Video & Transcript : 'Saint Paul' :
Page 33 of 279
MN
Transcript Highlights:
- Paul complies with the requirements in section 645.021, subdivisions 2 and 3.
- Paul. Thank you so much.
- Paul. Chair Rest, senators, thank you for the opportunity to testify today.
- Paul complies with the requirements in section 645.021, subdivisions 2 and 3.
- Paul. Chair Rest, senators, thank you for the opportunity to testify today.
WA
Washington 2025-2026 Regular Session
House Postsecondary Education & Workforce Feb 24th, 2026
Transcript Highlights:
- Good afternoon, Chair Paul and members of the committee.
- Good afternoon, Chair Paul and members of the committee.
- Chair Paul, Vice Chair Sala, Houdin. in Good afternoon, Chair Paul, Vice Chair Saul Houdin, Ranking Member
- Good afternoon, Chair Paul and members of the committee.
- Gibbons, and hello, Chair Paul and members of the committee.
Summary:
The House Postsecondary Education & Workforce Committee held a public hearing on Senate Bill 6258, which would authorize the Washington Medical Commission to adopt rules allowing physicians and certain other licensees to voluntarily relinquish their licenses outside of a disciplinary process. Staff and the bill sponsor explained that the current system only allows relinquishment through a disciplinary or quasi-disciplinary path, which can trigger reporting to national databases even when there is no misconduct. Testimony from the Medical Commission and the Washington Physicians Health Program supported the bill as a non-disciplinary, permanent, and more dignified way for providers to exit practice while preserving patient safety by excluding those under investigation or discipline. The chair said the committee would executive the bill the next day and asked that amendments be submitted by 6 p.m. that day.
The committee then held a work session on part-time/adjunct faculty in the community and technical college system. State Board of Community and Technical Colleges staff described the system’s 34 colleges, the role of local bargaining, and the differences in duties and pay between full-time and part-time faculty. They noted that adjunct pay has historically lagged and cited a 2024 report estimating it would cost about $75.1 million to raise average adjunct compensation to 85% of full-time faculty pay. American Federation of Teachers Washington representatives and contingent faculty testified in support of HB 2538, arguing that contingent faculty are underpaid, often lack stable employment and compensation for work outside class time, and that higher pay would improve retention, student support, and equity. Members asked about bargaining structures, health benefits, workload, and comparisons to other faculty roles.
In executive session, the committee considered Substitute Senate Bill 5931, which makes administrative changes to the Workforce Education, Investment, Accountability, and Oversight Board, including removing a public dashboard requirement and adjusting election timing. The bill passed 14-1 and was reported out with a do-pass recommendation. The committee also approved Senate Bill 5963, which automatically makes Passport to Careers participants income-eligible for the Washington College Grant and aligns need calculations with the federal formula; it also directs Passport funds into the state financial aid account. That bill passed unanimously, 15-0, and was likewise reported out with a do-pass recommendation.
MA
Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session
Senate Session (Full Formal with Calendar) Jun 21st, 2026 at 12:00 pm
Massachusetts Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- Paul W. Mark. Joan B. Lovely. Paul W. Mark. Liz Miranda. Yes. Mark C. Montigny? Yes. Michael O.
- Paul R. Feeney? Yes. Dylan A. Fernandes. Yes. Barry R. Finegold. Cindy F. Friedman. Thank you.
- Paul W. Mark. You're trying to walk. Go check. Thank you. I'm trying to walk.
- Fattman, Paul Arfini, yes; Dylan A. Fernandes, Barry R. Finegold, Cindy F.
- Paul W. Mark, yes. Pavel M. Payano. Pavel M. Payano, yes.
Summary:
The Senate began with routine formalities, then took up several final-passage and engrossment matters. It adopted emergency preambles for House Bill 1590, establishing a sick leave bank for Eric J. Iwanek, and House Bill 1024, authorizing the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority to provide sewer service to a parcel in Sharon. The Senate also passed to be enacted Senate Bill 2528, allowing Marblehead to establish fines related to parking violations, and adopted a pair of congratulatory resolutions. Later, it ordered several House bills to third reading, including measures for an additional off-premises alcohol license in Somerset and sick leave banks for David A. Russell and Jean McCarran, and concurred in a gubernatorial amendment to a vital statistics bill.
The chamber then considered major committee reports and amendments on military and veterans issues. It advanced a Ways and Means substitute for a bill on free expression and a substitute for a bill on assault and battery upon a transit worker, placing both on the Orders of the Day. The Senate also debated and amended Senate Bill 2503, the EASE Act for military-connected families, with remarks emphasizing school stability for military children, special education continuity, juvenile justice transfers, and use of military protective orders in domestic violence cases. Several proposed amendments were withdrawn or rejected, including tax relief proposals for 100% disabled veterans, while an amendment requiring tracking of veteran suicides was adopted. The bill was then ordered to third reading and passed to be engrossed by roll call, 39-0.
Another major item was Senate Bill 2501, clarifying the duties of the adjutant general. The Senate adopted a Ways and Means substitute and considered multiple amendments, including one withdrawn proposal on entry by non-federalized armed forces from other jurisdictions and another adopted amendment requiring recruit training on lawful orders; other amendments were withdrawn. The bill was then ordered to third reading and passed to be engrossed. The Senate also passed House Bill 3388, designating September 22 as Military Service Members and Veterans Suicide Awareness and Remembrance Day. Throughout the session, members also offered and adopted several adjournment motions honoring the lives and service of Judge Leslie E. Harris, former Newton Mayor Seyi Warren, and Anthony P. Dwingnan, and the Senate adjourned to meet again the following Monday at 11:00 a.m.
MA
Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session
Senate Session (Full Formal with Calendar) Jun 21st, 2026 at 11:00 am
Massachusetts Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- Paul W. Mark. Yes. Thank you. Paul W. Mark? Yes. Patrick M. O'Connor? Yes. Jacob R. Oliveira. Yes.
- Paul R. Feeney. Yes. Dylan A. Fernandes. Yes. Barry R. Finegold. Cindy F. Friedman. Yes.
- Paul W. Mark. Liz Miranda. Yes. Yes. Barry R. Feingold. Cindy F. Friedman? Yes. Adam Gomez.
- Paul W. Mark. Liz Miranda. Yeah. Paul W. Mark. Liz Miranda? Yes. Yes. Mark C. Montigny? Yes. Yes.
- Paul W. Mark. Yes. Paul W. Mark? Patrick M. O'Connor? Yes. Jacob R. Oliveira? Michael J. Rodrigues.
Summary:
The Senate first handled a House petition from John H. Rawlers and others seeking eminent domain authority for a parcel in Norwood; Joint Rule 12 was suspended and the matter was referred to the Committee on State Administration and Regulatory Oversight. The chamber then resumed debate on the literacy bill, with Senator Tarr offering a series of amendments focused on school district funding, teacher competency, reporting, waivers, and curriculum implementation. Most of Tarr’s amendments were rejected, but one requiring written, appealable denials of district waivers was adopted by roll call, and another amendment on reporting from the Early Literacy Fund, including provisions for English language learners and special education educators, was also adopted. A separate amendment extending the timeline for DESE to publish high-quality curricula was adopted, while several other amendments were withdrawn or defeated.
The Senate also considered and adopted an amendment from Senator Comerford addressing rural and regional equity in education funding. That amendment expanded eligible uses of the Early Literacy Fund to include screening assessments, required DESE to prioritize geographic and funding equity, mandated a public hearing in Western Massachusetts before final grant criteria were finalized, and directed technical assistance to rural districts. Senators from across the chamber spoke in support, emphasizing chronic underfunding, declining enrollment, minimum-aid pressures, and the need for a broader review of the Chapter 70 formula and a Foundation Budget Review Commission. The amendment passed unanimously.
Later, the Senate took up an amendment from Senator Moore on children’s vision care, which would have created a registry for vision screening and expanded eye exam requirements, but it was withdrawn after supportive debate. The chamber then adopted the Ways and Means redraft, ordered the bill to third reading, and passed An Act relative to teacher preparation and student literacy to be engrossed by a unanimous roll call. Final passage was also achieved for a separate House land-taking bill allowing the town of Hingham to use municipal property for a center for active living, which passed by the required two-thirds vote and was enacted. The Senate then adopted an order to meet again the following Monday and adjourned in memory of Donna Goldstein.
ID
Transcript Highlights:
- But it's designed entirely to remind us of the real person, the real American hero, the famous Paul Revere
- Now, for Idaho Senators, Paul Revere stands as a call to wakefulness, to guard truth, defend justice,
- Lord God, we thank you for legacies and the legacy of Paul Revere and others, courageous and... ...for
- And dear Lord, just as Paul Revere sounded the alarm in the dark of night, may these our Idaho State
- And that's why we had Paul Revere here today, and that is his doing and his good work.
ID
Transcript Highlights:
- Now, for Idaho Senators, Paul Revere stands as a call to wakefulness, to guard truth, defend justice,
- Lord God, we thank you for legacies and the legacy of Paul Revere and others, courageous and swift in
- For legacies and the legacy of Paul Revere and others, courageous in action and swift to respond when
- And dear Lord, just as Paul Revere sounded the alarm in the dark of night, may these our Idaho State
- That is why we had Paul Revere here today, and that is his doing and his good work.
Summary:
The Senate convened with 29 members present and six excused absences, establishing a quorum. After the prayer and Pledge of Allegiance, the chamber approved the January 15 journal and received communications, including a Secretary of State notice listing registered lobbyists and a Governor’s report on the Emergency Fund. The report noted fund balances and expenditures related to a University of Idaho investigation and Operation Esto Perpetua, along with committed assistance for ICE operations.
In committee reports, the Judiciary and Rules Committee said Senate Bills 1221, 1222, and 1223 were correctly printed. SB 1221 was referred to Commerce and Human Resources, while SB 1222 and SB 1223 were referred to Resources and Environment. The Senate also advanced through the order of business to miscellaneous announcements.
During introductions and announcements, Senator Van Orden welcomed Cheryl Lambert, a constituent and vice chair of the Public Charter School Commission, and thanked the chaplain for incorporating the Idaho and America 250 program into Friday prayers. A capital security training session was announced for immediately after adjournment. The Senate then adopted a motion to adjourn until 10:30 a.m. Monday, January 19, 2026.
MA
Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session
250th Anniversary Celebration of the American Revolution Jun 21st, 2026 at 03:00 pm
Transcript Highlights:
- Paul Mark, I am here. Jeffrey Roy. Paul Mark, I'm here. Jeffrey Roy. Michael Kushmerek.
- Paul Feeney. Here. Michael Lawson. Yeah. Thank you. Suzanne Barry. Great. Suzanne Barry.
- You know, I was far, as Paul Feeney will tell you, I was part of the planning for the reenactment of
- This is Paul Feeney. I have a question about what's being planned for the Cambridge site.
- I'll send an email to Christine this afternoon, and I'll CC you, Paul, so you have that information,
Summary:
The Special Commission on the 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution met at Mass MoCA in North Adams, with members attending both in person and virtually. The meeting opened with a moment of remembrance for Senator Edward Kennedy, followed by roll call and informal approval to proceed. Co-chairs and members thanked the hosts and noted the importance of engaging western Massachusetts communities in the 250th planning.
The Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism gave an update on the Massachusetts 250 campaign, including a website listing more than 500 events and 250 attractions, an ongoing virtual Lunch and Learn series, and the Museums 250 program. The presenter also outlined several America 250 ideas for commission consideration: a nationwide-style community potluck on July 5, 2026; a coordinated reading of the Declaration of Independence on July 8, 2026; and possible state or national time capsule participation. Members expressed interest, especially in a Massachusetts-specific time capsule, and agreed to circulate the ideas for broader brainstorming.
Revolution 250 and Jonathan Lane reported on recent and upcoming commemorations, including follow-up from the Bunker Hill event, a planned 251st Battle of Gloucester event, and extensive planning for Knox Trail activities in January 2026. He highlighted meetings with Berkshire communities along the route, the need for a Knox marker in Sandisfield, and efforts to recognize and preserve a historic stretch of the Knox Road. He also noted proposed Declaration of Independence readings in several communities and a July 18, 2026 Watertown commemoration of the first treaty between Massachusetts and Indigenous peoples of Maine and Nova Scotia.
Dusty Meadows of Conventures then presented logistics for the Knox Trail commemoration, including branding, horse arrangements, route planning, plaque concepts, and budget needs. Members raised questions about the Cambridge/West Cambridge portion of the route and Arlington’s historical connection to that name; the presenters agreed to follow up and correct materials. The meeting ended informally after no further business was raised.
MN
Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session
Rep. Tim O’Driscoll departing member remarks 5/18/26
Minnesota House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- Paul. I remember earlier this year when we were guests of the St.
- Paul delegation over at the RiverCentre.
- we know, Colleen became the mayor of As we know, Colleen became the mayor of St.<00:07:00.360><c> Paul
- Paul. St. Paul.
- </c><00:07:04.640><c> Paul</c> we were guests of the St. Paul we were guests of the St.
CA
California 2025-2026 Regular Session
Senate Floor Session Mar 9th, 2026
California Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- I rise to adjourn in memory of Paul McAley, who passed away on February 3rd at the age of 92.
- Paul was Michaeli, who is joining us in the gallery today.
- Paul is survived by his wife of 61 years, Paul is survived by his wife of 61 years, Vima, his son, our
- Members, please join me in a journey in the memory of Chris McAley's father, Paul.
- Chris, while you have entrenched your Paul.
Summary:
The Senate convened with quorum, observed a moment of silence for Chief Warrant Officer 3 Robert M. Marzan, and heard a prayer and pledge. Senator Perez introduced representatives of the Pasadena Tournament of Roses, highlighting the organization’s community role and estimated economic impact from the Rose Parade and Rose Bowl. The chamber then approved the Senate journals and confirmed three gubernatorial appointments: C.N.R. Lomeli to the State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology, and C. Don Clay and Joshua Pertula to the University of California College of Law, San Francisco Board of Directors. All three confirmations passed by unanimous roll call votes.
The Senate adopted several resolutions. SCR 120 by Senator Grayson designated the first week of March as National Consumer Protection Week and March 5 as Slam the Scam Day, with support from Senators Choi and Becker emphasizing scam awareness, senior fraud, data broker concerns, and consumer education; it passed 36-0. Grayson also introduced law enforcement and Secret Service representatives involved in recovering a Pleasant Hill resident’s $350,000 lost to a cryptocurrency scam. SCR 126 by Senator Grove proclaimed March 9, 2026, as Special Olympics Day in California and passed 35-0, with remarks from Grayson about the organization’s impact and personal connection. SR 79 by Senator Nilo designated the week of March 8 as Sleep Health Awareness Week, focusing on the health risks of sleep deprivation and daylight saving time; it passed by unanimous roll call. SCR 135 by Senator Laird declared the first week of March as Peace Corps Week, with support from Senator Choi reflecting on Peace Corps service and its global impact; it also passed unanimously. SR 83 by Senator McNerney recognized March as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, stressing early screening and disparities in outcomes; it passed unanimously.
After the resolutions, McNerney introduced colorectal cancer advocates and survivors who were present in the chamber. The Senate then moved to adjournment in memory, with Majority Leader Ashby honoring Paul McAley, father of lobbyist Chris McAley, and Senator Rubio honoring Robert Uyoha of Chino, a Navy veteran and longtime community servant. The session concluded with notice that the Senate would reconvene on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at 9 a.m., with recess until 3:30 p.m. for the adjournment motion.
MA
Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session
Senate Session Jun 21st, 2026 at 11:00 am
Massachusetts Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- And Representative Smola, I would like to offer an adjournment in memory of Paul Holloway for all of
- Paul was the embodiment of compassion, dedication, and service.
- In addition to his commitment to the Holland Fire Department, Paul served full-time as an educator at
- All members, guests, and staff rise and join me in a moment of silence in memory of Paul Holloway.
- In memory of Paul Holloway, to meet again on Thursday next at 11 a.m. At 11 a.m.
Summary:
The Senate opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence for former Senator Ed Kennedy. Members then adopted an order to recess the joint session until Thursday, October 9, 2025, and approved a congratulatory resolution for People Incorporated’s new early education center. The chamber also took up two local bills, ordering both to a third reading and then passing them to be engrossed: House 2320, establishing an appointed treasurer-collector in Berkeley, and House 4136, further regulating stabilization funds in Leicester.
The Senate later held an adjournment in memory of Paul Holloway, with remarks honoring his service as a firefighter and educator in Holland and Palmer, followed by a moment of silence. The chamber also considered several matters on final passage, including bills related to the Gloucester Fisheries Commission and an additional liquor license in Maynard, and it advanced a House bill establishing a sick leave bank for Candy J. Pike of the Department of Developmental Services by ordering it to a third reading.
The Senate suspended Joint Rule 12 and referred a House petition to establish a sick leave bank for David A. Russell of the Department of Correction to the Committee on Public Service. Near the close, the Senate recognized National Faith in Blue Week and thanked law enforcement and faith-based communities. Members adopted an order to meet again the following Thursday at 11 a.m., dispense with printing a calendar, and then adjourned in memory of Paul Holloway.
MN
Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session
Legislative Commission on Pensions and Retirement - 03/17/26
Minnesota Senate Floor Meeting
MN
Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session
Committee on Jobs and Economic Development - 03/26/25
Jobs and Economic Development
Transcript Highlights:
- </c><00:24:56.480><c> And</c><00:24:56.720><c> I</c> Paul 8 Paul II Catholic School.
- And I Paul 8 Paul II Catholic School.
- Paul to expand the city's city of St.
- </c><00:59:08.480><c> Paul</c><00:59:08.720><c> public</c> PBC XLG St. Paul public PBC XLG St.
- Paul.
MA
Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session
Senate Session (Full Formal with Calendar) Jun 21st, 2026 at 11:00 am
Massachusetts Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- Paul R. Feeney. Dylan A. Fernandes. Barry R. Finegold. Cindy F. Friedman. Yes. Adam Gómez.
- Paul R. Feeney. Yes. Dylan A. Fernandes. Yes. Barry R. Finegold. Cindy F. Friedman. Yes.
- Senator Paul R. Feeney? No. Senator Dylan A. Fernandes? No. Senator Barry R. Finegold? No.
- Senator Paul W. Mark. Thank you. Senator Paul W. Mark. Senator Liz Miranda? No.
- Paul W. Mark. Yes. Jason M. Lewis. Yes. Yes. Paul W. Mark. Yes. Yes. Pavel M. Payano. Yes. Yes.
Summary:
The Senate first adopted three congratulatory resolutions recognizing the retirements of Dolores Hayes, Lisa Audet, and Kate Fitzpatrick. It then handled several procedural matters, including suspending Joint Rule 12 to refer a sick leave bank bill for a Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office employee to the Committee on Public Service and referring House petitions to their respective committees. The chamber also adopted a conference report on the joint rules for the 2025-2026 session after remarks from Senators Creem, Tarr, Lovely, and Fattman emphasizing transparency, public access, recorded votes, longer notice for hearings and conference reports, remote participation, and periodic review of the rules. The report was accepted by a 40-0 roll call.
The Senate then took up the bill strengthening health care protections in the Commonwealth, Senate No. 2538, commonly described as Shield Act 2.0. Senator Friedman and others argued the bill was needed to protect reproductive and gender-affirming care from out-of-state and federal interference, to limit disclosure of sensitive information, to create a state-level EMTALA-style protection for emergency care and active labor, and to strengthen privacy and licensing protections for providers and institutions. Senators Cyr, Lovely, and Fattman also spoke in support, framing the bill as a response to recent federal and state threats and as an extension of Massachusetts’ prior shield-law work.
The chamber considered numerous amendments. Several were rejected, including amendments by Senators Finegold and Keenan and multiple Tarr amendments on topics such as medical records, consistency with existing law, and public health data collection. Some amendments were adopted, including a Montigny amendment on health-connected data disclosure, a Brownsberger amendment further protecting privacy for reproductive and gender-affirming care, a Rauch amendment clarifying protections for patients in active labor, a Tarr amendment removing an exemption for data from personal tracking devices, and a Rodrigues corrective amendment. After the amendments, the Ways and Means substitute was adopted, the bill was ordered to a third reading, and it then passed to be engrossed by a 37-3 roll call.
At the end of the session, the Senate adopted a memorial adjournment in honor of former Senate Majority Leader Louis P. Bertinazi. The Governor also filed a message submitting a bill to build resilience for Massachusetts communities, authorizing future capital spending for energy and environmental affairs, which was referred to the Committee on Environment and Natural Resources. The Senate then adopted an order to meet again the following Monday at 1 p.m. and adjourned.
MN
MA
Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session
LGBT Aging Commission Jun 21st, 2026 at 11:00 am
Transcript Highlights:
- If I may, Adriana, it's Paul. Hi, I'm driving, but I can hear you.
- Thank you so much for lifting that up, Paul.
- I do want to just kind of add on to what Paul said about diversity.
- And Paul, if you can, I'm curious.
- Paul, I saw you on mute. Would you like to share as well? Yes.
Summary:
The Massachusetts Commission on LGBTQ Aging opened its March quarterly meeting by welcoming Alison Bauer as its first full-time director, effective March 30. Bauer briefly introduced her background in law, social work, public health, state government, philanthropy, and teaching, and said she planned to meet one-on-one with each commissioner. The commission then approved the December quarterly meeting minutes by motion and vote.
The main portion of the meeting was a workshop led by Adriana Boulin on diversity, equity, inclusion, power, belonging, and intersectionality. Boulin defined key terms, guided participants through reflection exercises on personal values and conditions that support or undermine power, and discussed the history of intersectionality. Commissioners and guests shared examples of DEI work, including listening sessions, inclusive trainings, equitable hiring, LGBTQ+ aging advocacy, and community programs. Participants also reflected on how the commission has felt powerful, citing the strategic plan, the hiring of an executive director, the website, listening sessions, and passage of the LGBTQI+ and HIV long-term care bill of rights.
The group then focused on how to apply an equity lens to the commission’s strategic priorities, especially improving representation and inclusion. Commissioners discussed the need for more racial, ethnic, trans, immigrant, and other marginalized representation, as well as barriers such as recruitment challenges, the size of the commission, and CORI/background-check concerns for some governor-appointed seats. They also explored whether an advisory board or expanded outreach to community organizations could help broaden participation. No formal votes or final actions were taken beyond approving the minutes, but the meeting ended with agreement to continue the equity work and with the next quarterly meeting scheduled for June.
MN
Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session
Plastic bottle excise tax proposed 3/10/26
Minnesota House Floor Meeting
WA
Washington 2025-2026 Regular Session
House Postsecondary Education & Workforce Jan 21st, 2026
Transcript Highlights:
- Thank you, Chair Paul.
- Good afternoon, Chair Paul and members of the committee.
- Thank you, Chair Paul and members of the committee.
- Good afternoon, Chair Paul and members of the committee.
- Thank you, Chair Paul and members of the committee.
Summary:
The committee held its first meeting and heard four bills. HB 2286 would create an alternative route to social worker licensure by removing the exam requirement for advanced social workers and allowing enhanced supervision with supervisor attestation in place of the exam for independent clinical social workers. The sponsor and several social workers testified that the exam is a poor measure of clinical competence and can be a barrier to licensure, while opponents warned that removing the exam could affect public protection and Washington’s participation in the social work compact. Members asked follow-up questions about the compact, the exam format, and accreditation requirements, but no action was taken.
HB 2363 would allow music therapy license applicants to practice under supervision for up to six months while waiting for exam verification. The sponsor described it as a technical fix to the new licensure system, and testimony from music therapists, educators, and a patient supported the bill as a way to avoid delays in hiring newly trained therapists while maintaining supervision and patient safety. The bill drew strong support in written testimony and no opposition in the hearing.
HB 2324 would change tuition waiver rules for children of eligible veterans and National Guard members by giving eligible children eight years from the date of a parent’s disability determination to use the waiver when that determination occurs after the child turns 18. The sponsor said the bill is meant to align state law with federal dependency education benefits and prevent families from losing access because disability determinations can take years. The committee asked for clarification on how the new timing would work, and the hearing closed without a vote.
HB 2098 would eliminate the cap on the advanced computing surcharge, expand Washington College Grant eligibility up to 100% of state median family income, and reduce resident undergraduate tuition by 10% for three years starting in 2027-28. Supporters, including students, labor, and advocacy groups, said the bill would improve affordability and access to higher education by asking large tech companies to pay more. Opponents from business and university groups argued the surcharge would be economically harmful, that the state already has substantial WEA funding, and that the bill would reduce tuition revenue without adequately backfilling institutional budgets. The committee heard extensive testimony and members raised questions about the surcharge cap, WEA spending, and the compacted funding structure, but no final action was taken.
MA
Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session
Senate Session (Full Formal with Calendar) Jun 21st, 2026 at 11:00 am
Massachusetts Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- Paul W. Mark. Liz Miranda. Yes. Liz Miranda. Yes. Mark C. Montigny. Michael O. Moore. Yes.
- Paul Feeney. Yes. Dylan Fernandes. Yes. Paul W. Mark? Mark C. Montigny. Yes. Jacob R. Oliveira.
- Paul W. Mark. Liz Miranda. Yes. Yes. Mark C. Montigny. Liz Miranda. Yes. Mark C. Montigny.
- Paul Feeney votes yes.
- Paul Mark: Yes. Paul Mark? Michael O. Moore: Yes. Patrick M. O'Connor: Yes.
Summary:
The Senate first debated and advanced Senate Bill 2561, an act to promote student learning and mental health, centered on a statewide bell-to-bell restriction on student cell phone use in schools. Supporters argued the bill would reduce distraction, improve academic performance and mental health, and encourage social interaction, while preserving flexibility for districts and exceptions for emergencies, special education, health needs, and instructional uses. Several senators emphasized local control and the need for public input, and a number of amendments were considered: some were withdrawn, some were rejected, and others were adopted, including an amendment requiring consistent and necessary exceptions and another requiring public hearings and local public input. The bill was then ordered to a third reading and passed to be engrossed by a roll call vote of 38-2.
The Senate also took up a conference committee report on a $259 million FY2025 supplemental appropriations bill. The report funded EMS costs, home care, the Healthy Incentives Program, DTA chip card technology, veterans benefits, the state police crime lab, the SSI state supplement, the Fair Housing Fund, and the National Guard, and included major indigent defense provisions: $40 million for 320 new CPCS staff attorneys, rate increases for private bar advocates, guardrails to reduce future work stoppages, and an independent review of the indigent defense system. Senators questioned the timing of the report, the inclusion of items not previously voted on by either branch, and the funding sources, including use of the transitional escrow fund and excess revenues. The report was accepted, the emergency preamble was adopted, and the supplemental budget was enacted.
In addition, the Senate passed other measures, including a bill authorizing the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority to supply water to the Linfield Center Water District and a municipal roads and bridges financing bill, both by roll call vote. The chamber also enacted a health care protections bill, and it concurred in referrals on a governor’s municipal empowerment legislation. The session included a brief memorial tribute and adjournment in memory of Harry C. Christensen.
MA
Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session
Senate Session (Full Formal with Calendar) Jun 21st, 2026 at 10:00 am
Massachusetts Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- Paul R. Feeney. Dylan A. Fernandes. Yes. Barry R. Finegold. Yes. Cindy F. Friedman. Adam Gomez.
- Paul W. Mark. Liz Miranda. Yes. Liz Miranda. Yes. Yes. Paul W. Mark. Liz Miranda? Yes. Mark C.
- Paul Feeney. Yes. Yes. Cindy F. Friedman. Yes. Yes. Robin K. Kennedy. Yes. Yes. Jason M. Lewis.
- Paul W. Mark. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Paul W. Mark. Yes. Yes. Jacob R. Oliveira. Yes. Rebecca L.
- Paul Feeney. Yes. Dena Fernandez. Yes. Barry R. Finegold. Cindy F. Friedman. Adam Gomez.
Summary:
The Senate resumed debate on An Act Fostering Agricultural Resilience in Massachusetts and considered a series of amendments focused on farm economics, land preservation, energy, labor, and agricultural education. Senator Tarr’s Amendment 5, allowing local-option tax exemptions for newly constructed farm buildings for up to five years, was adopted by a roll call vote of 38-0. Several other Tarr amendments were debated but not adopted, including proposals on APR criteria and climate resilience, a one-stop permit and grant portal, a foreign-ownership farmland registry, horse-riding instructor licensing, expanding farm-based renewable energy, a farm stand waiver process, non-agricultural conversion notice requirements, and a health and wellness amendment. Senator Mark’s Amendment 20, creating a Massachusetts Food Tourism Task Force to support marketing and procurement of agricultural goods, was adopted. Senator Gomez’s Amendment 41 on farmworker fairness and wage protections was withdrawn after discussion, with Senators Eldridge and Comerford speaking in support of continued work on the issue. Senator Fattman’s Amendment 34, directing a study of agricultural schools and regional workforce needs, was adopted by roll call vote 37-0.
The chamber also took up several procedural matters and extension orders. The Senate adopted a Ways and Means amendment and then ordered the agricultural bill to a third reading before passing it to be engrossed by a roll call vote of 39-0. Separately, the Senate adopted extension orders for the Committee on Revenue and the Committee on Financial Services, with Senators Eldridge and Feeney explaining the need for additional time on revenue and financial services bills; Senator Tarr raised concerns about the scope and duration of some of the extensions. The Senate also approved an extension for a financial technology services bill.
In addition to legislative action, the Senate observed a moment of silence in memory of Mark K. Harris after a motion by Senators Collins and Miranda, and recognized guests for Youth Mentoring Day and the Mass Mentoring Program. The chamber also passed a memorial overpass designation for U.S. Marine Staff Sergeant Raymond G. Torville and a local alcohol-license bill for the town of Topsfield. The session concluded with an order to adjourn until the next day at 11 a.m., with the adjournment also dedicated to the memory of Mark K. Harris.
MA
Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session
Senate Session (Full Formal with Calendar) Apr 1st, 2026
Massachusetts Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- Paul R. Feeney. Dylan A. Fernandes. Yes. Barry R. Finegold. Yes. Cindy F. Friedman. Adam Gómez.
- Paul W. Mark. Liz Miranda. Yes. Paul W. Mark. Liz Miranda? Yes. Mark C. Montigny? Yes. Michael O.
- Paul W. Mark. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Paul W. Mark. Yes. Yes. Jacob R. Oliveira. Yes. Rebecca L.
- Paul Feeney. Yes. Dylan Fernandes. Yes. Barry R. Finegold. Cindy F. Friedman. Adam Gómez.
- Paul W. Mark. Liz Miranda, yes. Mark C. Montigny, yes. Michael O. Moore, yes. Patrick M.
Summary:
The Senate resumed consideration of An Act Fostering Agricultural Resilience in Massachusetts and took up a series of amendments focused on farm taxation, land preservation, permitting, renewable energy, marketing, and labor standards. Amendment 5, offered by Senator Tarr, would allow local option tax exemptions for newly constructed farm buildings for up to five years; it was supported by Senator Comerford and adopted by a roll call vote of 38-0. Amendment 20, offered by Senator Mark, created a Massachusetts Food Tourism Task Force to improve marketing and promotion of agricultural goods, and it was also adopted. Several other Tarr amendments were debated but rejected, including proposals on APR criteria, a one-stop permitting and grants portal, foreign ownership tracking in the farmland registry, horse-riding instruction licensure, higher solar/agrovoltaics caps on farmland, farm stand waiver flexibility, notice before conversion of registered farmland, and a health and wellness amendment.
A major point of debate was Amendment 41, offered by Senator Gomez, which sought to extend wage and hour protections to agricultural laborers, including raising the subminimum wage, adding overtime, paid breaks, and paid time off. Senator Gomez described the measure as a correction to racist historical exclusions, and Senator Eldridge and Senator Comerford spoke in support of stronger worker protections and continued negotiations. The sponsor ultimately withdrew the amendment, saying talks with stakeholders and Senate leadership would continue. The chamber also heard a brief recognition for youth mentoring guests and later adopted a study amendment from Senator Fattman directing an assessment of the need for a Central Massachusetts agricultural school; that amendment passed 37-0.
After the agricultural bill was amended by the Senate Ways and Means amendment and ordered to a third reading, the Senate passed the bill, An Act Fostering Agricultural Resilience in Massachusetts (S. 3029), to be engrossed by a vote of 39-0. The Senate then adopted several committee extension orders, including extensions for the Revenue Committee and the Financial Services Committee, with some discussion about the number and scope of bills covered. The chamber also passed a local bill designating the U.S. Marine Staff Sergeant Raymond G. Torville Veterans Memorial Overpass in Sandwich and another local alcohol licensing bill for Topsfield. The session ended with recognitions for community and youth groups, a motion to adjourn in memory of Mark K. Harris, and adjournment to the following day at 11 a.m.