.
- But all these projects are ultimately legislatively authorized.
- My uncle was a World War II veteran. His name was Thomas Hecht.
- If you remember during the Vietnam War, Agent Orange was used.
Summary:
The hearing focused on the long-delayed Southern California Veterans Cemetery project at Gypsum Canyon in Anaheim, with opening remarks from Assemblymember Sharon Quirk-Silva, Senator Tom Umberg, and Assemblymember Avelino Valencia emphasizing the project’s importance to Orange County veterans and families. Anaheim city leaders, including the mayor pro tem and council members, voiced strong support and described the city’s role in planning, utilities, and final approvals. Quirk-Silva reviewed the project history, including prior legislation, county and state funding commitments, and the recent federal determination that the site meets VA criteria for a state veterans cemetery.
The first panel, representing the veterans community, included the American Legion, American Gold Star Mothers, and Valor. They argued that Orange County—home to a large veteran population—still lacks a local veterans cemetery, forcing families to travel long distances to Riverside or elsewhere. Testimony stressed the emotional and practical burden on aging veterans and grieving families, and called for immediate action and possession of the property. Some speakers were sharply critical of CalVet and the pace of the process, saying veterans have waited too long and that the project should move forward without further delay.
The second panel, from Orange County, described the county’s and cemetery district’s support and the unique opportunity to develop a shared site for a public cemetery and a separate state veterans cemetery. County officials said the county has dedicated land and funding, and that shared infrastructure—roads, utilities, grading, and access—could reduce costs substantially if the two projects are coordinated. They also said the county is ready to transfer the property to CalVet when appropriate and that the project has already cleared major local approvals and litigation.
The final panel from DGS and CalVet explained the state’s feasibility study and current planning work. DGS said the 2023 study estimated the state’s portion of phase one at about $126 million, largely driven by site work and grading, though that estimate may change as assumptions are updated. CalVet said it is working with DGS and the county on a revised concept plan to lower costs and refine the timeline, and that legislative budget action will be needed to authorize spending from the Southern California Veterans Cemetery fund. No formal vote was taken; the hearing was informational, and the main action was continued coordination among the state, county, city, and veterans groups, with public comment at the end overwhelmingly urging faster construction.
CA
California 2025-2026 Regular Session
Assembly Utilities and Energy Committee May 5th, 2026
Utilities and Energy
Transcript Highlights:
- California prices are up about a dollar and a half since the war started.
- That has gone up somewhat since the beginning of the war.
- , but what additional authority does the CEC... ...authority, but what additional authority does the
- But the war has definitely destroyed 5 to 6 percent of that cushion.
- The war has definitely destroyed five to six percent of that cushion.
Committee:
House Utilities and Energy
MN
Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session
Legislating Legacy - Senator Foung Hawj Jun 9th, 2025
Minnesota Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- Um, you author several bills, and a lot of the bills you've authored this session are appropriation bills
- Um, you author several bills, and a lot of the bills you've authored this session are appropriation bills
- and during the Vietnam War as any other Americans and also they are proxy soldiers, meaning they fought
- and during the Vietnam War as any other Americans and also they are proxy soldiers, meaning they fought
- During the Vietnam War as any other Americans, and also they are proxy soldiers, meaning they fought;
US
US Federal 2025-2026 Regular Session
Hearings to examine the nominations of Reed Rubinstein, of Maryland, to be Legal Adviser, Mike Huckabee, of Arkansas, to be Ambassador to the State of Israel, and Kevin Cabrera, of Florida, to be Ambassador to the Republic of Panama, all of the Depar Mar 25th, 2025 at 09:00 am
Foreign Relations Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- It was just three months before the Yom Kippur War. I was 17 years old, right out of high school.
- That war still continues.
- He did all of this despite the pearl-clutching in Washington without a single war.
- It covers Palestinian Authority incitement of violence against Israel.
- Congress has its view of, for example, its authority to terminate treaties. and Mr.
Committee:
Senate Foreign Relations Committee
Summary:
The committee meeting was focused on various key issues, including the implications of recent violence in the Middle East and U.S. foreign policy in relation to Israel and Panama. Members discussed the need for diplomatic efforts between the U.S. and Israeli officials following the recent attack by Hamas. Governor Huckabee emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong U.S.-Israel relationship and reiterated the need for accountability for terrorist organizations involved in violent acts against civilians. Senators shared their concerns regarding the ramifications of U.S. actions in Panama and the presence of Chinese influence, highlighting the significance of the Panama Canal in terms of trade and security.
CA
California 2025-2026 Regular Session
Assembly Floor Session Jan 16th, 2026
California House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- He condemned wars waged abroad and at home, and he condemned wars against poor people, against Black
- This is for co-authors on ACR 116. All members vote who desire to vote. This is for co-authors.
- There are 67 co-authors on the resolution.
- The clerk will open the roll for co-authors on The clerk will open the roll for co-authors on ACR 118
- There are 67 co-authors on the measure.
Summary:
The Assembly convened after an initial quorum call, then proceeded with prayer, the pledge, and routine motions. Members approved several procedural requests, including moving AB 362 to the inactive file and allowing the Natural Resources Committee to hear AB 34 on January 16. The chamber also recognized guests and paid tribute to retiring Republican caucus consultant Daryl Thomas, with remarks from multiple members praising his long service and legal analysis work.
The main floor action centered on ACR 116, a resolution honoring Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Members from several caucuses and both parties spoke in support, emphasizing King’s legacy of civil rights, economic justice, nonviolence, and unfinished work. After opening the roll for coauthors, the resolution received 67 coauthors and was adopted by voice vote. The Assembly then took up ACR 118, recognizing Korean American Day; members highlighted Korean American history, community contributions, solidarity with other communities, and the significance of Koreatown and Korean American civic life. That resolution also received 67 coauthors and was adopted by voice vote.
The consent calendar was then adopted on a 64-0 vote, including ACR 115 on National Blood Donor Month. The chamber also held an adjournment in memory for former legislator David Kelly, with a tribute to his military service, agricultural background, and legislative work on water conservation and sustainable agriculture. The Assembly announced the upcoming Martin Luther King Day recess and adjourned until Tuesday, January 20 at 1 p.m.
US
US Federal 2025-2026 Regular Session
US House Floor Proceedings (Tuesday, April 8, 2025)
US Federal House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- </c> distinction during World War II. distinction during World War II.
- After the war, he built a freedom.
- War II.
- authorized and it our nation is author authorized and it is<07:13:51.840><c> authorized</c><07:13:52.320
- war. a world war America helped end that war. a world war in<07:17:38.718><c> Asia</c><07:17:39.440>
Keywords:
injunctive relief, court authority, legal proceedings, federal law, separation of powers, committee appointments, House of Representatives, membership, standing committees, legislative process, pairs, voting procedure, Congress, financial protection, overdraft lending, digital payments, consumer protection, voter registration, remote voting, proxy voting
CA
California 2025-2026 Regular Session
Assembly Utilities and Energy Committee May 5th, 2026
Transcript Highlights:
- That has gone up somewhat since the beginning of the war.
- So the CEC seems to have some statutory authority, but what additional authority does the CEC or a different
- But the war has definitely destroyed 5% to 6% of that cushion.
- The war has definitely destroyed five to six percent of that cushion.
- execs out of action. and this merits some authorized execs out of action.
Summary:
The Assembly Committee on Utilities and Energy held a hearing on the impact of the Iran conflict and global oil supply disruption on California fuel markets. Committee members and administration witnesses from the California Energy Commission and the Division of Petroleum Market Oversight described California’s heavy reliance on imported crude and refined products, the state’s shrinking refining base, current inventory levels, and how global supply tightness is affecting gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel prices. CEC officials said near-term supply looked adequate for roughly the next six weeks, but warned that continued disruption would likely raise prices further and increase competition for imports. DPMO said the conflict is a real supply shock, but also emphasized a separate, longstanding problem of unusually high California retail gasoline prices, especially among major branded stations.
Witnesses and members debated the causes of high prices and the state’s longer-term fuel strategy. Professor Severin Borenstein argued that much of the price gap beyond taxes and environmental costs comes from a “mystery gasoline surcharge” downstream of refineries, while also noting that California’s shrinking number of refineries creates market-power and supply-resilience concerns. Western States Petroleum Association CEO Jody Mueller argued that state policies have weakened California’s refining system and made it more vulnerable to global shocks, urging the state to protect remaining refining capacity and improve infrastructure for imports. United Steelworkers Local 675 Vice President Norman Rogers stressed the need for safe, reliable refinery operations and adequate staffing.
Several members pressed witnesses on whether California should rely more on imports, how to manage inventories and port/storage capacity, and whether the state needs clearer authority and better data collection to coordinate fuel policy. Discussion also covered branded versus unbranded gasoline pricing, the role of California fuel specifications, and whether a floating gas tax or other policy tools could buffer consumers from global price spikes. No formal votes or committee actions were taken during the hearing.
CA
California 2025-2026 Regular Session
Assembly Budget Subcommittee No. 5 on State Administration Nov 21st, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- We couldn't join the VFW because they said it wasn't really a war.
- You authored both of these bills.
- But all these projects are ultimately legislatively authorized.
- My uncle was a World War II veteran. His name was Thomas Hecht.
- If you remember during the Vietnam War, Agent Orange was used.
Summary:
The hearing focused on the long-delayed Southern California Veterans Cemetery project at Gypsum Canyon in Anaheim, with members of the Assembly, Senate, City of Anaheim, Orange County, CalVet, DGS, and veterans organizations discussing next steps. Chair Sharon Quirk-Silva reviewed the project’s history, including the earlier Irvine effort, the 2021 Anaheim support resolution, county and state funding commitments, and the recent federal determination that the site meets criteria for a state veterans cemetery. Speakers repeatedly emphasized the need for a local burial site for Orange County’s large veteran population and the burden on families who currently must travel to Riverside, San Diego, or Los Angeles.
The first panel featured veterans advocates and Gold Star family members who strongly urged immediate action. The American Legion, Gold Star Mothers, and the Veterans Alliance of Orange County said the cemetery is overdue and stressed that older veterans and grieving families should not have to wait longer. Several speakers described personal losses and the hardship of long travel to existing cemeteries, while also calling for CalVet and state leaders to move faster and communicate more directly with veterans groups. Assembly and Senate members responded with support, noting the bipartisan nature of the effort and the importance of honoring veterans and their families.
The second panel, with Orange County officials, described the county’s support and the unique shared-use arrangement with the Orange County Cemetery District. Supervisor Don Wagner said the county has dedicated land and $20 million, and county and district staff explained that the public cemetery and state veterans cemetery can share roads, utilities, grading, and other infrastructure to reduce costs. They said the county is ready to transfer property to CalVet when appropriate and that collaboration could save tens of millions of dollars. The third panel from DGS and CalVet explained that a 2023 feasibility study estimated the state’s portion at about $126 million under earlier assumptions, but that a revised concept plan is now being developed to lower costs and update the timeline. CalVet said it remains committed to the project, while legislators pressed for clearer answers on what is needed to begin construction and how budget action in the coming year could help. No formal vote was taken; the hearing ended with public comments, many of which echoed the call to begin construction immediately and criticized the pace of state action.
CA
California 2025-2026 Regular Session
Senate Floor Session Mar 19th, 2026
California Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- I will even go further, as we have stated, Afghans have actually fought in the Civil War.
- In 1973, John Burton authored AB 134. It created John Burton authored AB 134.
- It's kind of like saying that the war in Iran was well planned.
- And together we authored a bill that you all helped us pass, and we made that a reality.
- And together we authored a bill that you all helped us pass, and we made that a reality.
CA
California 2025-2026 Regular Session
Senate Floor Session Mar 19th, 2026
California Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- In 1973, John Burton authored AB 134. It created...
- In 1973, John Burton authored AB 134. It created John Burton authored AB 134.
- I propose today that we sign on as co-authors to ACA 17 for the 2028 ballot.
- It's kind of like saying that the war in Iran was well planned.
- And together we authored a bill that you all helped us pass, and we made that a reality.
Summary:
The Senate convened with a quorum, opened with prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, and welcomed numerous former legislators to the floor. The body then moved through the daily file, including several resolutions recognizing cultural observances and a memorial tribute to former President Pro Tem John Burton. Senator Padilla also moved file item 24 to the enacted file, and the Senate announced upcoming committee and budget subcommittee meetings later in the day.
The chamber adopted Senate Concurrent Resolution 133, recognizing California Down Syndrome Awareness Month and Day, after remarks from Senator Grayson about the contributions and dignity of people with Down syndrome and the importance of support systems for individuals and families. The Senate also adopted SCR 134 recognizing Nowruz and the Afghan American community, with remarks from Senator Wahab and support from Senator Kaverya, and adopted SCR 139 recognizing Afghan American Heritage Month. Each resolution passed by roll call vote with no opposition.
A major portion of the session was devoted to an adjourned-in-memory tribute to former Senate President Pro Tem John Burton. Senators from both parties and several former members offered personal recollections emphasizing Burton’s advocacy for foster youth, working people, and marginalized Californians, as well as his blunt style and political influence. Members highlighted his legislative legacy, his later work through the John Burton Advocates for Youth, and his role in shaping California politics and San Francisco. The Senate concluded the tribute, invited members to a reception, and announced that it would remain in recess before reconvening later in the week.
CA
California 2025-2026 Regular Session
Senate Floor Session Apr 6th, 2026
California Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- Pérez, it gives me great pleasure to welcome State Superintendent Thurman's celebration of young authors
- , which includes ten Superintendent Thurman's celebration of young authors, which includes 10 elementary
- We'd like to give them a round of applause to our 10 published authors. If you could please write.
- Country Joe understood the power of music in bringing people together and challenging authority.
- He argued that the way to achieve peace is through understanding war and recognizing the key role that
Summary:
The Senate opened with a quorum call, prayer, and the Pledge of Allegiance, then recognized guests including young authors selected for publication and leaders involved with the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games. The chamber adopted SCR 138, recognizing Architecture Week, with the author highlighting California architects’ work on climate resilience, energy efficiency, wildfire safety, and housing innovation, and noting the underrepresentation of women in the profession. The resolution passed unanimously, 32-0.
The Senate also confirmed two gubernatorial appointments. Francisco Kim was confirmed to the California Acupuncture Board by a unanimous 28-0 vote. Davina Hurt was confirmed to the California Water Commission by a 26-7 vote after supportive remarks from Senator Becker, who cited her experience on the Belmont City Council and the Air Resources Board. The body also approved the Senate journals, pulled SCR 124 from the consent agenda, and announced upcoming committee hearings after adjournment.
The remainder of the session was devoted to adjournment-in-memory tributes. Senator Wiener honored Andrea Schroeder, describing her long career in LGBTQ advocacy, women’s leadership, civic service, and political organizing in San Francisco and beyond. Senator Arreguín remembered Country Joe McDonald for his music, anti-war activism, and Berkeley ties, and Senator Hurtado honored Brenda Joe Martin for her community leadership in Lamor and work with local business and civic organizations. The Senate then recessed with plans to reconvene on April 9, 2026.
US
US Federal 2025-2026 Regular Session
US House Floor Proceedings (Wednesday, June 25, 2025)
US Federal House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- President, no one person should have the authority to take 300 million plus people to war on his own
- No more wars.
- </c> the global war on terrorism continues. the global war on terrorism continues.
- </c> authorization.
- Taking our country to war authorization.
Keywords:
appropriations, military construction, veterans affairs, VA funding, USDA, agriculture appropriations, legislative branch appropriations, fiscal year 2026, omnibus, spending bill, rural development, rural housing, broadband, SNAP, WIC, school lunch, food safety, FDA user fees, veterans health care, toxic exposure
CA
California 2025-2026 Regular Session
Senate Floor Session May 4th, 2026
California Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- I rise today as a co-author of SR 86.
- And again, I thank the author for bringing this important measure forward. Thank you.
- His career spanned great arcs of American history: the post-World War II era, the Korean War, and decades
- of the early Cold War.
- Naval Reserve officer during World War II. His works were not merely likenesses.
Summary:
The Senate convened with a quorum, opened with prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, and then spent much of the session on floor recognitions. Members welcomed the Far West Region of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and honored its leadership and civic service, including wildfire recovery work and local chapter anniversaries. The body also recognized the 2026 Latino Spirit Award honorees, with remarks tied to Cinco de Mayo and Latino resilience, followed by a series of resolutions and guest introductions.
Several resolutions were adopted, including SR 86 on Cinco de Mayo Week, SCR 146 declaring May Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month, SCR 154 establishing Green Star Veterans and Families Day, SCR 123 recognizing California Peace Officers Memorial Day, SCR 164 designating Black Health Equity Advocacy Week, and SCR 103 on Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week. Testimony and remarks emphasized cultural heritage, shared struggles for justice, veterans’ mental health and suicide prevention, law enforcement sacrifice, and persistent racial health disparities. Most resolutions passed by unanimous roll call votes.
The Senate also confirmed multiple Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation appointments, including Kathleen Ratliff and Joseph Tuggle, Jason Johnson, Madeline McLean, Brian Bishop, and Sarah Larson. Senators Grove and others voiced protest over CDCR appointments, arguing for consideration of Frank Silva, but the confirmations still passed overwhelmingly or unanimously. The chamber then approved several bills, including SB 1159 on artificial intelligence and public meetings, SB 1416 shortening refund timelines for duplicate medical/dental payments, SB 1273 expanding tied-house advertising rules for winery instructional events, SB 941 limiting commissary markups in private detention facilities, SB 1099 clarifying local authority to provide public benefits, SB 1195 expanding tied-house exemptions for certain venues, and SB 990 allowing a highway information sign near Ridgecrest. The session concluded with adjournment memories for labor leader and UCLA Labor Center director Kent Wong and recognition of his family and colleagues.
US
US Federal 2025-2026 Regular Session
Hearings to examine the Arctic and Greenland's geostrategic importance to U.S. interests. Feb 12th, 2025 at 09:00 am
Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- We've seen a military presence in Greenland since World War II, particularly at Patufik Space Base, which
- Instead of starting a new trade war, America must reinvigorate and expand cooperation with our allies
- Congress has authorized six more icebreakers but that is still only a fraction of what is required.
- The U.S. actually occupied Greenland during World War II.
- Greenland was strategic during World War II and the Cold War for the U.S. and its allies.
Keywords:
Greenland, acquisition, national security, Arctic, geopolitical, China, Russia, icebreakers, trade routes
Summary:
The meeting convened by the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation focused on the potential acquisition of Greenland by the United States. This issue, first raised by President Trump in 2019, has gained renewed significance amidst shifting global dynamics and the strategic importance of Greenland in relation to transatlantic trade routes and national security. The members discussed the geopolitical implications of Greenland's position, especially given the increasing influence of China and Russia in the Arctic region. Notably, the urgency to address military presence and icebreaker capabilities in the Arctic was a major point of contention, with a call for a new fleet to counter foreign dominance in the area.