Video & Transcript : 'Democrat' :
Page 240 of 312
MO
Transcript Highlights:
- The administrations in Washington, both Democrat and Republican, the past few years have strongly encouraged
Committee:
House Utilities
MO
Transcript Highlights:
- The administrations in Washington, both Democrat and Republican, over the past few years have strongly
Committee:
House Utilities
Summary:
The Committee on Utilities first met in executive session and adopted a House Committee substitute for House Bills 2658, 2147, 2472, and 2546 by a roll call vote of 20 ayes and 1 no. The substitute expanded telephone solicitation language to include unsolicited real estate solicitations, adjusted reassigned-number compliance language, and refined spoofing-related definitions to focus on intent to cause harm or wrongfully obtain value. Members also discussed how the no-call list, existing business relationships, and political fundraising calls would be treated under the substitute.
The committee then heard House Bills 1626 and 2122, both relating to nuclear energy and construction work in progress (CWIP/QIP) financing for nuclear projects. The sponsors argued the bills would remove an outdated barrier to nuclear construction in Missouri, especially for small modular reactors, by allowing utilities to recover construction costs during construction and thereby reduce interest and overall project cost. They emphasized ratepayer protections through clawback provisions, the role of the Public Service Commission, future energy demand, economic development, and keeping Missouri competitive with other states.
Several members raised concerns about higher utility rates, the risk of cost overruns, the possibility of ratepayers paying for projects that are delayed or never completed, and whether the proposal was premature given that SMRs are not yet widely deployed in the United States. In response, the sponsors and supporters said the bill would include refund protections similar to Senate Bill 4 and that the PSC would oversee prudence and timing. Public witnesses in support included business, utility, and municipal representatives, as well as Missouri S&T’s chancellor, who stressed workforce development and the growing national and global move toward nuclear power. The hearing on House Bills 1626 and 2122 was then closed.
FL
Florida 2026 Regular Session
Appropriations Committee on Criminal and Civil Justice Feb 18th, 2026
Appropriations Committee on Criminal and Civil Justice
Transcript Highlights:
- I urge you to research this case and see the Tallahassee Democrat articles on this, where they showed
Keywords:
foreclosure, court clerks, budget management, judicial sales, Florida statutes, bail bonds, pretrial release, forfeiture, criminal justice, bond conditions, surety, attorney fees, litigation costs, court jurisdiction, equitable awards, financial resources, domestic violence, protective injunctions, electronic monitoring, enhanced penalties
MO
Missouri 2026 Regular Session
2026 Legislative Session - Day Twenty Two - Tuesday, February 17 -Afternoon Session-
Missouri House Floor Meeting
MO
Missouri 2026 Regular Session
2026 Legislative Session - Day Twenty Two - Tuesday, February 17 -Afternoon Session-
Missouri House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- They are here to engage in the democratic process, to learn to build relationships, and to ensure that
Summary:
The House first established a quorum after a brief call of the board and then recognized several guest delegations, including a Kansas City Hispanic Day at the Capitol group and later visitors from Grandview, Pagedale, Bolivar, and a fire service leadership program. After that, the chamber took up House Bill 2498, a juvenile justice measure focused on more oversight in serious juvenile cases, expanded data sharing through the MULES system, and changes to certification procedures for certain felonies and repeat offenses. Members debated whether adding prosecuting attorneys to the certification process was appropriate, whether the bill would expand juvenile certification, and whether the bill’s original parent-liability provisions could harm foster placements; those liability provisions were ultimately removed through amendment. The bill was then adopted as amended.
The House also considered House Committee Substitute for House Bills 2637 and 3155, described as a “transparency in sentencing” bill. Supporters said it would make sentencing and parole eligibility clearer by setting minimum time-served percentages in statute, while critics argued it would mostly raise minimums, especially for lower-level felonies, without truly increasing transparency. Members discussed changes to dangerous felony treatment, sex offenses, trafficking, prior commitments, and how time served would be certified at sentencing. The committee substitute was adopted and ordered perfected and printed.
Finally, the House recommitted House Committee Substitute for House Bills 2780 and 2668 to the Special Committee on Property Tax Reform for further work, with members agreeing more hearings and revisions were needed. The chamber then moved to announcements, including committee meeting notices and a Black History Program invitation, and adjourned until the next day.
MO
Transcript Highlights:
- Republican governor, he appointed some members to the board, and immediately upon election of a Democrat
Committee:
House Transportation
NM
New Mexico 2026 Regular Session
House - Commerce and Economic Development Feb 13th, 2026
Transcript Highlights:
- I am a member of the Environmental Justice Caucus of the Democratic Party of this state, and I request
Summary:
The committee first took up SB 96, which would reduce local zoning, fee, parking, HOA, and sprinkler-related barriers for child care operators and home-based child care facilities. The sponsor and the Early Childhood Education and Care Department said the bill is intended to expand child care access, especially in rural areas and child care deserts, while maintaining safety standards. Firefighters, child care advocates, and other supporters testified in favor, while one member objected to the bill’s limits on local control. The committee asked about “stacking spaces” and parking rules, then approved SB 96 on a 7-4 vote.
The committee then considered House Bill 303, as amended, dealing with utility construction and certificate of convenience and necessity timing. Utility representatives from El Paso Electric, Xcel Energy, and PNM, along with consumer and energy groups, supported the bill, saying it would let utilities begin construction before the CCN process is complete, with the utility bearing the risk and no cost recovery if approval is later denied. Members questioned impacts on ratepayers, PRC oversight, co-ops, and the bill’s policy rationale. The committee adopted the amendment and then passed HB 303 as amended unanimously, 11-0.
Finally, the committee heard House Memorial 6, as substituted, which asked for a study of private equity involvement in critical utilities and whether the state should consider a direct equity stake in utilities. Supporters argued the memorial would provide independent data before major ownership decisions, citing concerns about private equity acquisitions and the need to protect ratepayers and public interests. Opponents, including utility and business representatives, argued the PRC already has authority and expertise, warned about due process and conflict-of-interest concerns, and said the memorial could create uncertainty for investment. After extensive debate, the committee first tabled the committee substitute and then tabled HM 6 itself on an 8-3 vote, ending consideration of the memorial.
MD
Transcript Highlights:
- We've been friends since we were baby Democrats, in the Young Dems together in Montgomery County.
AZ
Transcript Highlights:
- So we're doing division on a floor amendment to the bill that no Democrats spoke out on.
Summary:
The House convened with prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, and several guest introductions and proclamations, including International Mother Language Day, Arizona Nurses’ Day, Environmental Day, Teamsters Local 104, and Arizona Aerospace Day. Attendance was recorded at 57 present, zero absent, and three excused. The chamber also announced committee meetings, bill referrals, and later adjourned until Thursday, February 12, 2026.
The main floor action centered on House Bill 2785, a taxation measure tied to federal tax conformity. Members debated whether Arizona should conform to federal tax changes, with supporters arguing it would validate current tax forms and provide tax relief, and opponents warning it would mainly benefit wealthy taxpayers and corporations while reducing state revenue. The bill passed 32-26 with two not voting. The House then resolved into Committee of the Whole for two calendars of bills.
In Committee of the Whole, the House advanced HB 2190, HB 2206, HB 2396, HB 2442, and HB 2448, all on health and human services topics, with amendments adopted on the first three. HB 2206 drew extended debate over SNAP payment error rates and whether the bill would impose an unfunded mandate and make benefits harder to access; supporters said it would reduce waste and save money, while opponents said it would set DES up for failure. HB 2396, which would restrict certain SNAP purchases, drew testimony over whether it would improve nutrition or unfairly limit low-income families and create a “food police” system. HB 2442 and HB 2448 also drew criticism over added SNAP work requirements and limits on agency waiver authority during recessions. The Committee later advanced HB 2688, HB 2689, HB 2690, HB 2796, and HB 2797, including bills on government staffing, hospital immigration-status data collection, unemployment benefits, SNAP eligibility/redeterminations, and fraud reporting. HB 2689 prompted sharp opposition over fears it would deter immigrants and mixed-status families from seeking medical care, while HB 2796 and HB 2797 were criticized as adding administrative burdens and duplicative SNAP checks. The House adopted the Committee of the Whole report, and a motion to amend the report to show HB 2689 failed was rejected 24-32.
NM
New Mexico 2026 Regular Session
House - Labor, Veterans and Military Affairs Feb 10th, 2026 at 06:49 pm
Transcript Highlights:
- And I'm trying to find the exact page where I saw this in the House Democratic Leadership bill analysis
Summary:
The House Labor, Veterans and Military Affairs Committee met with a quorum and first addressed a point of order over whether HB 270 could be heard after being taken up earlier in the Transportation Committee. The chair ruled the bill could proceed because it was assigned to this committee and had been properly noticed. The committee then heard HB 280, which would create a three-year pilot program to support paid student internships through grants administered by the Department of Workforce Solutions. Supporters said the bill would help fund internships, mentoring, and transportation, and could improve workforce development, graduation outcomes, and pathways into apprenticeships or higher education. Members asked about administrative costs, student selection, rural and tribal access, payment mechanisms, and whether public entities, land grants, and dual credit could be included. The bill sponsor and witnesses said the program would likely serve about 100 students, use a sliding-scale matching model, and allow local flexibility in program design. The committee voted due pass on HB 280.
The committee then heard House Memorial 46, honoring the Hurley family and especially Major General Patrick Hurley and his son Wilson Hurley for military service and artistic contributions in New Mexico. The memorial was presented as a tribute to a family of heroes, and members expressed support. The committee voted due pass on the memorial.
Finally, the committee heard HB 270, which would amend the Public Works Apprentice and Training Act to require contributions to apprenticeship and training programs on most public works projects, including road and utility work, while exempting trades without approved programs. Sponsors said the bill would close loopholes, broaden participation, and strengthen the workforce pipeline. Opposition came from asphalt, contractor, and utility groups, which argued the bill would raise costs, duplicate existing training programs, and create access problems for nonunion and geographically distant contractors. Supporters from mechanical contractors, building trades, and labor groups said the bill would improve workforce development and keep training dollars in New Mexico. After debate over the earlier Transportation Committee action and the bill’s cost impacts, the committee voted due pass on HB 270 by a 5-3 roll call.
NM
New Mexico 2026 Regular Session
Senate - Tax, Business and Transportation Feb 10th, 2026
Transcript Highlights:
- reproductive and gender-affirming health care continue to rise, led largely by the same opponents of basic democratic
Summary:
The committee first heard SB 20, as amended, which would limit prior authorization for certain medications used to treat serious mental illness and extend prior authorization approvals for other chronic maintenance drugs to three years. The sponsor and supporters said the bill would reduce treatment interruptions and administrative burden for patients, clinicians, and pharmacies, while opponents argued the three-year period could raise safety concerns, reduce annual clinical review, and increase costs and premiums. After public testimony and committee discussion, the bill passed on a 7-2 vote.
The committee then considered SB 21, as amended, establishing an annual Medigap open enrollment period with guaranteed issue protections for eligible Medicare beneficiaries already enrolled in Medigap plans. The Aging and Long-Term Services Department said the measure would give seniors more flexibility to change plans as their needs and premiums change, and OSI said premium impacts were expected to be limited. An amendment setting the effective date at January 1, 2027 was adopted, and the bill passed unanimously.
Next, the committee heard SB 177, a large economic development package centered on quantum, advanced energy, defense, and related workforce and research investments. The sponsor and administration witnesses described New Mexico as uniquely positioned to attract major private and federal investment, while members raised questions about guardrails, reporting, use of the Research and Development Fund, and whether EDD could manage the spending and educational components. An amendment removed the public safety section, a technical title fix was adopted, and the bill passed 9-1.
The committee also took up SB 189, which would protect existing coverage and expand insurance coverage for reproductive and gender-affirming care, including mid-year enrollment options for pregnancy and coverage for double electric breast pumps. Supporters said the bill would prevent abrupt coverage changes and ensure access to care, while opponents objected to abortion-related coverage and argued existing law and Medicaid already cover much of the care. A motion to table failed, and the bill then passed 6-4. Finally, the committee unanimously passed Senate Memorial 6 honoring golfer Nancy Lopez and her New Mexico roots and achievements.
NM
New Mexico 2026 Regular Session
House - Labor, Veterans and Military Affairs Feb 10th, 2026
Transcript Highlights:
- I'm trying to find the exact page of where I saw this in the House Democratic Leadership bill analysis
Summary:
The committee first addressed a procedural dispute over House Bill 280, with one member arguing it had already been heard and tabled in another committee earlier that day. The chair ruled the bill was properly before the House Labor, Veterans and Military Affairs Committee because it had been assigned there and published in the notice. HB 280 would create a three-year pilot program to support paid internships for students through grants to school districts, nonprofits, and tribal entities, with the Department of Workforce Solutions administering the program, collecting data, and reporting outcomes. Supporters said it would help build a sustainable funding source for school-year internships, expand access in rural and tribal communities, and connect internships to graduation credit and workforce pathways. Committee members asked about administrative costs, student selection, matching funds, program duration, and whether government entities and land grants could participate. The bill was described as flexible enough to allow different local program designs, including stipends or payroll arrangements. The committee voted do pass on HB 280.
The committee then heard House Memorial 46, which honors the Hurley family, especially Major General Patrick Hurley and his son Wilson Hurley, for military service and public contributions to New Mexico. The memorial highlighted Patrick Hurley’s service in World War I and World War II, his diplomatic roles, and his decorations, as well as Wilson Hurley’s military service and later career as an artist. There was no opposition, and the memorial received a do pass recommendation.
Finally, the committee took up House Bill 270, a public works apprenticeship bill that would require contributions to apprenticeship and training programs or the Public Works Apprentice and Training Fund on most public works construction projects, while exempting trades with no approved program. Supporters argued the bill would close loopholes, strengthen workforce development, and ensure contractors benefiting from public projects contribute to training. Opponents from asphalt, utility, and contractor groups said they already support existing training programs, warned the bill could raise costs and create participation problems for contractors without access to suitable programs, and noted the Transportation Committee had already considered the bill earlier that day. Sponsors responded that the earlier Transportation action was a procedural glitch and that the bill was a cleanup measure to make the existing law more effective and fair. After extended debate over costs, workforce shortages, and the effect on highway contractors, the committee voted do pass on HB 270 by a 5-3 tally.
NM
New Mexico 2026 Regular Session
Senate Chamber Feb 9th, 2026 at 11:18 am
New Mexico Senate Floor Meeting
NM
Transcript Highlights:
- Hovita's experience extends to her tenure as treasurer of the Grant County Democratic Party, as vice
Summary:
The Senate convened, established a quorum, offered an invocation and pledges, and then spent much of the session on ceremonial recognitions and guest introductions. Certificates and remarks highlighted the 30th anniversary of 529 education savings plans and 4-H Day, with senators praising 529 plans as a family education-savings tool and 4-H as a major youth leadership program in all 33 counties. Members also recognized Scouts in America, including Michaela Kern as the first female Eagle Scout from Eddy County, and heard additional presentations tied to New Mexico State University, the College Assistance Migrant Program, and regional councils of government.
Several senators used the floor to introduce students and community members from across the state, especially 4-H participants, NMSU CAMP students, and local youth leadership groups. Comments emphasized agriculture, leadership development, public service, and the importance of volunteer support. One senator also raised concerns about a prior Indian Day incident involving the Navajo Nation being placed at the back for the pledge, urging better decorum and respect in the chamber.
The Senate then processed a governor’s message authorizing Senate Bill 149 for consideration and adopted multiple committee reports moving bills and memorials through the process, including measures referred to education, health and public affairs, tax/business/transportation, rules, finance, and judiciary committees. The body also introduced Senate Memorials 24 and 25 and Senate Joint Memorial 4. A call of the Senate was ordered after objection to moving to third reading, and the sergeant-at-arms reported Senators Sanchez and Tobiassen missing; the chamber remained under call while other business continued. The session ended with committee schedule announcements and a recess until noon the next day.
WA
Washington 2025-2026 Regular Session
House Local Government Feb 3rd, 2026 at 10:30 am
Local Government
Transcript Highlights:
- Assembly Bill 306 was introduced by Democratic Assemblyman Nick Schultz with the intent to help lower
Committee:
House Local Government
Keywords:
municipal permitting, transit projects, high capacity transit, infrastructure, urban development, residential development, commercial zones, mixed-use zoning, urban planning, state regulations, county ferry district, ferry district, passenger-only ferry, passenger ferry, Puget Sound, Vashon, Seattle, Southworth, county transportation, local taxing authority
WA
Washington 2025-2026 Regular Session
House Local Government Feb 3rd, 2026
Transcript Highlights:
- Assembly Bill 306 was introduced by Democratic Assemblyman Nick Schultz with the intent to help lower
Summary:
The committee opened public hearings on House Bill 2141, concerning building codes, and House Bill 2573, concerning community access to food, medicine, and health services, then later took executive action on several bills. HB 2141 would impose a 10-year pause on new state building and energy code updates after the 2024 codes, limit local amendments until the 2036 codes, then move to a six-year update cycle and remove the current energy-code 70% reduction target. Supporters, including the sponsor, builders, local government groups, and some code officials, argued the bill would reduce regulatory churn, lower housing costs, and give builders and local governments more certainty. Opponents, including environmental groups, architects, fire marshals, and code organizations, said the freeze would raise long-term energy costs, undermine safety and climate goals, and delay adoption of new technologies. No action was taken on HB 2141 during the hearing.
HB 2573 would require advance notice before grocery stores or pharmacies close in communities that relied on them for planning under the Growth Management Act, add a health and food access goal and a healthy communities element to the GMA, and authorize cities and counties to use zoning, excise taxes, and nuisance fees to discourage long-term vacancies and preserve access to food and medicine. The sponsor and supporters said the bill responds to recent store closures that created food and pharmacy deserts, especially in overburdened communities, and would give local governments tools to prevent blight and protect access to essential services. Opponents from grocery and retail industry groups argued the bill would punish businesses and property owners, create a chilling effect on investment, and unfairly burden independent landlords. The committee heard testimony on HB 2573 but did not take final action in the portion provided.
During executive action, the committee reported several bills out with do-pass recommendations. HB 2517, on permitting tools for high-capacity transit projects, passed 4-3 after one proposed amendment was rejected and another was adopted to require property-owner consent before certain permits on property not owned by the transit authority. HB 2588, expanding county ferry district authority beyond passenger-only ferries, passed 4-3. HB 1529, allowing cities to use county resources for road construction and maintenance, passed 6-1. HB 2223, creating a limited exemption for irrigation district directors’ spouses’ contracts, passed unanimously. HB 2006, extending the deadline for certain rural counties to designate industrial land banks, passed unanimously after adoption of an amendment narrowing eligibility and adjusting timing requirements.
WA
Washington 2025-2026 Regular Session
House Consumer Protection & Business Jan 30th, 2026 at 08:00 am
Consumer Protection & Business
Transcript Highlights:
- Democrats are going to be 12. Republicans are going to be 18.
Committee:
House Consumer Protection & Business
Keywords:
kratom, consumer protection, regulation, health safety, substance control, infrastructure, protection, safety, security, state regulations, public health, tobacco regulation, smoking cessation, vapor products, health policy, youth prevention, pet insurance, insurance regulation, animal welfare, claims processes
NM
New Mexico 2026 Regular Session
House - Transportation and Public Works Jan 29th, 2026 at 09:09 am
Transcript Highlights:
- And I'm a Democrat, but, you know, I also understand finance, and I understand the loss to the budget
Summary:
The committee first heard TRIP’s annual New Mexico transportation report from Carolyn Boniface Kelly, which described deteriorating roads and bridges, congestion, safety concerns, and a large transportation funding gap. The report said more than half of major roads statewide are in poor or mediocre condition, over 170 bridges are rated poor, congestion costs drivers significant time and money, and traffic crashes and road conditions impose billions in annual costs. Members broadly agreed the report underscored the need for more stable transportation funding, with several noting the state’s recurring underinvestment and the safety risks to motorists, pedestrians, and bicyclists.
The committee then took up Senate Bill 2, a transportation bonding and revenue package. Senator Gonzales and Governor’s office and NMDOT representatives said the bill would authorize about $1.5 billion in additional bond debt for ready-to-go highway projects, while also increasing certain motor vehicle excise, registration, weight-distance, and EV-related fees to help support debt service and transportation funding. Supporters, including contractors, the Greater Albuquerque Chamber, the Department of Finance and Administration, and transportation officials, argued the bill would improve safety, economic development, project delivery, and funding stability, and help preserve federal dollars. Opponents, including the Rio Grande Foundation and some committee members, objected to the tax and fee increases, argued the state should use existing surpluses or other funds instead, and raised concerns about impacts on families, businesses, and local governments.
Committee members questioned how projects would be selected, how the new fees were calculated, how EV surcharges would work, and whether local government distributions would be affected. NMDOT said the projects would be reported to the legislature annually, selected using crash data, asset management, and project readiness, but bond approval would remain with the State Transportation Commission. After debate, Representative Romero moved do pass on SB 2 as amended, Representative Hochman-Vigil seconded, and the committee approved the bill 7-2, with Representatives Brown and Dow voting no and several members expressing reservations despite supporting the need for transportation investment.
FL
Transcript Highlights:
- High-school Democrats waives in opposition Michael Woods from West Palm Beach. >> You are recognized
Committee:
House Education & Employment Committee
WA
Washington 2025-2026 Regular Session
Senate State Government, Tribal Affairs & Elections Jan 23rd, 2026 at 10:30 am
State Government, Tribal Affairs & Elections
Transcript Highlights:
- So there were two Secretaries of State, one Republican, one Democrat, here, very clearly saying no fraud
Bills:
SB5973 , SB5892 , SB6081 , SB5842 , SB5827 , SB5968 , SB6034 , SB6035 , SB5888 , SB6123 , SB5853
Keywords:
initiative, referendum, ballot measure, petition, signature gathering, circulator, per-signature pay, paid circulator, election integrity, voter fraud, ballot title, Secretary of State, Code Reviser, direct democracy, citizen lawsuit, civil penalties, Washington elections, initiative process, referendum process, grassroots petition