Video & Transcript Research : 'Ed Martin'
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FL
Florida 2025 Regular Session
Banking and Insurance Mar 3rd, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- SENATOR MARTIN? SENATOR OSGOOD? SENATOR PASSIDOMO? SENATOR PIZZO? SENATOR TRUENOW?
- SENATOR MARTIN? SENATOR OSGOOD? SENATOR PASSIDOMO? SENATOR PIZZO?
- SENATOR MARTIN? SENATOR OSGOOD? SENATOR PASSIDOMO? SENATOR PIZZO? SENATOR TRUENOW? SHARIEF?
- SENATOR MARTIN? SENATOR OSGOOD? SENATOR PASSIDOMO? SENATOR PIZZO? SENATOR TRUENOW?
- SENATOR MARTIN? SENATOR OSGOOD? SENATOR PASSIDOMO? SENATOR PIZZO? SENATOR TRUENOW?
CA
California 2025-2026 Regular Session
Senate Floor Session Jun 4th, 2026
California Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- the life of a man like Clarence Jones in a few minutes, so I'll start by relying on the words of Martin
- Then he joined the legal team of Martin Luther King, Jr., and went on to become his confidant.
- He would go on and help craft Martin Luther King's "I Have a Dream" speech. He would go on.
- He helped craft Martin Luther King's "I Have a Dream" speech.
- In January this year, on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service, I was able to join him.
Summary:
The Senate convened with a quorum, offered a prayer and pledge, and then moved through a series of privileges of the floor recognitions. Senators honored California Interscholastic Federation Scholar-Athletes Ryan Liu of Burlingame High School and Mona Sugawata of West Torrance High School for their academic, athletic, and community achievements, and welcomed a delegation from Jiangsu Province in China to mark the 15th anniversary of the California-Jiangsu sister-state relationship. The chamber also recognized the California Taxpayers Association on its 100th anniversary and welcomed Senator Ochoa Bogh’s district staff visiting Sacramento.
Under motions and resolutions, the Senate referred AB 782 to the Rules Committee. A motion by Senator Menjivar to rescind the vote on AB 1457 and place it on third reading was debated, with Senator Valadares opposing; the roll call passed 28-9. The Senate then took up the consent calendar, adopting Assembly Concurrent Resolutions 129, 164, and 166 by a unanimous 38-0 vote, with the same vote applying to the remaining consent items.
The remainder of the session was devoted to adjourn-in-memory tributes. Senators Becker, Wiener, and Rubio honored Clarence Jones, Rita Semmel, and Deputy Levi Vargas, respectively, describing their public service, community leadership, and lasting legacies. The Senate then announced that the next floor session would be Monday, June 8 at 2 p.m., and recessed.
FL
Transcript Highlights:
- Senator Martin in debate. Thank you, President.
- I wasn't going to debate, but Senator Martin, I have to you. Mr.
- That is not a myth or a theory, Senator Martin.
- Senator Martin and we did speak.
- Senator Martin, I love you, and we already hugged it out.
Summary:
The Senate convened with a quorum present, opened with prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, and heard several member introductions and recognitions, including awareness resolutions and visiting groups in the galleries. The chamber then moved to special order bills. Senate Bill 88 on utility terrain vehicles passed 32-5 after debate over allowing local governments to opt in to street use of UTVs under safety restrictions; Senator Smith opposed it over safety concerns. Senate Bill 102 on exceptional student education passed 36-0, creating a workforce credential/badge program for students with autism or on modified curricula; supporters emphasized employment opportunities and safety training, while Senator Davis raised concerns about added costs to school districts. Senate Bill 106 on exploitation of vulnerable adults passed 37-0, allowing alternative service on scammers through the same apps used to contact victims. Senate Bill 130 on compensation for victims of wrongful incarceration passed 38-0, extending filing deadlines and removing restrictive barriers; supporters called it a long-overdue justice fix. Senate Bill 158 on diagnostic and supplemental breast examinations passed 38-0, eliminating cost sharing for follow-up breast tests in the state employee health plan to encourage early detection.
The most contentious measure was Senate Bill 234 on criminal offenses against law enforcement officers. The bill sought to clarify that violent resistance to officers is not justified by claims about the legality of the detention and to add manslaughter of a law enforcement officer to offenses carrying life imprisonment without release. An amendment by Senator Jones to restore “in good faith” language failed, after debate centered on due process, racial profiling, and the role of juries and suppression motions. Several senators spoke in support of law enforcement but objected to the bill’s breadth and mandatory life penalty; Senator Leek ultimately postponed the bill temporarily rather than taking a final vote. Senate Bill 262 on trust code technical changes passed 36-0. Senate Bill 274 designating roads for Harris Rosen and Geraldine Thompson passed 38-0, followed by a successful co-sponsorship motion and remarks honoring Thompson’s legacy. Senate Bill 280 on candidate qualification passed 38-0, creating an enforcement mechanism for party-affiliation filing requirements. Senate Bill 296 on middle and high school start times passed 38-0, repealing the statewide start-time mandate and shifting implementation decisions to local districts while requiring public reporting and discussion. Senate Bill 356 designating January 27 as Holocaust Remembrance Day also passed unanimously, with senators emphasizing remembrance, anti-Semitism, and the educational value of the memorial and observance.
PA
Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session
Senate Session (Jun 22 2026)
Pennsylvania Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- President, I request capital leaves for Senators Kiefer, Bartlett, Brooks, Coleman, and Martin, and a
- Senator Pittman requests capital leaves for Senators Bartolotta, Brooks, Coleman, Martin, and Kiefer,
- Martin, aye. Mastriano, aye. Miller, aye. Muth, aye. Penicicote, aye. Phillips-Hill, aye.
- President, I request capital leaves for Senator Martin and Robinson. Chair, thanks gentlemen.
- Returning to session, Senator Martin reports from the Committee on Appropriations.
Summary:
The Senate convened with prayer by Senator Anthony H. Williams and the Pledge of Allegiance, then received gubernatorial communications and a long list of newly referred Senate and House bills and resolutions. The chamber approved the April 22, 2026 journal by a 49-0 vote. Senators also introduced guests, including a high school senior advisory council visiting with Senator Malone and a young guest welcomed by Senator Costa.
On the floor, several bills were taken up and either set aside or advanced. Senate Bill 1377 and Senate Bill 482 were re-referred to Appropriations, Senate Bill 906 was re-referred to Rules and Executive Nominations, and Senate Bills 1133, 1334, and 1368 were also sent to Appropriations. Senator Dush requested a conflict-of-interest ruling on an amendment to Senate Bill 469; the chair ruled no conflict existed and required him to vote, and the amendment was adopted. The Senate also took Senate Bill 127 from the table and placed it on the calendar.
The Senate then considered Supplemental Calendar Number One. Senate Bill 362 received a technical amendment and was advanced; Senate Bill 1183 passed 50-0; Senate Bill 1352, which would allow qualifying substance use disorder treatment providers to receive two-year licenses, passed 45-5 after supportive remarks from Senators Brooks, Tartaglione, and Street; and House Bill 1877, codifying the Pennsylvania seal of biliteracy, passed 50-0 after Senator Lindsey Williams described its student-led origins. The session ended with committee announcements for the next day and Senator Tartaglione’s petition urging a floor vote on the House-passed minimum wage bill, House Bill 2189.
FL
Transcript Highlights:
- And Senator Martin, there is a late...
- That is Amendment Barcode 104676 by Senator Martin.
- Senator Martin, you're recognized to explain the amendment.
- We, first of all, would like to thank Senator Martin for the amendment.
- Senator Martin, you're recognized to close on the amendment. I'll wait close.
Keywords:
temporary door locking device, emergency safety, building code, training programs, fire exit security, utility services, municipal agreements, public meetings, rates and fees, public service commission, municipal utility, water service, wastewater service, property owners, annexation, civil action, community associations, condominium, homeowners associations, structural integrity
Summary:
The Committee on Regulated Industries met with a quorum and took up four bills. First, it considered SB 1724 on municipal utility services. Senator Martin offered a late-filed delete-everything amendment that would require annual customer meetings for extraterritorial utility customers, cap use of gross utility revenues for general government at 10%, eliminate a 25% surcharge on customers outside city limits, reduce the rate differential cap from 50% to 25%, remove municipal natural gas utilities from the bill, and preserve certain existing bond-related surcharges until debt is retired or refinanced. The League of Cities raised implementation concerns about the July 1, 2026 effective date and the need for rate studies and budget adjustments. The amendment was adopted and the committee reported CS/SB 1724 favorably.
The committee then heard SB 936 on temporary door locking devices from Senator McLean. The bill would define temporary door locking devices, allow them to be installed at any height, require the Florida Building Commission to add standards to the Florida Building Code, and require their use to be incorporated into safety plans, drills, and training. With no opposition or amendments, SB 936 was reported favorably.
Next, the committee considered SB 1014 by Senator Mayfield, which would prohibit municipalities from refusing water or wastewater service solely because a property owner will not annex, and would require service expansion when a property is near a municipal main line, not served by another utility, and the utility has capacity. A committee amendment narrowed the bill to properties near a main line and reduced the distance threshold from 2,000 meters to one-half mile. The Florida League of Cities opposed the bill as amended, citing concerns about property size, annexation conflicts, enclave creation, and possible revenue impacts, but the bill was reported favorably.
Finally, the committee heard SB 1498 on community associations from Chair Bradley. A strike-all amendment revised technical provisions on video conference recordings, turnover inspection reports, SIRS references, and electronic voting, and added two major policy changes: requiring associations to provide records to law enforcement and prosecutors and creating a second-degree misdemeanor for willful refusal, and prohibiting mandatory club or amenity fee schemes controlled by developers or third parties that generate profit beyond proportional expenses. Testimony in support described homeowner disputes involving concentrated board control, lack of transparency, and mandatory fees in communities such as Rosedale. The amendment was adopted and CS/SB 1498 was reported favorably. At the end of the meeting, Senator Bracey Davis asked to be recorded voting in the affirmative on tabs 1, 2, and 3, and the committee adjourned.
FL
Florida 2026 Regular Session
Governmental Oversight and Accountability Mar 25th, 2025
Governmental Oversight and Accountability
Transcript Highlights:
- We are going to give Senator Martin just a second.
- We are going to give Senator Martin just a second to get here.
- Senator Martin, you are recognized to explain your bill. Thank you, Chair.
- Seeing none, now there's an amendment, barcode 152-346 by Senator Martin.
- Senator Martin, you are recognized to close on the amendment.
Summary:
The committee took up several bills and reported each favorably after brief presentations, amendments, and roll calls. SB 1760, by Senator Grall, would require certain elected officials and agency heads to reside in Florida, with agency heads also required to be U.S. citizens and live in the county where their agency is headquartered; it also clarifies the constitutional prohibition on holding more than one office. SB 1202, by Senator McClain, expands insurance benefits for firefighters who are totally and permanently disabled during official training exercises, and its amendment was adopted to avoid local fiscal impact. SB 582, by Senator Leak, increases penalties for unlawful demolition of historic buildings and limits the higher penalty to properties on the National Register of Historic Places or in a listed district; supporters included representatives of St. Augustine and the Florida League of Cities, while one opponent waived in opposition. SB 312, by Senator Gates, revises governance of the Florida Institute for Human and Machine Cognition and allows affiliated nonprofit subsidiaries to enter agreements with universities; an amendment adding one public member to the board was adopted, and the bill was reported favorably.
The committee then considered SB 676, by Senator Martin, which would allow employees to waive the state minimum wage right under a framework the sponsor said would help young or inexperienced workers gain entry-level experience. The bill drew extensive public testimony, with supporters arguing it could help small businesses hire and create opportunities, and opponents saying it would undermine the voter-approved minimum wage, invite coercion, and exploit vulnerable workers. Senator Martin’s amendment clarifying the Fair Labor Standards Act exception was adopted, and the bill passed on a favorable vote despite opposition from Senator Arrington and others. Finally, SB 440, by Senator McClain, was heard as an expansion of prior law to cover public employees and prohibit certain employment practices related to gender identity and pronoun use; after an amendment narrowing the bill by deleting references to training, instruction, or other activity regarding sexual orientation, the committee heard extensive testimony both for and against, with supporters framing it as protecting conscience rights and opponents calling it discriminatory. The committee ultimately reported SB 440 favorably as well.
FL
Florida 2026 Regular Session
Children, Families, and Elder Affairs Mar 4th, 2025
Children, Families, and Elder Affairs
Transcript Highlights:
- SB 106 on exploitation of vulnerable adults by Senator Martin.
- But like Senator Martin said, we will see that trend.
- Thank you, Senator Martin. Yeah? Thank you, Senator Martin, for bringing this great bill.
- Senator Martin, you're recognized to close the bill. Thank you, Chair.
- Thank you, Senator Martin.
Summary:
The Committee on Children, Families, and Elder Affairs met with a quorum and first took up SB 398, which would create a statewide public health awareness campaign through the Department of Elder Affairs on Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Senator Burgess said the campaign would focus on early detection, brain health, risk reduction, clinical trial access, and community resources. The committee heard supportive testimony from a caregiver, AARP, the Alzheimer’s Association, and others, with members discussing the need for culturally responsive outreach and continued funding. SB 398 was reported favorably by roll call vote.
The committee then heard SB 106, which would strengthen Florida’s exploitation injunction law for vulnerable adults by allowing service of an unascertainable exploiter through the same communication method used to contact the victim, such as text, Facebook Messenger, or WhatsApp. Senator Martin explained the bill as a way to close a loophole that lets scammers evade traditional service, and witnesses from the Florida Bankers Association and the Florida Bar’s Elder Law Section supported it, describing how the bill could stop ongoing thefts more quickly while preserving due process. Members asked about gift card scams, clerk workload, and the definition of an unascertainable respondent. SB 106 was reported favorably.
The Department of Children and Families then presented an update on the Adoption Benefits for Qualifying Adoptive Employees Program, describing its expansion over time and the current one-time lump-sum benefit structure for eligible adoptive parents. The presentation covered eligibility rules, open enrollment, funding history, and the program’s impact on adoption placements, with members asking why tax collectors were included but other constitutional offices were not, and whether foster relatives could qualify. Finally, the committee considered SPB 7012, a committee bill addressing child welfare workforce shortages, treatment foster care for high-acuity children, and improved data collection on commercially sexually exploited children. The bill would direct DCF to recruit former public safety workers for CPI and case manager roles, create a treatment foster care pilot in two judicial circuits, and require more detailed, analyzable data and capacity studies. The bill drew support from child welfare advocates, with some members urging DCF to return with a more developed framework; it was adopted as a committee bill and reported favorably.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- He then says he will go to Director Martin and then General Schultzer. Mr.
- Chairman, Vice Chair, senators, Freeman Martin, Texas Department of Public Safety.
- OK, all right, thank you, um, Director Martin, you are recognized.
- Chairman, vice chair, senators, uh, Friedman Martin, Texas Department of Public Safety.
- Uh, Colonel Martin, it's great to see you again. Thank you for your service, General.
Summary:
The Senate Committee on Border Security held its first hearing of the 89th legislative session, established a quorum, welcomed new and returning members, and adopted the committee rules without objection. The chair said the hearing would be limited to invited state agency witnesses and was intended as a status update for new members on current border operations, especially in light of the change in federal administration.
Testimony came from the Office of the Attorney General, Texas Department of Public Safety, and the Texas Military Department. The Attorney General’s representative said border-related litigation is largely in a holding pattern while the new U.S. Department of Justice awaits additional leadership, and noted prior cases involving concertina wire, buoys, and the CBP One app. DPS described Operation Lone Star’s evolution from filling gaps when Border Patrol was overwhelmed to current operations focused on interdiction, criminal arrests, fentanyl and meth seizures, and national security concerns, while also noting improved morale and more voluntary deployments as border pressure has eased. The Texas Military Department reported more than 5,000 personnel on state active duty, extensive use of barriers, drones, boats, and rapid-response forces, and said Operation Lone Star has resulted in more than 531,000 apprehensions and a 90% reduction in illegal crossings.
Members and witnesses discussed whether the state should maintain its current border-security footprint while federal policy settles, with the chair emphasizing preserving institutional knowledge and leaving tactical decisions to the governor. Questions also covered trooper fatigue, Border Patrol training under SB 602, and concerns about cartel-driven commercial trucking and fuel depots near the border. The committee heard that Border Patrol training with DPS has resumed, and the chair asked agencies to keep the Legislature informed as legal and operational circumstances change. No bills were heard and no votes were taken beyond adopting the committee rules.
MN
Transcript Highlights:
- Today's chaplain is the Reverend Martin Erickson from Como Park Lutheran Church in St. Paul.
- As you heard, I'm Martin Erickson from Como Park Lutheran Church in St.
- Sam Outdoor Heritage Council; Suzanne Brian, Tom Saxhaug, under Minnesota Environment Quality Board; Ed
- Bren, Daniel Katzenberger; Nicholas Martin, Angela Smith, and under Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
- Ed Bren, Daniel Katzenberger, Nicholas Martin, Angela Smith, and under Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
Summary:
The Senate convened under a call, established a quorum, received a chaplain’s prayer and the pledge, and then proceeded through routine business. Members adopted the committee reports except those relating to Senate Concurrent Resolution 6, gave second reading to Senate File 203 and several House files, and referred Senate File 5200 to Rules and Administration. The chamber also adopted a motion to return Senate File 4390 from the general orders calendar to the Finance Committee.
The main floor activity centered on a series of motions to send withdrawn executive appointments back to their originating committees under Senate Rule 8.2. Senator Putnam moved to return appointments from the Agriculture, Veterans, Broadband, and Rural Development Committee, including the Board of Animal Health, the Veterans Affairs commissioner, and the Rural Finance Authority. Senator Swadzinski moved a similar action for Education Policy appointments, and Senator Her did so for Environment, Climate, and Legacy appointments, including the DNR commissioner, the PCA commissioner, the Clean Water Council, and related boards. Senator Wicklund later moved to return Health and Human Services appointments, including the Children, Youth and Families commissioner, Health commissioner, VNSHUR Board, and EMS director.
These motions prompted extended debate. Supporters of returning the appointments argued that the Senate has a constitutional advice-and-consent duty and that committee hearings should occur before floor consideration. Opponents, mainly Republicans, argued that sending the appointments back without floor action avoided accountability and transparency, especially in light of fraud concerns in state programs and agencies. Some authors said hearings had not yet been scheduled or that the committee process should come first; others noted at least one hearing had already occurred on a health nomination. The debate repeatedly focused on whether the Senate was fulfilling its constitutional role or delaying confirmation review.
Roll-call votes were requested on the appointment motions. The Putnam, Swadzinski, Her, and Wicklund motions were each adopted by narrow 34-33 margins, returning the appointments to committee rather than leaving them on the confirmation calendar for floor action.
CA
California 2025-2026 Regular Session
Assembly Floor Session May 7th, 2026
California House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- Member, I cannot let this opportunity pass, for one, for someone who represents the Martin Luther King
- Martin Luther King Hospital is a distressed hospital.
- Martin Luther King Hospital to open up.
- And I also talked about Martin Luther King Hospital now.
- And I also talked about Martin Luther King Hospital not only opening up but also meeting challenges.
Summary:
The Assembly met in session after a quorum call, heard a prayer and pledge, and then moved through a large daily file of bills and resolutions. Early procedural motions were adopted, including re-referrals and a motion to allow the Appropriations Committee to notice SB 73, which passed 46-15. Members also introduced several guests, including young legislators, schoolchildren, a championship girls’ basketball team, realtors, and CASA advocates.
On the floor, the Assembly concurred in Senate amendments to AB 1389, a tribal gaming compact urgency bill for the Yurok Tribe, which passed 55-0 on the urgency and measure. The body then passed a series of bills on topics including trespass enforcement (AB 1632), pest control fees (AB 2380), county investment authority (AB 2080), pupil achievement gap reporting (AB 2149), transit board stipends (AB 1625), e-filing for workplace violence restraining orders (AB 2179), election eligibility restrictions for registered sex offenders (AB 2753), juvenile firearm possession and deferred entry of judgment (AB 2636), court access and First Amendment issues (AB 1544), physician medical record integrity (AB 1637), forced marriage protections (AB 2534), and local authority to restrict under-12 e-bike use in San Mateo County (AB 2595). Most of these measures passed with little or no opposition, with votes ranging from 53-0 to 63-0.
The Assembly also adopted ACR 173, reaffirming California’s sister-state relationship with Jalisco, Mexico, after adding 50 coauthors. Later, it adopted ACR 163 designating May as Missing and Murdered Indigenous People Awareness Month after extensive testimony from the author and multiple caucus members emphasizing the crisis, data gaps, tribal sovereignty, and the need for more resources and action; 64 coauthors were added before the resolution passed by voice vote. The chamber likewise adopted ACR 180 designating Compost Awareness Week and ACR 182 establishing Youth Mental Health Awareness Week, both after coauthor roll calls and voice votes.
The day concluded with urgent action on AB 108, which provides up to $25 million in one-time emergency bridge funding for distressed hospitals facing imminent closure. Members from both parties spoke in support, citing rural access, prior hospital closures, and the need to protect community health care; the bill passed 59-0 and was sent to the Governor immediately. The Assembly then handled consent calendar items, heard an adjournment in memory for labor leader Larry Mazzola Sr., and adjourned until Monday, May 11 at 1 p.m.
FL
Florida 2025 Regular Session
Judiciary Mar 25th, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- Senator Martin, good afternoon. You're recognized to explain the bill. Thank you.
- That's the claim Bill. >> Thank you, Senator Martin for explaining the bill senators.
- Senator Martin, you're recognized to close it close. Thank you, Senator Martin.
- Senator Martin, you're recognized to explain the bill. >> Thank you.
- Senator Martin, you're recognized to close. >> Thank you.
FL
Florida 2025 Regular Session
Appropriations Committee on Criminal and Civil Justice Mar 24th, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- . >> Vice Chair Martin: >> Sen. Ingoglia: HERE. >> Sen. Osgood: >> Sen. Polsky: HERE. >> Sen.
- Yarborough: YES. >> Vice Chair Martin: YES. >> Sen. Garcia: YES.
- Yarborough: YES. >> Vice Chair Martin: YES. >> Sen.
- Yarborough: YES. >> Vice Chair Martin: YES. >> Sen.
- Yarborough: YES. >> Vice Chair Martin: YES. >> Sen. Garcia: YES. OKAY.
US
US Federal 2025-2026 Regular Session
US House Floor Proceedings (Tuesday, May 12, 2026)
US Federal House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- <08:27:01.200>
elementary once attended segregated ed elementary once attended segregated - ed elementary schools.<08:27:02.958>
The <08:27:03.200>passage <08:27:03.600>of < - state at the epicenter of the Martin state at the epicenter of the Martin civil<08:28:07.920>
- <08:32:27.200>
Martin <08:32:27.440>Luther reminded them that Dr. Dr. - Martin Luther reminded them that Dr. Dr.
FL
Florida 2025 Regular Session
Agriculture Mar 25th, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- On ultra process, food by Senator Martin Senator Martin, you're recognized to explain the bill. >> Thank
- We also want to thank Senator Martin for taking time to discuss this issue with us multiple times.
- So we encourage a no vote today and look forward to continuing to talk with Senator Martin about his
- Thank you very much, Mister Chair. >> Senator Martin, I do understand what you're trying to do, which
- Senator Martin, you're recognized to close on your Bill.
FL
Transcript Highlights:
- And that's Senator Martin. He never beat me with a staffer.
- But the problem with Senator Martin, he's a sandbagger.
- The only guy I can't beat this whole process is Senator Martin.
- Senator Martin to close.
- Senator Martin to close.
Summary:
The Senate opened with prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, and several introductions, then devoted most of the first part of the meeting to a farewell-style recognition of Senator Joe Gruters. Senators from both parties offered extended remarks praising his loyalty, political instincts, family involvement, and work as a legislator and as incoming Republican National Committee chair. Gruters responded with remarks about his background, including overcoming a childhood speech impediment, his service in the Legislature, and major policy efforts he highlighted such as alimony reform and the undergrounding of utilities. A ceremonial gift was presented to him recognizing his work on a 2019 public-safety/immigration bill, and the Senate adopted a motion to spread his remarks upon the journal before recessing briefly.
After the recess, the Senate returned to regular business. No committee reports, governor’s messages, House messages, or reconsideration matters were reported. The chamber then moved to third reading and temporarily postponed CS/CS/CS/SB 354, relating to blue ribbon projects. The next bill, CS/CS/SB 1758, relating to public assistance, was taken up, and Senator Gaetz explained that it contained five reforms to the public assistance system previously discussed by the Senate. Debate was about to continue when the transcript ended.
NY
New York 2025-2026 Regular Session
New York State Senate Session - 03/19/2026
New York Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- Senator Martins on the resolution. >> Thank you, Madam President.
- Thank you, Madam President. >> Thank you, Senator Martins.
- >> THANK YOU, SENATOR MARTINS. SENATOR MATTERA ON THE RESOLUTION.
- Senator Martins, why do you rise?
- Senator Martins to explain his vote. >> Thank you, Mr. President.
Summary:
The Senate opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and an invocation by Major Brittany Wooten, then took up Senate Resolution No. 1749 designating March 19, 2026, as West Point Day in New York State. Majority Leader Stewart-Cousins, Senator Skoufis, Minority Leader Ortt, and several other senators spoke in support of West Point, its cadets, and the academy’s history and role in national service. Colonel Daniel R. Stuewe, commander of U.S. Army Garrison West Point, also addressed the chamber, emphasizing the long-standing partnership between West Point and New York and the academy’s mission to develop leaders of character. The resolution was adopted, and the West Point Day observance included recognition of cadets and academy staff.
The Senate then moved through a calendar of bills, passing measures including amendments to the Public Health Law, Election Law, Executive Law, Penal Law, Elder Law, Real Property Tax Law, General Municipal Law, and Public Authorities Law. Several bills drew brief explanations of vote or debate. Senator Mayer spoke in support of a bill establishing Fred Korematsu Day, framing it as a reminder of the injustice of Japanese American internment and the need to defend civil rights. Senator Ryan supported a bill streamlining the senior citizen property tax exemption process, calling it a way to reduce burdens on older residents. Senator Helming opposed a local government planning mandate as an unfunded mandate, while Senators Walczyk and Martins criticized a housing-related reporting bill as burdensome and ineffective.
The most debated item was Calendar 457, a housing-data and reporting bill sponsored by Senator May. Supporters argued it would improve transparency and help the state understand zoning and housing capacity, while opponents said it imposed new reporting burdens on municipalities and could penalize poorer communities by threatening CDBG funding. After debate, the bill was restored to the non-controversial calendar and ultimately passed by a vote of 37-23. The Senate then adjourned until the next legislative day.
MD
Transcript Highlights:
- Martin Luther King Jr.
- Martin Luther King Jr., which remind us that the ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in
- Today, as we know, is Martin Luther King Jr.'
- , as we know, is Martin Luther King Jr.'
- Martin Luther King just to remember Dr.
Summary:
The House convened with the pledge of allegiance, prayer, roll call, and approval of the previous day’s journal. Members introduced a large block of House bills (331 through 380) and journalized several bill reassignments, including House Bill 174 to Environment and Transportation and House Bill 296 to Ways and Means and Economic Matters. The chamber then turned to a special Martin Luther King Jr. Day address delivered by the delegate from Calvert and Prince George’s County, which focused on Dr. King’s legacy, moral courage, rest as resistance, protecting vulnerable communities, and the need for legislators to move beyond ceremony into action on civil rights, voting rights, and justice. The speech also highlighted Maryland’s early recognition of King’s birthday, the restoration of a neglected graveyard near the House of Reformation and Instruction for Colored Children, and the state’s history of diverse leadership.
After the address, the House memorialized and journalized the speech. The remainder of the session consisted largely of announcements: caucus meetings were scheduled for the next day, including Democratic, Republican, Royal, women’s, rural, and running caucus gatherings; the women’s caucus said it was accepting numbered bills for review and possible sponsorship; and the Montgomery County delegation continued a food drive for the Upcounty Hub. Members also welcomed several guests and constituents to the gallery, including District 22 visitors, a delegate’s daughter, and a delegate’s son. The protocol chair then introduced a group of student pages from several counties and schools.
The House took a second roll call, confirming 132 members present, and then adjourned on motion of the majority leader until Tuesday, January 20th at 10:00 a.m.
FL
Transcript Highlights:
- All right, we're going to start off today with tab 2, SB 1826 on ultra-processed food by Senator Martin
- Senator Martin, you are recognized to explain the bill. Thank you, Chair, and committee members.
- Chair, and thank you, Senator Martin. I appreciate our conversations on this.
- Chair, and thank you, Senator Martin. I appreciate our conversations on this.
- Senator Martin, you're recognized to close on your bill. Thank you.
Summary:
The Committee on Agriculture met with a quorum present and first heard SB 1826 by Senator Martin, which would restrict ultra-processed foods served to public school students during the school day. Senator Martin said the bill is aimed only at government-purchased food in public schools, not parents’ lunches or after-school sales, and argued it is intended to protect children’s health and school performance. Members questioned the bill’s definition of ultra-processed food, its scope during the school day, and possible cost and compliance issues. Senator Rouson offered a friendly amendment extending the compliance date from July 1, 2025 to July 1, 2026, and the committee adopted it. Several industry groups and associations spoke against the bill, citing lack of a clear definition, FDA preemption concerns, costs, and the risk of a state-by-state patchwork; Moms for Liberty waived in support. Senator Martin then temporarily postponed the bill for further work.
The committee next took up CS for SB 1132 by Senator Truenow on consumers’ right to repair certain equipment, including agricultural equipment and portable digital devices. An amendment by Senator Boyd was adopted to exclude security and life-safety systems and remove automobile-related provisions. Public testimony included opposition from TechNet, which said the bill is unnecessary because repair parts, tools, and manuals are already available and asked for changes to make the bill prospective and remove the private right of action. Agricultural equipment dealers and manufacturers testified against the bill, arguing that current repair resources and a memorandum of understanding with the Farm Bureau already address repair access, while warning that the bill could undermine dealer margins, parts inventory, training programs, safety, cybersecurity, and emissions compliance. Some members supported the concept but noted the bill still needed work. The committee voted 4-0 to report CS for SB 1132 favorably.
The meeting concluded with a presentation from Florida 4-H youth leaders on the organization’s impact and goals. The presenters described 4-H’s role in leadership, agriculture, STEM, and healthy living, highlighted statewide participation and camp programs, and asked for continued support for camp improvements, especially the Camp Cherry Lake revitalization effort. Senators praised the students’ presentations and the value of 4-H before the committee adjourned.
FL
Transcript Highlights:
- Senator Martin? Senator McLean? Senator Trunale? Senator Wright? Core, Mr. President, Mr. Chair.
- Senator Martin, go ahead and go back and forth. Hi. Hi.
- Martin, Senator McLean, Senator Trunale, Senator Wright, by Chair Avala, Chair Collins. Yes.
- Senator Davis, Senator Jones, Senator Martin, yes. Senator McClain, yes. Senator Wright, yes.
- Senator Jones, Senator Martin, yes. Senator McClain, Senator Wright, yes. By...
Summary:
The Transportation Committee took up several bills and agency priorities. SB 44, as amended, increased penalties for operating a vehicle with unauthorized red or blue lights and for obscuring a license plate, including new penalties for using, possessing, manufacturing, or selling license-plate obscuring devices. The sponsor and supporting law enforcement witnesses said the bill addresses widespread plate obstruction and enforcement problems; the committee adopted the amendment and reported the bill favorably. The committee also passed SB 654, designating a railroad overpass in Starke as the Heroes Memorial Overpass, and SB 620, creating a Miami-Dade College specialty license plate with proceeds supporting scholarships and limited administrative/marketing costs.
The committee then considered SB 594, which would allow Florida deep-water ports to seek Fish and Wildlife Commission approval for no-anchoring/no-mooring buffer zones adjacent to port channels and turning basins. An amendment clarified the application process, review timeline, rulemaking, and enforcement. Port representatives supported the bill as a way to protect channels and commerce, while several boating and cruising advocates opposed it, arguing the 5,000-foot buffer was excessive, could create safety issues, and would displace anchored vessels without adequate alternative dockage. Despite the opposition, the committee adopted the amendment and reported the bill favorably.
The committee also heard a presentation from the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles on its 2025 legislative priorities, including stricter proof-of-address and identification requirements for vehicle registration, changes to tank vehicle and IFTA rules, a higher crash-report damage threshold, and electronic notice options. Secretary Perdue then outlined FDOT priorities focused on workforce development, research, rural road funding, small business participation, consistent traffic-control standards, modal infrastructure, transit accountability, spaceport support, advanced air mobility, and shifting some power-consumption revenues to the Transportation Trust Fund to offset electric vehicle impacts. No votes were taken on the agency priorities, and the meeting adjourned after members recorded additional affirmative votes on SB 44 and SB 654.
FL
Florida 2026 Regular Session
Appropriations Committee on Criminal and Civil Justice Mar 5th, 2025
Appropriations Committee on Criminal and Civil Justice
Transcript Highlights:
- Vice Chair Martin, here. Senator Angolia, here.
- Chair Martin? Yes. Senator Garcia? Yes.
- Chair Martin. Senator Wright. Yes. Senator Yarbrough. Yes. Senator Garcia. Chair Martin. Yes.
- Vice Chair Martin? Yes. By your vote, C.S. for C.S.S.B. 138 is reported favorably.
- Chair Martin? Yes. By your vote, SB 234 is reported. Thank you, Senator. Thank you, Senator.
Summary:
The Appropriations Committee on Criminal and Civil Justice met with a quorum and first approved SPB 7014, which terminates the state court system’s mediation and arbitration trust fund; staff noted the fund has no current balance and that filing fees were already redirected in 2011. The bill was reported favorably as a committee bill without objection.
The committee then took up CS/SB 48 on alternative judicial procedures for foreclosure sales. Senator Garcia described it as a response to reported abuses in Miami-Dade County, adding longer sale timeframes, stronger notice requirements, rules for alternative sale methods, online auction authorization, and consumer protections for surplus funds. After adopting a technical amendment, members raised concerns about whether the bill was codifying a process they believed should remain with clerks of court and about the new online auction provisions; Senator Garcia ultimately moved to temporarily postpone the bill.
Members also approved CS/SB 322, creating a nonjudicial process for sheriffs to remove unauthorized persons from commercial property, and CS/SB 138, which revises DUI-related language from “intoxicating” to “impairing” and allows judicial circuits to create DUI diversion programs. CS/SB 138 drew opposition from some members and testimony from cannabis advocates and defense lawyers who argued the catch-all language was too broad and could sweep in lawful medications or create testing and expungement issues, but it still passed. The committee further reported favorably SB 130 on wrongful incarceration compensation, extending filing deadlines and removing restrictive bars to compensation, and SB 234, which strengthens penalties for violent resistance against law enforcement officers and clarifies that such resistance can lead to life imprisonment if it results in an officer’s death. Both bills received supportive testimony, though SB 234 also drew concerns from defense lawyers about removing language tied to lawful duty and good faith; the sponsor said the bill preserves defenses while focusing on violent resistance. The meeting then adjourned.