Transcript Highlights:

• Reports of committees: Judicial reports—H.R. 245 favorably, SCR 30 favorably, SCR 40 favorably, and Senate
• Reports of committees: Judicial reports—H.R. 245 favorably, SCR 30 favorably, SCR 40 favorably, and Senate
• necessary treatment of SCN2A-associated medical conditions, and provide for medical necessity determinations

Bills: HR308, HR309, HR310, HR311, HR312, HR313, HR314, HR315, HR316, HR317, HR318, HR319, HR295, HR296, HR297, HR298, HR299, HR300, HR301, HR302, HR303, HR304, HR305, HR306, HR307, HCR115, HCR116, HCR117, SCR71, SCR72, SCR73, HR73, HR118, HR144, HR196, HR237, HR249, HR260, HR267, HR272, HR273, HR276, HR278, HCR85, HCR100, HCR105, HCR107, HCR113, HCR114, SCR5, SCR29, SCR33, SCR37, SCR63, HB255, HB378, HB509, HB1090, SB80, SB131, SB143, SB251, SB254, SB279, SB367, SB384, SB388, SB389, SB398, SB408, SB431, SB468, SB469, SB496, SB25, SB132, SB155, SB157, SB202, SB295, SB433, HR179, HR223, HR225, HR274, HCR89, HR252, HR253, HCR96, HCR103, HCR108, HCR26, HB250, HB265, HB339, HB427, HB445, HB463, HB468, HB606, HB639, HB649, HB665, HB746, HB781, HB853, HB861, HB872, HB886, HB916, HB937, HB1054, HB1068, HB1117, HB1237, HB74, HB108, HB956, HB1085, HB1137, HB62, HB193, HB210, HB220, HB246, HB364, HB420, HB475, HB584, HB622, HB772, HB784, HB949, HB953, HB1043, HB1070, HB1092, HB1134, HB1162, HB1176, HB1196, HB1214, HB1199, SB268, SB283, HB782, SB149, HR84, HB646, HB998, SB56, SB163, SB197, SB97, SB326, SB341, SB518, SB123, SB353, SB479, SB495, HB901, HR20, HR74, HR168, HCR65, HCR71, HCR98, HB284, HB302, HB306, HB341, HB366, HB393, HB458, HB577, HB603, HB605, HB614, HB625, HB733, HB752, HB773, HB798, HB911, HB955, HB996, HB1035, HB1069, HB1113, HB1140, HB1180, HB1191, HB1240, HB1255, SB82, SB89, HB134, HB258, HB359, SB29, SB42, SB43, SB217, SB274, SB300, SB379, SB382, SB441, SB449

Keywords: HR 308, House Resolution 308, Pope Leo XIV, Catholic Church, Holy See, Vatican, commendation, resolution, Louisiana Catholic heritage, St. Louis Cathedral, New Orleans, South Louisiana parishes, religious recognition, ceremonial resolution, faith leadership, pontificate, spiritual solidarity, human dignity, peace, mercy

Summary: The House convened with prayer, pledge, and a quorum, then spent much of the day on recognitions and commemorative resolutions. Members honored coach Jeffrey Craig Whittington, tourism and the Louisiana Oil Makers Association, Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, the Tangipahoa Parish Fair, Washington Parish festivals, ACOG’s 75th anniversary, Louisiana Tech women’s basketball, and Memorial Day. A major Memorial Day presentation commended Lane Frenchy Boudreau for helping recover the body of Army Sgt. First Class James H. Moore in Vietnam; the House observed a moment of silence and presented a flag to Moore’s family. The chamber also received Senate messages, enrolled bills, and committee reports, and introduced several new resolutions on topics including Pope Leo XIV, orphan wells, scenic rivers, Teche water quality, and the LaMelle family’s pilgrimage to Rome. The House then took up numerous resolutions and bills, often adopting them without objection. Among the measures adopted or advanced were studies on neighborhood crime prevention districts, parish solid waste and disaster resiliency in Washington Parish, the Louisiana Climate Action Plan, the Louisiana Maneuvers museum/trail, cash-rounding practices after penny production ends, residential construction costs and inspection practices, roundabout education, Taiwan relations, TSA worker loan assistance in Shreveport, human growth and development standards, and the state income tax credit for water utility customers. The chamber also adopted or concurred in several Senate amendments on bills dealing with financial disclosure, video voyeurism, personal information protections, online child safety, STEM advisory council changes, dual enrollment tuition, fleet vehicle registration, menhaden fishing rules, recording fees, amusement ride insurance, drone footage authentication, garbage and trash contracts, insurance prescription periods, retirement system changes, juror qualifications, fireworks, inspection stickers, employment discrimination, and inactive boards and commissions. Several measures drew discussion or division. H.B. 1199, requiring coverage for genetic testing and treatment for SCN2A-associated disorders, passed 94-0 after being discharged from Appropriations. H.B. 302, which would prohibit vape sales within 300 feet of schools, passed 86-4. H.B. 84, encouraging an interest-free loan program for TSA workers at Shreveport Regional Airport, passed 64-27. H.B. 1054 on self-authentication of law enforcement drone footage passed 78-12, and H.B. 1137 limiting employment discrimination protections to state employees passed 71-23. The House rejected Senate amendments on H.B. 468 (residential real property wholesaling), H.B. 1117 (insurance contractual payments and prescriptive periods), H.B. 956 (fireworks dates), and H.B. 74 (Spectrum Alert for missing children with autism), while concurring in or adopting amendments on many other bills. The session ended amid continued consideration of Senate Bill 56 on the West Bank/Lafitte levee governance structure, including an adopted amendment to ensure Lafitte-area representation on the board, with extended remarks about the history and accomplishments of the existing levee authority.

Transcript Highlights:

• compensation as well as judicial transparency, accountability, judicial compensation as well as judicial
• As an organization, 100% fully behind increase in judicial pay.
• On the bill, just so I can be consistent as a judicial officer.
• I can be consistent as a judicial officer.
• These are not objective determinations.

Bills: HB40

Keywords: law enforcement, sheriffs, constables, contracts, county authority

Summary: The Committee on Judiciary and Civil Jurisprudence met to hear House Bill 1761, a broad judicial package focused on increasing judicial compensation and adding accountability and efficiency measures. The chair explained that HB 1707 and HB 2100 were withdrawn from the agenda, and that HB 1761 would be taken up first because many judges and stakeholders were present. The committee substitute for HB 1761 proposed a 30% increase in base judicial pay to $182,000, changes to judicial retirement linkage, stronger judicial conduct provisions, and efficiency measures such as targeted reporting for judges not meeting benchmarks, appellate in-person meeting encouragement, and time limits on certain motions. The chair and several supporters said judicial pay had reached “emergency status,” citing Texas’s low national ranking and difficulty recruiting and retaining qualified judges. Witnesses in support included presiding and district judges, the State Bar’s judicial section, business and trial lawyer groups, and prosecutors. They emphasized that many judges work long hours off the bench, handle warrants at night and on weekends, manage heavy dockets, and face recruitment problems in both urban and rural counties. Supporters also said higher pay would help attract experienced lawyers, retain judges, and improve court efficiency. Several witnesses and members discussed judicial accountability, including public reporting of court performance and the role of the Texas Supreme Court and presiding judges in setting benchmarks. Some members raised concerns that raw statistics can be misleading because judges also do substantial off-the-bench work and often help cover other courts’ dockets. There was also testimony and discussion about the bill’s conduct and discipline provisions. A representative of the Texas Civil Rights Project opposed parts of the bill that would tie pay raises to changes affecting judicial independence, warning about subjective bail-related discipline standards and possible chilling effects. The executive director of the State Commission on Judicial Conduct cautioned against civil penalties for complainants, saying it could discourage good-faith complaints and create litigation risks. Other witnesses supported accountability reforms but urged caution about unintended consequences, especially for family and emergency cases and for judges handling warrants and other time-sensitive matters. After testimony, the committee withdrew the committee substitute and left HB 1761 pending, then recessed the committee.

Transcript Highlights:

• the time The court is required to consider the age of the offender at the time of the crime in determining
• services provided at facilities providing housing temporary residents for individuals referred by judicial
• residential substance use treatment services provided by facilities that house individuals referred by judicial
• applications for probation; commutation of sentence; provides for exception, sentencing, departing, determining

Bills: HR295, HR296, HR297, HR298, HR299, HR300, HR301, HR302, HR303, HR304, HR305, HR306, HR307, HCR115, HCR116, HCR117, HR286, HR287, HR288, HR290, HR291, HR292, HR293, HR294, SCR61, SCR68, SB121, SB250, SB348, SB444, SB485, HR252, HR253, HCR96, HCR103, HCR108, SB268, SB283, SB414, HCR98, HR179, HR223, HR225, HR274, HCR89, HCR26, HB250, HB265, HB339, HB427, HB445, HB463, HB468, HB606, HB639, HB649, HB665, HB746, HB781, HB853, HB861, HB872, HB886, HB916, HB937, HB1054, HB1068, HB1117, HB1237, HB74, HB108, HB956, HB1085, HB1137, HB75, SB39, SB99, SB111, SB112, SB124, SB134, SB174, SB189, SB190, SB201, SB233, SB236, SB258, SB270, SB273, SB288, SB307, SB313, SB320, SB321, SB325, SB326, SB331, SB339, SB341, SB345, SB346, SB347, SB353, SB357, SB359, SB387, SB393, SB401, SB415, SB419, SB422, SB426, SB435, SB437, SB440, SB451, SB464, SB470, SB487, SB488, SB495, SB504, SB505, SB518, SB523, HR84, HB646, HB998, HB1191, SB78, SB81, SB97, SB100, SB109, SB123, SB125, SB208, SB385, SB479, SB56, SB163, SB197, HB901, HR20, HR74, HR168, HCR65, HCR71, HB284, HB302, HB306, HB341, HB366, HB393, HB458, HB577, HB603, HB605, HB614, HB625, HB733, HB752, HB773, HB798, HB911, HB955, HB996, HB1035, HB1069, HB1113, HB1140, HB1180, HB1240, HB1255, SB82, SB89, HB134, HB258, HB359, HB782, SB29, SB42, SB43, SB149, SB382, SB441

Keywords: Energy Caucus, Louisiana House of Representatives, energy policy, fossil fuels, oil and gas, natural gas, renewable energy, solar, wind power, nuclear power, legislative caucus, industry group, economic development, state legislature, House resolution, energy sector, victims' services, criminal justice, Department of Public Safety and Corrections, Act No. 370

Transcript Highlights:

• the time... ...is required to do is consider the age of the offender at the time of the crime in determining
• treatment services provided at facilities providing housing for temporary residents referred by judicial
• residential substance use treatment services provided by facilities that house individuals referred by judicial
• assault; applications for probation; commutation of sentence; exceptions; sentencing; departing; determining

Bills: HR295, HR296, HR297, HR298, HR299, HR300, HR301, HR302, HR303, HR304, HR305, HR306, HR307, HCR115, HCR116, HCR117, HR286, HR287, HR288, HR290, HR291, HR292, HR293, HR294, SCR61, SCR68, SB121, SB250, SB348, SB444, SB485, HR252, HR253, HCR96, HCR103, HCR108, SB268, SB283, SB414, HCR98, HR179, HR223, HR225, HR274, HCR89, HCR26, HB250, HB265, HB339, HB427, HB445, HB463, HB468, HB606, HB639, HB649, HB665, HB746, HB781, HB853, HB861, HB872, HB886, HB916, HB937, HB1054, HB1068, HB1117, HB1237, HB74, HB108, HB956, HB1085, HB1137, HB75, SB39, SB99, SB111, SB112, SB124, SB134, SB174, SB189, SB190, SB201, SB233, SB236, SB258, SB270, SB273, SB288, SB307, SB313, SB320, SB321, SB325, SB326, SB331, SB339, SB341, SB345, SB346, SB347, SB353, SB357, SB359, SB387, SB393, SB401, SB415, SB419, SB422, SB426, SB435, SB437, SB440, SB451, SB464, SB470, SB487, SB488, SB495, SB504, SB505, SB518, SB523, HR84, HB646, HB998, HB1191, SB78, SB81, SB97, SB100, SB109, SB123, SB125, SB208, SB385, SB479, SB56, SB163, SB197, HB901, HR20, HR74, HR168, HCR65, HCR71, HB284, HB302, HB306, HB341, HB366, HB393, HB458, HB577, HB603, HB605, HB614, HB625, HB733, HB752, HB773, HB798, HB911, HB955, HB996, HB1035, HB1069, HB1113, HB1140, HB1180, HB1240, HB1255, SB82, SB89, HB134, HB258, HB359, HB782, SB29, SB42, SB43, SB149, SB382, SB441

Keywords: Energy Caucus, Louisiana House of Representatives, energy policy, fossil fuels, oil and gas, natural gas, renewable energy, solar, wind power, nuclear power, legislative caucus, industry group, economic development, state legislature, House resolution, energy sector, victims' services, criminal justice, Department of Public Safety and Corrections, Act No. 370

Summary: The House met on May 18, 2026, with a quorum present, and began with prayer, the pledge, leave requests, and several personal privileges recognizing visitors and groups at the Capitol, including early education advocates, a poster contest winner, Entergy’s River Bend Nuclear Station on its 40th anniversary, a Children’s Miracle Network champion, Community Action leaders, and Leadership Tangipahoa participants. The chamber also received Senate messages, enrollment reports, a conference committee report on Senate Bill 149 that was allowed to lie over, and a long list of House resolutions and Senate bills that were either introduced, referred, or set aside for later consideration. Several resolutions were adopted without objection, including measures recognizing Early Education Day, World Preeclampsia Awareness Day, Dora’s Voyager, Tourism Day, and National Mississippi River Day, while House Concurrent Resolution 98 on SNAP grocery delivery fees failed on reconsideration by a vote of 46 yeas to 39 nays. The House then took up a series of Senate bills. Among the measures passed were SB 39 on provisional massage therapist licenses; SB 111 on freshwater recreational fish limits in the Atchafalaya Basin; SB 124 on peer review confidentiality for health systems; SB 134 on child sexual abuse material and sexting involving minors under 17; SB 99 on electronic DEQ notifications; SB 190 on special-focus nursing facilities; SB 201 on juvenile life-without-parole sentencing procedures; SB 233 on a statewide data exchange compact; SB 236 on annual kidney disease reporting; SB 258 on juvenile traffic offenses; SB 270 on medical marijuana use by terminally ill patients in health care facilities; SB 273 on hospice care requirements; SB 307 on educational displays and a Ten Commandments monument on Capitol grounds; SB 320 on CODIS hit tracking; SB 321 on electronic bonds; SB 325 on excluding threatening persons from sports wagering; SB 331 on temporary exceptions to the Scenic Rivers Act for lower Pearl River Basin work; SB 339 on gaming-related background checks; SB 345 on annual OJJ reporting; SB 346 and SB 347 on deepfake misuse in schools and on campuses; SB 357 on judiciary cleanup provisions; SB 359 on hospital district commissioner terms; SB 387 on pharmacy benefit managers; SB 393 on explosives regulation; SB 401 creating a Prescription Drug Affordability Board; SB 415 creating the Empower Louisiana Food Purchase Program; SB 419 on pre-charged pneumatic devices for deer hunting; SB 422 on unsupervised probation for certain repeat DWI offenders; SB 426 on the Addictive Disorder Regulatory Authority and peer support credentials; SB 435 creating a Commission on Fatherhood Engagement; SB 437 on licensed treatment services in facilities housing judicially referred residents; SB 440 creating a Renaissance District in Rapides Parish; SB 451 on newborn hearing screening and intervention; SB 464 on severe obesity treatment coverage; SB 470 on pregnancy-related rules in correctional facilities; SB 487 on gaming premises rental agreements; and SB 488 creating a school safety drone response pilot program. Several bills were returned to the calendar for later action, including SB 189 on atmospheric releases affecting weather and climate, SB 326, SB 341, SB 353, and SB 495. A number of bills drew debate over policy and fiscal effects. SB 112 on school release time for religious instruction prompted questions about public-school participation, sponsoring entities, and parental consent; SB 189 on prohibiting intentional atmospheric release of substances for climate or weather modification passed 75-21 after questions about aircraft fuel dumping and agricultural exceptions; SB 201 on juvenile sentencing led to discussion of Supreme Court precedent and appellate review; SB 233 raised privacy concerns about interagency data sharing; SB 313 on electronic filing fees in criminal matters was criticized as a possible unfunded mandate and failed 25-68; and SB 451 on newborn hearing screening drew questions about board expansion, Medicaid coverage, and added administrative costs before passing 94-1. Most other bills passed with little or no opposition, and the House repeatedly adopted motions to table reconsideration after final passage votes. The chamber also announced it would stop debate at 5:00 p.m. and continued working through Senate bills as the Natural Resources Committee finished its meeting.

Transcript Highlights:

• hear budget proposals from the Judicial Branch and the Department of Justice.
• Francine Byrne, Director of Criminal Justice Services, Judicial Council.
• And it's important to note that Judicial Council did a study ...cases.
• The judicial department, the judge, is going to oversee it.
• I'm the Administrative Director of the Judicial Council.

Summary: The committee heard extensive testimony on Proposition 36 and its implementation, with judicial and budget officials describing it as a major shift from misdemeanor to felony processing for repeat drug possession and certain theft offenses. Witnesses explained that the law creates a treatment-mandated felony process that can lead to dismissal if a defendant completes treatment, but also requires evaluations, court monitoring, and potentially long, open-ended supervision. Judicial representatives said the new law is already generating large numbers of filings, creating workload, staffing, courtroom, and facility pressures, and that access to treatment beds, housing, and evaluation capacity is limiting participation. Several speakers emphasized that collaborative courts are effective but are not a perfect fit for Prop. 36 because those programs are typically probation-based and serve different risk/need populations. Court officials from San Bernardino and Orange counties said the impacts vary by county but are severe, with some counties seeing hundreds or more filings in a short period and others moving more slowly to build treatment infrastructure first. They argued that Prop. 36 is effectively an unfunded mandate unless the state provides more resources for judges, staff, facilities, treatment, housing, and supervision. The Legislative Analyst’s Office noted that Prop. 36 will reduce the Proposition 47 savings that fund mental health and substance use treatment grants, but said the near-term reduction is relatively modest and that the full effect will take time to appear because of the way those savings are calculated. Members of the committee repeatedly raised concerns that the state is underfunding the courts and counties needed to carry out the new law. The committee also reviewed the Governor’s proposed trial court operations budget, including a partial restoration of a prior $97 million cut and additional ongoing funding. Judicial branch officials said the restoration helped avoid furloughs, hiring freezes, and service reductions, and supported cybersecurity, technology, staffing, and records management. The LAO recommended that the Legislature seek more detail on how midyear restorations are handled and consider clarifying language for transferring unspent trial court trust fund monies to the General Fund. Finance said the flexibility in the ongoing funding was intentional and would be taken back for consideration. In a separate item, the committee heard testimony on a $6.3 million increase for Supreme Court and Courts of Appeal appointed counsel programs. Judicial officials and appellate project representatives said the system is facing a crisis because indigent appeals have risen sharply while the number of panel attorneys has fallen, leaving many cases waiting months for counsel. They argued the proposed increase would help but is still below what is needed to recruit and retain attorneys and prevent delays that affect criminal, juvenile, and child welfare cases. The committee also discussed the Tracy courthouse project in San Joaquin County, where local officials said reopening a courthouse closed since 2011 is necessary to serve a growing population and relieve overcrowding elsewhere. The LAO and Finance both noted the project is next in line under the facilities plan, though LAO suggested the Legislature could consider whether other facility priorities should come first.

Transcript Highlights:

• The compensation for the criers will be determined between the judges and the consolidated judicial expense
• Was this study ever intended to be used to determine what a judicial count was or what it should be?
• My question is very specific, because you're using that study as a basis to determine what judicial position
• So tell me, what do you point to in that study that says that it should be used to determine what judicial
• “Again, more than 36 other judicial districts, not 36 other judges, entire judicial districts.

Bills: HR265, HR266, HR267, HR268, HR269, HR270, HR271, HR272, HR273, HCR107, HCR108, HCR109, HCR110, HCR111, HR257, HR258, HR259, HR260, HR261, HR262, HR263, HCR105, HCR106, SCR30, SB57, SB157, SB202, SB237, SB276, SB450, SB465, SB501, SB525, HR3, HR80, HR197, HR243, SCR5, SCR35, HB4, HB623, HB944, HB986, HB1098, HB1222, SB34, SB164, SB172, SB198, SB208, SB232, SB281, SB286, SB317, SB322, SB334, SB380, SB385, SB409, SB417, SB421, SB430, SB439, SB447, SB458, SB510, SB398, HB646, HR84, HR188, HR205, SCR19, SCR3, SCR6, SCR18, SCR11, SCR22, SCR2, SCR20, SCR24, HCR6, HB301, HB359, HB657, HB675, HB680, HB727, HB302, HB819, HB1257, HB1258, SB8, SB10, SB11, SB12, SB13, SB14, SB16, SB17, SB18, SB20, SB21, SB22, SB40, SB48, SB55, SB69, SB75, SB77, SB78, SB85, SB102, SB115, SB133, SB140, SB148, SB151, SB165, SB169, SB170, SB185, SB197, SB200, SB217, SB235, SB278, SB280, SB291, SB300, SB303, SB315, SB324, SB330, SB411, SB416, SB420, SB436, SB438, SB449, SB455, SB456, SB477, SB489, SB521, SB45, SB58, SB71, SB81, SB92, SB100, SB109, SB141, SB156, SB181, SB203, SB204, SB205, SB207, SB213, SB214, SB216, SB229, SB257, SB274, SB290, SB304, SB374, SB379, SB396, SB410, SB425, SB427, SB429, SB479, SB522, HCR72, HB633, HB603, HB940, HB251, HB775, HB998, HB1191, HB625, HB1255, HB901, HR20, HR74, HCR65, HCR71, HB284, HB306, HB341, HB366, HB393, HB458, HB577, HB582, HB605, HB614, HB733, HB752, HB773, HB798, HB911, HB955, HB996, HB1035, HB1069, HB1113, HB1140, HB1180, HB1240, SB82, SB89, HB258, HB842, SB149, SB382, SB441

Keywords: Pineville High School, Lady Rebels, softball, LHSAA, Louisiana High School Athletic Association, Class 5A, state championship, high school sports, student athletes, commendation, resolution, athletics, girls softball, championship team, Pineville, school recognition, sportsmanship, coach Allison Frye, Louisiana legislature, House Resolution

Transcript Highlights:

• Turning to page 3, Item 1, judicial salary. Mr. Parr: Turning to page 3, Item 1, judicial salaries.
• CPAHA has determined the total.
• allegations of judicial misconduct against judges as well as judicial disability.
• of judicial misconduct against judges as well as judicial disability.
• of judicial misconduct against judges, as well as judicial disability.

Bills: SB 1

Keywords: campground safety, youth camp regulations, flood safety, emergency evacuation, health and safety standards, 1185, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Judicial oversight functions as an essential check on government power.
• Judicial oversight functions as an essential check on government power.
• The Constitution requires an independent judicial officer."
• The Constitution requires an independent judicial officer."
• And with independent judicial officer."

Keywords: 1183, house

Transcript Highlights:

• And what is a judicial officer? right. And what is a judicial officer?
• > the<00:14:52.600> judicial<00:14:53.040> judicial that encompass the judicial
• judicial that encompass the judicial judicial office?
• people to determine their impairment. people to determine their impairment.
• Uh Chair of Judicial Proceedings. Uh Chair of Judicial Proceedings.

Keywords: Senate streaming session for Friday, March 6, 2026, 960, senate, all

Summary: The Senate opened with an invocation by Pastor Jermaine Turner, followed by welcoming remarks for visiting students and a quorum call confirming the chamber was in session. The body then moved through introductions and began considering bills and messages, including a supplemental budget message from the Governor that was journalized and referred to Budget and Taxation for incorporation into the FY27 budget. The chamber also handled several committee reports and amendments, with multiple measures ordered printed for third reading after no objections. Among the notable committee actions, the Senate adopted amendments and advanced Senate Bill 538 on Baltimore City raffles for organizations affiliated with professional baseball and football teams, Senate Bill 108 on water resources and wetlands enforcement, Senate Bill 328 on property tax credits for disabled or fallen public safety and judicial officers, Senate Bill 587 funding the Maryland Patient Safety Center Fund, Senate Bill 765 on property tax sales heir protection and tax credits, and Senate Bill 767 on property tax credits for commercial buildings rented to small businesses. The chamber also adopted favorable reports for Senate Bill 503 on the Growing Family Child Care Opportunities Program and Senate Bill 519 on delaying and studying the Earned Income Tax Credit Assistance Program. The Senate then took up third-reading votes on a series of bills, passing measures including Senate Bills 540, 544, 578, 581, 634, 638, 852, 897, 69, 177, 241, 323, 776, and 439. The final bill, Senate Bill 439 on employment discrimination related to fire and rescue public safety employees’ use of medical cannabis, prompted extended discussion about off-duty cannabis use, impairment, and the difference between prescribed opioids and medical cannabis recommendations. The bill sponsor and other senators debated whether cannabis can be prescribed, the role of physicians, and the lack of a measurable standard for impairment, but the transcript ends before a final vote on that bill is shown.

Transcript Highlights:

• circuits, as well as the 21 juvenile detention who are working across all 20 judicial circuits, as well
• Commitment means that the court has determined that the department is going to be receiving custody of
• I mentioned our judicial structure.
• I'm in current talks with other folks that are in there, but to determine what we are...
• When that happens, a judge will determine if there is probable cause.

Summary: The Justice Budget Subcommittee met for an introductory overview of the justice budget and the major agencies within it. Chair Maney explained that the committee would hear broad presentations rather than detailed budget questions, and the first panel included the Department of Juvenile Justice, Department of Corrections, Commission on Offender Review, Department of Law Enforcement, Office of the State Courts Administrator, and the Attorney General’s Office. Each agency described its mission, staffing, budget, and major responsibilities, with repeated emphasis on public safety, rehabilitation, staffing shortages, technology needs, and the importance of mental health services and education in reducing recidivism. Secretary Hall described DJJ’s prevention-to-aftercare continuum, including civil citation, detention, probation, and residential commitment programs, and highlighted reductions in juvenile arrests and commitments. Secretary Dixon said DOC’s biggest issues are staffing, overtime, and inflation, while noting progress in education, reentry, and a low recidivism rate. FDLE Commissioner Glass outlined the agency’s investigative, forensic, intelligence, and protective functions, including work on fentanyl enforcement and crime reporting systems. The State Courts Administrator emphasized the judiciary’s constitutional role, case volume, and challenges in providing interpreters, experts, and technology support. Chief Deputy Attorney General Guard described the office’s litigation, criminal appeals, consumer protection, and opioid recovery work, especially defending state laws and recovering opioid settlement funds. Members then asked questions about prison conditions, immigration enforcement, court filing fees, crime reporting, staffing ratios, and transnational gangs. Agency leaders responded that they were not aware of ICE contracts in some cases, that FDLE works with immigration authorities and detention facilities under existing authority, and that filing fees are a legislative policy decision. The committee also heard from the Justice Administrative Commission, prosecutors, public defenders, guardian ad litem, regional conflict counsel, and capital collateral regional counsel, who focused on indigent representation, dependency and death penalty cases, and persistent staffing and retention problems. No votes were taken, and the meeting concluded after the presentations and questions.

Transcript Highlights:

• Ultimately, it's up to a jury to determine.
• This issue was under the auspices of the Judicial Branch's Judicial Management Council and was brought
• And I mentioned the Judicial Management Council.
• The next issue is managing judicial and court staff safety, and as you The next issue is managing judicial
• We do monitor that through our annual judicial needs application process to determine the extent to which

Summary: The committee first heard HB 133, which would lower the minimum age to purchase a long gun from 21 to 18. The sponsor said the bill restores the rights of law-abiding 18-year-olds. Public testimony was sharply divided, with supporters from Gun Owners of America and Florida Carry arguing that adults 18 and older should have equal Second Amendment rights and that current law is inconsistent with other adult responsibilities, while opponents, including gun violence prevention advocates, students, parents, and Parkland-related speakers, said the bill would reverse a post-Parkland safety measure and increase risks of suicide, accidental shootings, and school violence. Several members debated the bill, with opponents emphasizing Parkland, the Florida State shooting, and public polling showing broad opposition; supporters stressed parental responsibility, mental health, and constitutional rights. HB 133 was then reported favorably on a roll call vote of 13 yeas, with several members voting no. The committee then took up CS/HB 289, which would revise Florida’s wrongful death law to allow parents to recover damages for the death of an unborn child. The sponsor said the bill is intended to let grieving parents seek civil remedies, and members questioned how it would apply in situations involving surrogacy, rape, ectopic pregnancy, medical care, and damages calculations. The sponsor said the bill would not allow suits against the mother, would not apply to lawful non-negligent medical care, and would be handled through ordinary wrongful death damage proof before a jury. Public testimony was again split: supporters from pro-life and faith groups said the bill recognizes unborn children and aligns Florida with many other states, while opponents from civil liberties, reproductive rights, and advocacy groups warned it could be used to target abortion providers, helpers, and even families or businesses in miscarriage-related cases, and could be weaponized by abusive partners. The transcript ends during testimony on HB 289, with no final vote shown in the excerpt.

Transcript Highlights:

• judicial officer funded.
• We have our drug court judicial officers and we have our judicial officer, our public defender, our DA
• Theodorovic, Director of Budget Services, Judicial Council, long-term Judicial Service Council member
• I'm the Administrative Director of the Judicial Council.
• We are grateful to the Judicial Council for its support.

Keywords: 988, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• The compensation for the criers will be determined between the judges and the consolidated judicial expense
• Was this study ever intended to be used to determine what a judicial count was or what it should be?
• My question is very specific, because you're using that study as a basis to determine what judicial position
• So tell me, what do you point to in that study that says that it should be used to determine what judicial
• Again, more than 36 other judicial districts, not 36 other judges—entire judicial districts.

Bills: HR265, HR266, HR267, HR268, HR269, HR270, HR271, HR272, HR273, HCR107, HCR108, HCR109, HCR110, HCR111, HR257, HR258, HR259, HR260, HR261, HR262, HR263, HCR105, HCR106, SCR30, SB57, SB157, SB202, SB237, SB276, SB450, SB465, SB501, SB525, HR3, HR80, HR197, HR243, SCR5, SCR35, HB4, HB623, HB944, HB986, HB1098, HB1222, SB34, SB164, SB172, SB198, SB208, SB232, SB281, SB286, SB317, SB322, SB334, SB380, SB385, SB409, SB417, SB421, SB430, SB439, SB447, SB458, SB510, SB398, HB646, HR84, HR188, HR205, SCR19, SCR3, SCR6, SCR18, SCR11, SCR22, SCR2, SCR20, SCR24, HCR6, HB301, HB359, HB657, HB675, HB680, HB727, HB302, HB819, HB1257, HB1258, SB8, SB10, SB11, SB12, SB13, SB14, SB16, SB17, SB18, SB20, SB21, SB22, SB40, SB48, SB55, SB69, SB75, SB77, SB78, SB85, SB102, SB115, SB133, SB140, SB148, SB151, SB165, SB169, SB170, SB185, SB197, SB200, SB217, SB235, SB278, SB280, SB291, SB300, SB303, SB315, SB324, SB330, SB411, SB416, SB420, SB436, SB438, SB449, SB455, SB456, SB477, SB489, SB521, SB45, SB58, SB71, SB81, SB92, SB100, SB109, SB141, SB156, SB181, SB203, SB204, SB205, SB207, SB213, SB214, SB216, SB229, SB257, SB274, SB290, SB304, SB374, SB379, SB396, SB410, SB425, SB427, SB429, SB479, SB522, HCR72, HB633, HB603, HB940, HB251, HB775, HB998, HB1191, HB625, HB1255, HB901, HR20, HR74, HCR65, HCR71, HB284, HB306, HB341, HB366, HB393, HB458, HB577, HB582, HB605, HB614, HB733, HB752, HB773, HB798, HB911, HB955, HB996, HB1035, HB1069, HB1113, HB1140, HB1180, HB1240, SB82, SB89, HB258, HB842, SB149, SB382, SB441

Keywords: Pineville High School, Lady Rebels, softball, LHSAA, Louisiana High School Athletic Association, Class 5A, state championship, high school sports, student athletes, commendation, resolution, athletics, girls softball, championship team, Pineville, school recognition, sportsmanship, coach Allison Frye, Louisiana legislature, House Resolution

Summary: The House convened with prayer, the pledge, roll call, and several personal privileges recognizing visitors and special observances, including Transportation Day and a day without child care at the Capitol. Members also honored the Southern University Laboratory School track teams, early childhood educators, and later offered condolences and tributes, including a memorial resolution for Derek Butler’s family and birthday recognitions for members and staff. The chamber received Senate messages, committee reports, and introduced or adopted several resolutions and bills throughout the day. A major portion of the floor was devoted to retirement-system cleanup and funding bills, including Senate Bills 8, 10, 11, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18, 20, and 21. Members and authors explained these measures as technical changes to simplify contribution formulas, separate funding for COLAs and benefit increases from debt paydown, and update reemployment or benefit rules for retirees in various systems. Most of these bills passed with large margins after brief questions about whether they would affect automatic debt reduction; authors repeatedly said they would not stop debt paydown. Other measures passed on topics such as emergency vehicle procedures, international driving reciprocity with Ireland, seat belt use, port commission appointments, GOHSEP cybersecurity authority, storage facility rental rules, biomarker testing coverage, DNA sample collection procedures, and a law-institute bill on movable-property leases. The House also adopted HCR 72, the Jonas A. Feeley Act, which memorializes Congress to expedite research and treatment development for acute myeloid leukemia in honor of a deceased veteran, and H.B. 1258, which directs the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries on handling unlawfully possessed sick, injured, or orphaned wildlife. Another notable bill, Senate Bill 200, created a process for expropriating property tied to foreign adversaries near military bases, with amendments allowing voluntary divestment before expropriation. Most measures were adopted by wide margins, with co-author votes taken on some resolutions and bills tabled or returned to the calendar when requested. The most extended debate centered on Senate Bill 217, which would reduce the number of judges in Orleans Parish courts based on a statewide workload study. Supporters said the National Center for State Courts study showed Orleans had more judges than comparable parishes and that the bill would right-size the courts and save about $2.1 million. Opponents questioned the study’s methodology, the lack of Orleans delegation involvement, the counting of cases, the absence of uniform statewide clerk-of-court standards, and whether reducing criminal judges made sense given crime concerns. Despite the criticism, the bill was advanced after lengthy questioning, while the chamber continued to move other bills and resolutions forward.

Transcript Highlights:

• Related to judicial sales and procedures. Senator Garcia, good afternoon.
• It establishes clear, standardized procedures ...integrity in Florida's judicial sales process.
• Well, our investigation by our deputies determined that not to be the case.
• The Florida Bar assists the court in ensuring an efficient and effective judicial system.
• They act like grand juries to determine if further proceedings should be involved.

Summary: The Judiciary Committee met with a quorum present and Senator Thompson excused. The committee first considered Senate Bill 48 by Senator Garcia on judicial sales and procedures. Garcia explained a delete-all amendment that would create clearer statewide procedures for alternative judicial sales, increase transparency, remove bidding credits, extend sale timelines, and add oversight for auctioneers and escrow agents to prevent fraud and collusion. After no questions or opposition, the amendment was adopted, Senator Pasadoma said the rewrite addressed many of his concerns, and the committee then voted CS for SB 48 favorably with unanimous yes votes from members present. The committee then received a presentation from the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office on the effectiveness of Florida’s recent anti-squatting law, House Bill 621/SB 888. Presenters described several cases in which deputies used the new process to remove unlawful occupants, including a false landlord report, a long-term fake lease situation, and a more recent unlawful occupancy case. They said the law has helped protect property owners and potential victims, but suggested technical changes: clearer authorization for deputies to enter and use force if needed, and a fix to the affidavit penalty provision because false statements are currently being charged as false reports rather than perjury under the existing wording. The Florida Bar also presented on its role in regulating lawyers, lawyer advertising, and the unlicensed practice of law. Bar leaders explained that the Bar operates under the Florida Supreme Court’s authority, is funded by member fees, and handles complaints through a multi-step process involving intake, branch offices, grievance committees, referees, and final Supreme Court review. They described advertising review procedures, discipline statistics, consumer assistance, the Clients’ Security Fund, and enforcement against unlicensed practice. Senators asked about the Legislature’s authority over lawyer advertising, the prevalence of legal ads, the role of public members on grievance committees, and how those members are selected and used.

Transcript Highlights:

• > and<00:02:57.280> security So, judicial branch safety and security So, judicial branch
• . um the judicial is our top priority. um the judicial council,<00:03:01.599> our<00:03:01.840
• <00:10:31.760> branch's in support of the judicial branch's in support of the judicial branch's
• committee and the judicial branch. committee and the judicial branch. Thanks. Thanks. Thanks.
• <01:54:29.840> of assessors uh, makes a determination of assessors uh, makes a determination

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• The disability community exemplifies resilience, strength, and determination, and reminds us that anyone's

Bills: SR107, SCR53, SCR54, SCR55, SCR12, HB167, HB181, HB243, HB316, HB321, HB335, HB492, HB578, HB624, HB708, HB864, HB906, HB968, HB969, HB978, HB985, HB1005, HB1032, HB1077, HB1095, HB1104, HB1118, HB1157, HB1187, HB1189, HB1195, HB1198, HB1220, HB221, HCR58, SB283, SB338, SB488, SB520, HB90, HB127, HB138, HB150, HB201, HB268, HB273, HB285, HB315, HB354, HB355, HB360, HB376, HB445, HB506, HB606, HB649, HB665, HB681, HB721, HB746, HB757, HB781, HB835, HB844, HB857, HB872, HB886, HB889, HB892, HB972, HB982, HB987, HB1037, HB1068, HB1072, HB1078, HB1085, HB1132, HB1137, HB1167, HB1174, HB1232, HB1238, SB68, SB76, SB149, SB191, SB196, SB318, SB162, SB382, SCR33, SCR30, SB112, SB194, SB307, SB341, SB346, SB363, SB495, SB503, SB507, SB509, SB513, SB408, SB131, SB145, SB333, SB464, SB466, SB500, SB35, SB65, SB215, SB228, SB246, SB249, SB268, SB269, SB282, SB296, SB312, SB319, SB323, SB369, SB431, SB474, SB484, SB490, SB492, SB501, HCR14, HB537, HB652, HB653, HB661, HB726, HB756, HB851, HB964, HB966, HB34, HB35, HB48, HB474, HB553, HB758, HB852, HB10, HB16, HB36, HB44, HB46, HB52, HB61, HB78, HB98, HB102, HB124, HB126, HB131, HB135, HB141, HB142, HB164, HB170, HB171, HB179, HB194, HB231, HB245, HB280, HB292, HB294, HB297, HB305, HB336, HB337, HB351, HB436, HB594, HB789, HB956, HB957, HB995, HB1040, HB50, HB117, HB120, HB122, HB139, HB148, HB149, HB185, HB199, HB247, HB271, HB286, HB301, HB358, HB359, HB384, HB413, HB428, HB450, HB462, HB547, HB613, HB631, HB657, HB669, HB675, HB680, HB691, HB712, HB716, HB720, HB723, HB727, HB728, HB735, HB747, HB759, HB825, HB842, HB845, HB846, HB903, HB904, HB907, HB923, HB929, HB941, HB962, HB965, HB1036, HB287, HB370, HB515, HB521, HB570, HB1200, HB119, HB129, HB677, HB850

Keywords: condolence resolution, memorial resolution, tribute, sympathy, Joel Parker Sr., Louisiana Senate, rodeo, cowboy, horse trainer, stock and rodeo producer, black cowboy, African American history, community recognition, funeral resolution, celebration of life, Lottie Stampede Arena, Easter Sunday Rodeo, ranching, plantation work, faith community

Transcript Highlights:

• The disability community exemplifies resilience, strength, and determination, and reminds us that anyone's

Bills: SR107, SCR53, SCR54, SCR55, SCR12, HB167, HB181, HB243, HB316, HB321, HB335, HB492, HB578, HB624, HB708, HB864, HB906, HB968, HB969, HB978, HB985, HB1005, HB1032, HB1077, HB1095, HB1104, HB1118, HB1157, HB1187, HB1189, HB1195, HB1198, HB1220, HB221, HCR58, SB283, SB338, SB488, SB520, HB90, HB127, HB138, HB150, HB201, HB268, HB273, HB285, HB315, HB354, HB355, HB360, HB376, HB445, HB506, HB606, HB649, HB665, HB681, HB721, HB746, HB757, HB781, HB835, HB844, HB857, HB872, HB886, HB889, HB892, HB972, HB982, HB987, HB1037, HB1068, HB1072, HB1078, HB1085, HB1132, HB1137, HB1167, HB1174, HB1232, HB1238, SB68, SB76, SB149, SB191, SB196, SB318, SB162, SB382, SCR33, SCR30, SB112, SB194, SB307, SB341, SB346, SB363, SB495, SB503, SB507, SB509, SB513, SB408, SB131, SB145, SB333, SB464, SB466, SB500, SB35, SB65, SB215, SB228, SB246, SB249, SB268, SB269, SB282, SB296, SB312, SB319, SB323, SB369, SB431, SB474, SB484, SB490, SB492, SB501, HCR14, HB537, HB652, HB653, HB661, HB726, HB756, HB851, HB964, HB966, HB34, HB35, HB48, HB474, HB553, HB758, HB852, HB10, HB16, HB36, HB44, HB46, HB52, HB61, HB78, HB98, HB102, HB124, HB126, HB131, HB135, HB141, HB142, HB164, HB170, HB171, HB179, HB194, HB231, HB245, HB280, HB292, HB294, HB297, HB305, HB336, HB337, HB351, HB436, HB594, HB789, HB956, HB957, HB995, HB1040, HB50, HB117, HB120, HB122, HB139, HB148, HB149, HB185, HB199, HB247, HB271, HB286, HB301, HB358, HB359, HB384, HB413, HB428, HB450, HB462, HB547, HB613, HB631, HB657, HB669, HB675, HB680, HB691, HB712, HB716, HB720, HB723, HB727, HB728, HB735, HB747, HB759, HB825, HB842, HB845, HB846, HB903, HB904, HB907, HB923, HB929, HB941, HB962, HB965, HB1036, HB287, HB370, HB515, HB521, HB570, HB1200, HB119, HB129, HB677, HB850

Keywords: condolence resolution, memorial resolution, tribute, sympathy, Joel Parker Sr., Louisiana Senate, rodeo, cowboy, horse trainer, stock and rodeo producer, black cowboy, African American history, community recognition, funeral resolution, celebration of life, Lottie Stampede Arena, Easter Sunday Rodeo, ranching, plantation work, faith community

Summary: The Senate convened with a quorum, heard a guest minister’s prayer and pledge, and then proceeded through the journal, legislative bureau report, and a large number of bills and resolutions. Several Senate resolutions and concurrent resolutions were introduced or laid over, including measures recognizing individuals and events, commemorating the YMCA’s 175th anniversary, and creating or referring study and memorial resolutions. The House also sent over multiple bills, which were introduced and referred to the appropriate committees, covering topics such as court filings, travel reimbursement, public assistance integrity, pregnancy and baby care data protections, alcohol permits, capital-case intellectual disability procedures, and pharmacy benefit manager transparency. The chamber then considered House-returned Senate bills. SB 68, a constitutional amendment concerning Louisiana Supreme Court jurisdiction over attorney disciplinary matters, failed to receive the required votes on concurrence after a 24-10 vote, though the author gave notice. SB 76, dealing with child custody modification standards, was concurred in unanimously. SB 149, on general obligation bond bid requirements, had House amendments rejected and was sent to conference. SB 191, concerning ad valorem tax notice procedures, and SB 196, extending the appeal period for tax assessments, were both concurred in. SB 318, on publication of the tax exemption budget and local reporting, was also concurred in unanimously. The Senate also suspended the rules to recall HB 1017 from the Retirement Committee and recommit it to Judiciary A. During personal privilege remarks, members highlighted Disability Awareness Day, recognized a local award recipient, and provided an update and prayer request for Senator Selders following surgery. The meeting concluded with committee announcements and adjournment to reconvene the following day.

Transcript Highlights:

• Uh, so judicial pay. That's what I said last week is our top priority.
• Conduct, the Office of Court Administration of the Texas judicial system.
• The State Law Library, the Texas Judicial Council, the Judicial Branch Certification Commission, the
• Lavoie on the Judicial Selection Reform Commission.
• So how are y'all's number actually determined? Is that strictly internal?

Transcript Highlights:

• Friedman, in order relative to requesting the opinions of the Honorable Justices of the Supreme Judicial
• Now, therefore, be it ordered that the opinions of the Honorable Justices of the Supreme Judicial Court
• Two, does the petition relate to the powers of the courts, and insofar as it grants the judicial branch
• And now, therefore, be it ordered that the opinions of the Honorable Justices of the Supreme Judicial
• Two, does the petition relate to the powers of the courts, and insofar as it grants the judicial branch

Keywords: 995, all

Summary: The Senate began with ceremonial items, including the Pledge of Allegiance and a welcome to Tri-County High School’s championship football and boys’ cross-country teams. The chamber then adopted a resolution commending the town of Auburn and the Robert and Esther Goddard Centennial Committee for recognizing the 100th anniversary of the first liquid-fueled rocket launch. Several local bills were taken up and passed to be enacted, including measures authorizing payment by the City of Revere, adjusting the senior property tax deferral income threshold in Wellesley, amending the Hopedinton charter regarding library trustee appointment powers, and later engrossing bills affecting the Cotuit Fire District, the Salem licensing board, and validating Bourne’s May 20, 2025 annual election. The Senate also suspended Joint Rule 12 to refer House petitions to committees and, on committee recommendation, advanced two Cotuit Fire District bills to third reading and engrossment. A major portion of the session focused on two Senate orders seeking advisory opinions from the Supreme Judicial Court on pending initiative petitions. One order concerned a public records initiative that would extend public records law to the General Court and the Governor’s office; the other concerned a legislative stipends initiative that would alter internal legislative procedures and compensation rules. Senator Feeney spoke in support of both orders, saying they were meant to inform the committee’s work and were not votes on the merits of the ballot questions. Both orders were adopted without objection. The Senate also received a Ways and Means report on a bill banning the retail sale of dogs, cats, rabbits, and pet sharks, with a new draft and amendment pending, and adopted an order placing the bill on the Orders of the Day for second reading on March 19, 2026. The session concluded with an order to adjourn to Monday at 11 a.m., which was adopted, and the Senate adjourned.

Transcript Highlights:

• We have two one-county districts: the Second Judicial District in Ramsey and the Fourth Judicial District
• body for the judicial branch.
• District in Ramsey and the Judicial District in Ramsey and the Fourth<00:02:52.400> Judicial<
• court judges are elected by Judicial court judges are elected by Judicial District<00:03:19.879>
• assisted as I mentioned by a Judicial assisted as I mentioned by a Judicial District<00:04:57.560

Keywords: 1183, house

Summary: The House Judiciary Finance and Civil Law Committee heard a presentation from State Court Administrator Jeff Shorba on the Minnesota judicial branch’s 2026-27 budget request. He outlined the courts’ structure and workload, noting 322 judges, about 2,800 staff, roughly 1 million district court cases annually, and a current budget of about $479 million. Shorba emphasized the courts’ constitutional role, the fact that court fines and fees are deposited into the general fund rather than retained by the branch, and recent legislative investments that helped reduce pandemic-era backlogs, improve technology, sustain treatment courts, and raise interpreter and examiner pay. The budget request focused on several areas: a 6% judicial salary increase to address recruitment and retention problems, including a 15% rise in turnover and a 27% drop in applicants since 2020; funding for health care and office lease cost increases; digital accessibility compliance work required by new federal ADA rules; a modernized justice partner access system for court records; higher pay for forensic psychological examiners, whose workload has risen sharply; increased juror compensation from $20 to $100 per day and mileage adjustments; and ongoing funding for interpreters, jury services, and cybersecurity. Shorba said the total request would be a 12% increase over the FY 2026-27 base budget. Members asked follow-up questions about funding for newly launched treatment courts and how those courts are financed after federal grants expire. Shorba said he would provide more detail later and noted the branch generally starts treatment courts with federal funding before seeking state support. Representative Ric also asked about labor negotiations, and Shorba explained that the judicial branch negotiates its own contracts rather than using the executive branch, with three unions involved and many unrepresented employees. No votes or formal actions were taken during the discussion.