Transcript Highlights:

• The drone replacement program ensures our state agencies and university system transitions away from
• Within state government, especially within the university system that we work closely with, there are
• I've never heard of a university having state sovereignty. Mr.
• Chairman, it's the university as a state entity that has sovereignty.
• I didn't know there was sovereignty among the state universities. I just didn't know that.

Summary: The committee first received a general fund and revenue update from the Office of Management and Budget. Staff reported that the state started the biennium about $176 million above prior estimates, but year-to-date revenues were now running below legislative forecast, mainly due to lower individual income tax and sales tax collections. The budget stabilization fund was above its cap, the legacy fund continued to grow, and oil revenues were slightly above forecast overall. Members also asked about federal funding uncertainty and mineral leasing variability, and OMB said agencies would be asked to address potential federal reductions case by case during budget preparation. The committee then reviewed compliance reports and trust fund analysis materials, followed by a bill draft for a fixed-route city transportation grant program. Testimony from transit officials in Fargo and Minot supported the proposal, saying state aid would help match federal transit funds and support operations, but members raised questions about the funding source, fare structures, and whether the program should be limited to the current four fixed-route cities or allow future eligible cities. Several members asked for more time to study the formula and possible funding options before moving the bill forward. Next, the committee approved a bill draft repealing obsolete language related to a proposed North Dakota-South Dakota bi-state authority. Staff explained the provision had been unused for about 30 years and that existing law likely already allowed joint powers agreements without the specific language. The committee voted to adopt the repeal bill draft. The Department of Commerce and the Northern Plains UAS Test Site then provided an update on uncrewed aircraft system initiatives, including the Vantis radar data enclave, the drone replacement program, and future revenue models. Officials said North Dakota had received FAA approval to operate the radar data pathfinder, had begun replacing non-compliant drones from restricted foreign sources, and was working on phased procurement and cost-recovery plans. Members asked about deadlines, funding, supply-chain issues, and how the system would be used; staff said the federal restrictions were already in effect and that Vantis was being positioned as infrastructure for future beyond-visual-line-of-sight operations. Finally, the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation presented on the design of a new minimum-security prison and on a reentry housing task force. The new facility is planned for the penitentiary grounds, with a reduced estimated cost of about $263 million, 600 beds initially, possible expansion to 732 beds, and completion projected around 2031 if funded in 2027. The reentry housing task force described a data-driven effort to identify housing needs for people leaving incarceration, with the goal of reducing homelessness and recidivism through targeted housing support and possible subsidies. Members asked about staffing, site selection, housing duration, and whether employment and transportation needs would be included in the assessment.

Transcript Highlights:

• I'm State Representative Carole Fiola. I'm State Representative Carole Fiola.
• I think our competition is more in our own country, state by state.
• Because I think we're competing in a 50-state world that we live in, in the United States of America,
• And by the way, this is the only state.
• The state to kind of advertise the state in a much better position than it is now.

Keywords: 995, all

Summary: The committee held a hearing on Governor Healey’s economic development proposal, H. 5386, also referred to as the Mass Winds Act, focused on global investment, talent, innovation, housing, and business competitiveness. Governor Healey, Secretary of Economic Development Eric Paley, and Secretary of Administration and Finance Matt Gorzkowicz described the bill as a response to federal uncertainty and global competition, building on the 2024 Mass Leads Act. They highlighted proposed investments in a Global Mass initiative, including a $50 million innovation access fund and $20 million for sites to help international companies locate or expand in Massachusetts, along with support for AI, quantum, robotics, defense innovation, climate tech, downtown revitalization, and creative/cultural economy projects. They also emphasized measures to lower business costs, including reducing the LLC filing fee, expanding the small business energy tax exemption, and streamlining housing and development rules. Committee members questioned the administration about non-compete reform, AI and data-center infrastructure, housing affordability, and whether the bill would help retain workers and companies in Massachusetts. The governor and secretaries argued that the non-compete changes would restore the original compromise by requiring any alternative to garden leave to be negotiated at separation, and they said the bill’s housing and workforce provisions are intended to help young workers stay in the state. They also said Massachusetts is already investing in AI training, an AI hub, and energy-related planning, while acknowledging that data-center growth will require careful attention to water, electricity, and ratepayer impacts. Several witnesses testified on specific sections. Northeastern University supported the internship tax credit, saying experiential learning helps students gain jobs and remain in Massachusetts. The Latino Empowerment Advisory Council supported the waiver of redundant English testing for internationally trained nurses, saying it would speed entry into the workforce without lowering clinical standards. Russell Beck opposed the non-compete changes, arguing they would undermine the 2018 compromise and could reduce other forms of employee compensation. The Secretary of the Commonwealth’s office opposed the LLC fee reduction, citing revenue loss and fraud concerns. Municipal and regional groups, including the MMA and the Metro Mayors Coalition, supported site plan review codification and downtown/arts investments, while urging continued municipal input. The AFL-CIO asked for trigger language to preserve labor protections if federal law changes, and business and industry witnesses generally supported the bill’s competitiveness and global investment provisions. No votes were taken; the hearing was informational, with written testimony invited after the meeting.

Transcript Highlights:

• </c><00:15:39.040><c> that</c> scattered throughout our state that scattered throughout our state that
• Each facility represents state.
• Just three years across the state.
• and jobs in the state.
• and jobs in the state.

Bills: HF1669, HF4709, HF3531, HF4048

Keywords: tax credits, sustainable aviation fuel, environmental policy, corporate franchise, Minnesota taxation, electricity generation, property tax exemption, renewable energy, incentives, economic development, fuel delivery, tax exemption, retail transactions, diesel exhaust fluid, fuel lubricants, healthcare tax, gross receipts tax, hospitals, chiropractors, healthcare providers

Transcript Highlights:

• What is needed is reform—reform of land use and zoning—and it's been done in other states, red states
• and blue states alike.
• So if it's happening in a red state or a blue state, you would think that in a purple state we can maybe
• . jobs that reflect our state.
• in states that are blue.

Transcript Highlights:

• These are state policies, not Donald Trump, not federal.
• These are state policies that you could actually fix.
• Let's come together in a bipartisan manner here in the State House and in Washington, D.C. to actually
• And they live in every single part of our state.
• Ireland and the United States through his leadership of the American Irish state legislators caucus,

Summary: The Assembly convened in Sacramento, established a quorum, and opened with prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance. After routine procedural motions, members voted to withdraw SB 106 from committee for third reading and to suspend the rules so AJR 25 could be taken up immediately. AJR 25, authored by Assembly Member Bonta, urged Congress to restore and extend enhanced Affordable Care Act premium tax credits that expired on January 1, with supporters arguing the lapse would sharply raise premiums for millions of Californians, including veterans, working families, and other vulnerable residents. Opponents, led by Assembly Member DeMaio, argued the resolution blamed federal action for California’s high health care costs and said state mandates and spending choices were the real problem. The resolution was adopted 58-4, and Assembly Member Addis was added as a joint author. The chamber also took up H.R. 76 on affordable homeownership, presented by Assembly Member Schultz and supported by Assembly Member Wicks, who emphasized the importance of homeownership for wealth-building and noted ongoing efforts to expand programs such as CalHome. H.R. 79, by Assembly Member Valencia, recognized February 2026 as Unclaimed Property Month; supporters highlighted the large amount of unclaimed property held by the state and encouraged residents to search for funds owed to them. Both resolutions received broad support, with co-author rolls opened before final adoption. The second-day consent calendar, including ACR 127 on National School Counseling Week, was adopted 64-0. Members also heard a lengthy adjournment in memory from Assembly Member Soria honoring Pablo Rodriguez, a Central Valley organizer and civic leader remembered for his work with United Farm Workers, Communities for a New California, and AB 1441 on the Merced County Independent Redistricting Commission. The Assembly observed a moment of silence for Rodriguez, welcomed his family and colleagues, and then adjourned until Monday, February 9, at 1 p.m.

Transcript Highlights:

• We have the 6A State Basketball Champions.
• There are 150 young ladies who deserve to go to Girls State.
• There are 150 young ladies who deserve to go to Girls State.
• The state can match if they choose to, is my understanding.
• And may God bless the great state of Arkansas. Thank you.

Summary: The House convened with prayer, recognized guests, and adopted consent-calendar resolutions before taking up House Resolution 1052 regarding Arkansas Girls State. Rep. Vaught explained that about 150 eligible girls were denied registration because a counselor missed the deadline, and said the House would instead host an “elite Girls State” program for them this summer. He then moved to withdraw the resolution, and the withdrawal was accepted. The chamber also presented a citation to Pastor Richard Hamlin for his service during the session. The House then considered several Senate appropriation bills. Senate Bills 3, 4, 7, 15, 21, and 31 all passed with broad support and emergency clauses. Senate Bill 77, an unfunded appropriation related to Arkansas Television Network/PBS matching funds, drew extended debate. Supporters said it would encourage private donations and could help with programming and infrastructure, while opponents argued the department had not requested the money and that the House should not force additional funding. The bill failed on the first vote, was brought back for a second vote after questions about the rules and the nature of the appropriation, and failed again. After the fiscal session business concluded, Rep. Meeks moved to adjourn sine die, and the House agreed. The House caucus then met to elect the Speaker-designate for the 96th General Assembly. The chamber suspended the formal election process by voice vote and unanimously elected Speaker Brian S. Evans as Speaker-designate. Evans thanked members, reflected on the 95th General Assembly, and pledged continued leadership and accountability.

Transcript Highlights:

• Thank you both for being here and for what you do for our state.
• Thank you very much for what you do for our state and countries.
• There are 150 young ladies who deserve to go to Girl State.
• There are 150 young ladies who deserve to go to Girl State.
• The state can match, if they choose to, is my understanding.

Keywords: 1204, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Okay, members, for those of you who are flummoxed by the state of democracy in the United States right
• The dairy industry is also an economic engine for our state.
• They have played shows across our state and the world.
• The state of California is stepping up with this bond.
• We are doing the right thing by the state.

Keywords: 988, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• I had presumed the whole time that this was something that originally came from the state of Washington
• We deal with ticketing issues from our customers in the state.
• I really would appreciate your support for our youth athletes across the state.
• United States federal government is going to come down hard and swift on this.
• My name's Lou Keely, and I'm a detransitioner from the state of California.

Summary: The Assembly Arts, Entertainment, Sports, and Tourism Committee met on April 8, 2025, and heard three bills. AB 666 would designate Bigfoot as California’s official state cryptid, with the author arguing it would recognize North Coast history and support local tourism; there was no support testimony, one opposition witness said the bill was a distraction from more serious issues, and the chair ultimately held the bill for lack of a motion. AB 1349 addressed speculative ticketing in the live entertainment market by requiring sellers to own or have a contractual right to tickets before listing them, along with disclosure, recordkeeping, anti-spoofing, and refund provisions. The author and supporters from music venues, artist groups, and sports organizations said the bill would protect fans and artists from deceptive resale practices and price gouging. Opponents from consumer and resale groups argued the measure was overbroad, could restrict legitimate resale and concierge services, and might favor primary ticketing monopolies. The committee members who spoke generally supported the consumer-protection goals, and the bill passed out of committee on a 7-0 vote, with two members not voting. AB 932 would require local education agencies that rent facilities to third-party youth sports clubs to provide gender-equitable access, closing what the author described as a loophole affecting girls’ club sports. Supporters, including the California Department of Education and youth sports advocates, said the bill would improve access for girls and address examples of unequal field and gym use. Opponents argued it could conflict with Title IX and raised broader objections to gender identity language in sports policy. The committee approved the bill on a 6-0 vote, with three members not voting, and sent it to Judiciary.

Transcript Highlights:

• I went to state. Did you go to state? I went to state. Did you go to state? I went to state.
• We went to state. State? What is state? Oh, you to state. State? What is state? Oh, you to state.
• and county in city in the in the state and county in city in the in the state and county in the state
• I'm talking about in the state in this state because about in the state in this state because about in
• Now, so state charter schools will have Now, so state charter schools will have Now, so state charter

Keywords: 1136, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Air Force before resigning in 1949 to go to law school at George Washington University.
• The reality is it follows best practices and what is commonly done from state to state.
• The land has funded this state.
• The land has funded this state.
• I love our state. I love our state.

Summary: The Senate opened with roll call, an invocation, pledges, and a series of announcements and guest introductions tied to several recognition days, including Disability Rights Awareness Day, Elevate the Spectrum Day, Geothermal Rising Legislative Day, DWI Awareness Day, and Adult Education and Literacy Day. Senators also welcomed guests for New Mexico Down Syndrome Day and other constituent visits, and the chamber read certificates recognizing the Hurley family and the New Mexico Military Museum, as well as adult education and literacy programs across the state. Testimony and remarks highlighted the service of the Hurley family, the importance of adult education for workforce and civic participation, and the contributions of people with disabilities and their families. The Senate adopted multiple committee reports and received House messages on several bills and resolutions. On third reading, the Senate passed Senate Bill 96, as amended, which streamlines child care licensing and reduces administrative barriers to opening or expanding child care homes and centers; an HOA-related floor amendment was adopted after discussion about local restrictions and neighborhood traffic concerns. The chamber then passed Senate Bill 14, as amended, which expands the state’s health professional loan repayment program with $25 million in funding split between physicians and allied health professionals/nurses, with questions focused on eligibility, prioritization, and whether the funding would be sufficient to address shortages. Senators also debated the bill’s support for part-time service and its role in helping New Mexico compete for medical workers. The Senate next passed Senate Bill 104 unanimously, establishing a process for removing a wildlife commissioner that requires gubernatorial initiation, notice and a hearing, and direct review by the state Supreme Court; debate centered on due process, the removal standard of incompetence, neglect of duty, or malfeasance, and how the new process compares with prior law. Finally, the chamber took up Senate Bill 50, which would give the Law Enforcement Training Standards Council more flexibility to set training curricula for officers, especially in rural departments; sponsors said the bill preserves minimum training while allowing updates for current issues, but several senators raised concerns that the measure could weaken explicit statutory requirements for domestic violence and sexual assault training and asked how those topics would remain protected in the future curriculum.

Transcript Highlights:

• We need more data to fully understand the state of diabetes-related amputations in our state. so that
• At the state level than we do as a state senate.
• law and state policy.
• universities.
• , bordering with states that have competitive universities and colleges.

Keywords: legislation, Senate Joint Resolution 40, Senate Bill 871, constitutional amendment, emergency powers, governor authority, legislative oversight

Summary: The meeting focused on several crucial pieces of legislation, notably Senate Joint Resolution 40, which proposed a constitutional amendment to clarify the powers of the governor, the legislature, and the Supreme Court during emergencies. Senator Birdwell presented the resolution, emphasizing the need for legislative involvement during prolonged crises. It garnered broad support, passing with 29 votes in favor and only 1 against. Following this, Senate Bill 871, considered the enabling legislation, was also moved for discussion, with the aim of reinforcing the legislature's authority during emergencies while establishing clear guidelines for the governor's powers.

Transcript Highlights:

• And of course, to be a great world state, there needs to be a great art museum, great university, and
• </c> across the state. across the state.
• Uh, we have the University of Hawaiʻi system in support. state finances as we make decisions state finances
• </c> our state monies. Thank you. Thank you. our state monies. Thank you. Thank you.
• ><c> that</c> States Constitution which states that States Constitution which states that private<03:

Keywords: 910, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• The State Fair is a big part of our state celebration and truly marks the end of the summer season and
• So this happens in our border states as well.
• Increase in state funds because of special ed funds.
• Article 7 is our state agency bill.
• in Washington.

Transcript Highlights:

• Thank you, Larry, for your service to the Michigan State Senate.
• So Maryland was the first state to take action.
• She is leaving because she's going to law school at George Washington University in Washington, D.C.
• Of Michigan and the State Senate. of Michigan and the State Senate. Thank you.
• The Single State Construction Code Act. The bill was discharged.

Keywords: 983, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• TAB ONE STB 70 14 BY APPROPRIATIONS COMMITTEE ON CRIMINAL AND JUSTICE RELATED TO TRUST FUNDS OF THE STATE
• SYSTEM. >> Chair Garcia: MEMBERS, STB 7014 TERMINATE THE MEDIATION ARBITRATION TRUST FUND WITHIN THE STATE
• ONE APPEARANCE FORM FROM SEAN, OFFICE A STATE COURT ADMINISTRATOR WAIVING IN SUPPORT.
• THIS IS HAPPENING IN MY AREA AND THROUGHOUT THE STATE.
• WASHINGTON AND COLORADO HAVE THE 5 NG WHICH WE DON'T AGREE WITH PER SE LOSS BUT WASHINGTON AND COLORADO

Keywords: 999, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• </c> 15 years so I'm very aware of the state 15 years so I'm very aware of the state revolving<00:08:
• Okay, Lori Wong, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, providing comments.
• Lori Wong, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, providing comments.
• University of Hawaiʻi System, Hilo, in support. Queen's?
• Kelly Woody, University of Hawaiʻi System, on Zoom, in support.

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The committee heard testimony on several bills related to cesspools, Red Hill cleanup, water testing, environmental governance, and beverage container recycling. For SB 472, SB 501, SB 675, and SB 958 on cesspools, most testimony supported accelerating cesspool conversion and expanding Department of Health capacity, though the Attorney General flagged a single-subject issue on SB 472 and the Department of Health and others raised concerns about funding, program structure, and coordination. Supporters emphasized cesspools as a major water pollution source and urged earlier deadlines, while some testimony questioned the tax credit approach and asked for clearer grant and staffing language. For SB 639 on underground storage tanks and Red Hill cleanup, the Department of Health asked for clearer cleanup standards and noted limits on laboratory detection and sampling, while supporters argued the bill would create a binding legal standard for remediation and help prevent reopening of the facility. Testimony also stressed the need to remove all contamination to the extent practicable and protect aquifers and drinking water. SB 664 on water quality testing drew strong support from residents and water advocates, but the Department of Health warned the measure could duplicate existing authority and create significant cost; the Board of Water Supply supported the concept while noting it would expand responsibilities into private-property testing. SB 674 on environmental advisory council and waste reduction received mixed testimony: supporters said it would help address landfill siting and protect water resources, while industry groups requested changes to advisory council membership and exemptions for certain products, and one witness opposed the measure. For SB 1067 on deposit beverage container recycling, the Attorney General said the grant language may be constitutionally problematic because it lacks standards, while industry testimony both supported the recycling goals and asked for amendments, including broader representation on the advisory council and clearer treatment of compostable and packaging-related issues. No votes or final committee actions were taken in the portion provided.

Transcript Highlights:

• Several of our competitor states already permit this kind of parallel licensure.
• The Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from Washington County, Senator Bartolotta.
• The Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from Washington County, Senator Bartolotta. Thank you, Mr.
• Lutz; State Board of Osteopathic Medicine: Joseph M. Zawizza.
• here in the United States of America.

Summary: The Senate convened with prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, received committee reports, and approved the prior day’s journal by a 50-0 vote. Several members were granted leaves of absence, and the chamber also took up a number of procedural motions, including re-referring Senate Bill 1212 to Appropriations and moving Senate Bill 911 from the table to the calendar. The Senate later recessed for committee meetings and party caucuses, then reconvened to continue floor action. On the calendar, Senate Bill 1206 passed 50-0 after supporters said it would help Pennsylvania’s life sciences industry by allowing manufacturers to pursue state licensure while federal FDA approval is pending, without weakening safety standards. Senate Bill 1273 passed 48-2; its sponsor said it would clarify that turnpike automated plate-reading data may be shared with investigators in missing or endangered persons cases, including Amber Alerts. Several other bills were either agreed to and re-referred to Appropriations or ordered over in their place, including House Bill 681, Senate Bills 1061, 1303, and 1355, and House Bill 1505 and 1667. The Senate also considered Senate Resolution 326, where an amendment by Senator Mastriano was adopted and the resolution was then held over as amended. In executive session, the chamber returned several nominations to the governor, then confirmed a slate of gubernatorial nominations, including appointments to the Pennsylvania Drug, Device, and Cosmetic Board, the State Board of Osteopathic Medicine, and several Pennsylvania Army National Guard promotions, by a 50-0 vote. The Senate additionally approved committee-reported bills from Appropriations and Health and Human Services, and signed House Bill 1344 in the presence of the Senate. During petitions and remonstrances, Senator Tartaglione urged action on minimum wage legislation, noting Pennsylvania has not raised the wage since 2006 and pointing to House Bill 2189. Senator Dush delivered extended remarks on the nation’s founding and the religious views of Benjamin Franklin. The Senate then adopted a motion to recess until June 25, 2026, at 9:30 a.m., unless recalled sooner.

Transcript Highlights:

• women who seek to do of these men and women who seek to do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly as our state
• Thank you for their commitment, sacrifice, and hard work on behalf of the people of the state of Maryland
• He is originally a Connecticut native and graduate of my alma mater, also Northwestern University, where
• he served for 11 years in student he served for 11 years in student ministry in Baltimore, Washington
• </c> mortician in the state of Maryland. mortician in the state of Maryland.

Keywords: Senate streaming session for Monday, February 23, 2026, 960, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• fewer students than those three states combined.
• walking the halls of Washington, D.C.
• Take a look at our neighboring states.
• typical cost of a state question?
• from the state of Oklahoma in one form or another.

Keywords: 914, all