Video & Transcript : 'James Capers Jr.' :

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MA
MA

Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

Senate Session (Full Formal with Calendar) Jun 18th, 2026

Massachusetts Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Driscoll Jr. No. Peter J. Durant? Yes. Lydia Edwards. James B. Eldridge? No. Ryan C. Fattman.
  • Driscoll Jr. Peter J. Durant? Yes. Lydia Edwards. James B. Eldridge. No. Ryan C. Fattman. Paul R.
  • Driscoll Jr. No. Peter J. Durant. Yes. Lydia Edwards. James B. Eldridge. No. Ryan C. Fattman.
  • Driscoll Jr. Peter J. Durant. No. Lydia Edwards. James B. Eldridge. Yes. Lydia Edwards. James B.
  • Driscoll Jr. Yes. Thanks. James J. Driscoll Jr. Yes. Patricia D. Jehlen? Yes. Liz Miranda. Yes.
Summary: The Senate first considered several amendments to a primary care/health care bill. Amendment 1, on artificial intelligence in health care and mental health services, was withdrawn by unanimous consent. Amendment 37, which would have required a rate band for outpatient primary care reimbursement, was debated and then defeated on a roll call, 5-33. Amendment 39, on direct primary care arrangements and deductible credits, was also defeated 5-33. The chamber then took up and passed the conference report for An Act Relative to Teachers Preparation and Student Literacy (H. 5511), with senators emphasizing the need for evidence-based literacy instruction, universal screening, dyslexia screening, teacher training, and implementation funding; the bill was enacted and sent to the Governor after a 39-0 roll call. The Senate then returned to Amendment 60 on the primary care bill, which would have created a “safety valve” allowing alternative payment systems to be proposed to the Health Policy Commission. After debate over whether the bill already allowed flexibility, the amendment was defeated 5-33. Amendment 50, requiring stronger health equity reporting, was adopted. Amendment 66, a technical fix setting commercial payment rates for community health centers at the MassHealth PPS rate, was adopted. Amendment 24, excluding pharmaceutical spending from the primary care spending baseline and target, was adopted. Amendment 45, a study on expanding the role of allied health professionals, was withdrawn. Amendment 48, a group purchasing cooperative pilot, and amendments 53, 61, and 63 were also withdrawn. The Senate adopted Amendment 64, which prohibits prior authorization from delaying FDA-approved medications for serious mental illness, and rejected Amendment 68 on reporting private equity investment in primary and specialty care, as well as Amendments 71 and 72 on scope of practice and ownership disclosure. Amendment 62, a technical change modernizing the definition of primary care and clarifying the care team, was adopted. Amendment 21, the Senate Ways and Means amendment, was then adopted, the bill was ordered to a third reading, and the Senate passed An Act relative to primary care for you (S. 3116) to be engrossed on a 35-4 roll call. The Senate then adjourned to a later date, with memorial references at adjournment.
MA
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:
  • Driscoll Jr. Peter J. Durant. Lydia Edwards. James B. Eldridge. Ryan C. Fattman. Paul R. Feeney.
  • James B. Eldridge votes yes. Senator Eldridge. Mr. President, I wish to be reported yes. James B.
  • Driscoll Jr. Peter J. Durant. Lydia Edwards. James B. Eldridge. Yes. Ryan C. Fattman. James B.
  • Driscoll Jr. Peter J. Durant. Thank you. James J. Driscoll Jr. Peter J. Durant. Lydia Edwards.
  • James B. Eldridge. Yes. Ryan C. Fattman. Paul R. Feeney. Yes. Dylan A. Fernandes. Barry R.
Summary: The Senate opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and then took up several bills and procedural matters. It adopted an emergency preamble and passed to be enacted a sick leave bank for Anisee Contreras of the Trial Court, and it also passed a bill reauthorizing the town of Swansea to issue additional on-premises liquor licenses. The chamber ordered several other bills to third reading, including a Wellesley bill on police and fire residency limits and a House bill on Commonwealth bond terms, along with multiple calendar items that were advanced without debate. The Senate then considered and passed the bill increasing access to disposable menstrual products in prisons, homeless shelters, and public schools. Senators Comerford and O'Connor spoke in strong support, describing the measure as a continuation of prior Senate action and a response to period poverty, with O'Connor highlighting community efforts by Free Period and related funding support. The bill was amended, ordered to a third reading, and passed to be engrossed by a unanimous roll call. The Senate also passed a bill on menstrual product ingredient disclosure after adopting a Ways and Means amendment; Comerford said the measure would require manufacturers to disclose ingredients and chemicals, citing concerns about PFAS and other harmful substances. That bill also passed to be engrossed by roll call. The chamber next took up a major public safety bill strengthening the move-over law. Senator Tarr described the bill as expanding protections to utility workers and disabled vehicles and adding escalating penalties, while Senator Feeney emphasized the dangers faced by workers on roadways and the need to protect them. Several proposed amendments were considered: one on municipally owned utility vehicles was adopted, while amendments on interior lights during stops, higher penalties, non-surchargeability, green lights for municipal emergency management vehicles, and public access to driving records were rejected or withdrawn. The amended bill was then ordered to a third reading and passed to be engrossed by a 39-0 roll call. The Senate also paused to honor the late Senator Edward J. Kennedy of Lowell, adopting a motion to adjourn in his memory after a tribute to his public service and community advocacy. Earlier, the chamber recognized a guest, Rocco LaGrasso, during Italian-American Heritage Month. The session ended with the Senate adjourning to meet again the following Monday at 11 a.m.
US
US

US Federal 2025-2026 Regular Session

US House Floor Proceedings (Thursday, December 18, 2025)

US Federal House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • the state of Wisconsin, where hunters like the group Hunter Nation, which is led by Ted Nan and Don Jr
  • the state of Wisconsin, where hunters like the group Hunter Nation, which is led by Ted Nan and Don Jr
  • But if Ted Nan and<03:25:21.040><c> Don</c><03:25:21.439><c> Jr.
  • ><c> the</c><03:25:22.640><c> other</c><03:25:22.880><c> folks</c><03:25:23.120><c> who</c> and Don Jr
  • . and all the other folks who and Don Jr. and all the other folks who need<03:25:23.439><c> to</c><03
Bills: HR498 , HR845 , HR1366 , HB4776
Keywords: antisemitism, Jewish safety, civil rights, hate crimes, freedom of expression, political protest, drowsy driving, road safety, public awareness, preventative measures, traffic accidents, NEPA, National Environmental Policy Act, environmental review, permitting reform, permit streamlining, infrastructure, economic development, federal agencies, categorical exclusion
MA
MA

Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

Senate Session (Full Formal with Calendar) Jun 21st, 2026 at 01:00 pm

Massachusetts Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Driscoll Jr.: No. Peter J. Durant: Yes. Peter J. Durant: Yes. Lydia Edwards: No. James B.
  • Driscoll Jr. Peter J. Durant. Yes. Lydia Edwards. Yes. Peter J. Durant? Yes. Lydia Edwards.
  • Driscoll Jr. William J. Driscoll Jr. Yes. Yes. Yes. William J. Driscoll Jr. Yes. Paul R. Feeney.
  • Driscoll Jr. Peter J. Durant. Yes. Lydia Edwards. Yes. James B. Eldridge. Yes. Ryan C. Fattman.
  • Driscoll Jr. Yes. Paul Arfini. Yes. Paul Arfini. Yes. Paul W. Mark? Mark C. Montigny? Yes.
Summary: The Senate considered a campaign finance and ballot question transparency bill, taking up a series of amendments. Several amendments offered by Senator Tarr were rejected, including proposals on safety-based redactions, standardized valuation/liability reporting, higher contribution limits, municipal ballot question reporting, tax-exempt entities in ballot campaigns, and post-election audits for all statewide elections. Amendments by Senators Rausch and DiDomenico were adopted, including late contribution reporting and retroactive reporting with an emergency preamble. Senator Feingold’s amendment to prohibit pay-per-signature arrangements for petition gathering was also adopted after a roll call vote. The bill, Senate No. 2898, An Act improving campaign finance reporting by state ballot question committees, was then passed to be engrossed by a 38-0 vote. The Senate next took up Senate No. 2903, An Act honoring Blue Star families, which would provide specialty license plates at no charge to the parent, child, or spouse of a law enforcement officer killed in the line of duty. Senators spoke in support, emphasizing the sacrifice of officers and their families, including the recent funeral of Officer Stephen LaPorteur. The bill was ordered to a third reading and then passed to be engrossed by a 38-0 vote. The chamber also approved several committee extension orders. These extended deadlines for the Committees on Aging and Independence, Education, Public Service, and Economic Development and Emerging Technologies, with members noting the limited number of bills and the need for additional time to complete review, cost analysis, or respond to commission reports. The Senate then adopted an order to meet again the following Tuesday at 11 a.m., dispensed with printing a calendar, and adjourned in memory of Stuart H. Altman.
MA
MA

Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

Senate Session (Full Formal with Calendar) Jan 15th, 2026

Massachusetts Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Driscoll Jr.: No. Peter J. Durant: Yes. Peter J. Durant: Yes. Lydia Edwards: No. James B.
  • Driscoll Jr. Peter J. Durant. Yes. Lydia Edwards. Yes. Peter J. Durant? Yes. Lydia Edwards.
  • Driscoll Jr. William J. Driscoll Jr. Yes. Yes. Yes. William J. Driscoll Jr. Yes. Yes. Paul R.
  • Driscoll Jr. Peter J. Durant. Yes. Lydia Edwards. Yes. James B. Eldridge. Yes. Ryan C. Fattman.
  • Driscoll Jr. Yes. Paul Arfini. Yes. Paul Arfini. Yes. Paul W. Mark? Mark C. Montigny? Yes.
MA
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:
  • Driscoll Jr. Peter J. Durant. Thank you. Michael Jr. Peter J. Durant. Lydia Edwards. James B.
  • Driscoll Jr. votes yes.
  • Driscoll Jr. Peter J. Durant. Thank you. Peter J. Durant. Lydia Edwards. James B. Eldridge? Yes.
  • Driscoll Jr. Peter J. Durant. Thank you. Peter J. Durant. Lydia Edwards. James B. Eldridge? Yes.
  • Driscoll Jr., Peter J. Durant, Lydia Edwards. Peter J. Durant, Lydia Edwards, James B.
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
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:
  • Driscoll Jr.: No. Peter J. Durant: Yes. Lydia Edwards. James B. Eldridge: No. Ryan C. Fattman.
  • Driscoll Jr. Peter J. Durant. Yes. Lydia Edwards. James B. Eldridge. No. Ryan C. Fattman. Paul R.
  • Driscoll Jr. Peter J. Durant, yes. Lydia Edwards. James B. Eldridge, yes. Ryan C. Fattman. Paul R.
  • Driscoll Jr. No. Peter J. Durant? Yes. Lydia Edwards. James B. Eldridge. No. No. Ryan C. Fattman.
  • Driscoll Jr.: Yes. Thanks. James J. Driscoll Jr.: Yes. Patricia D. Jehlen: Yes. Liz Miranda: Yes.
Summary: The Senate considered a series of amendments to a primary care health care bill and also took up a separate literacy bill. Several amendments were withdrawn, including one on artificial intelligence in health care and others related to cost controls, direct primary care, and provider studies. The Senate adopted amendments on preserving access to treatment for serious mental illness, modernizing the definition of primary care, clarifying payment rates for community health centers, excluding pharmaceutical spending from primary care expenditure calculations, and strengthening health equity reporting. Other amendments on rate bands, alternative payment systems, private equity reporting, scope of practice, and ownership disclosure were rejected. The Senate then approved the Ways and Means amendment and ordered the primary care bill to a third reading. The chamber also took up final passage of An Act Relative to Teachers Preparation and Student Literacy, with senators describing it as a long-awaited compromise focused on improving early reading outcomes. Supporters said the bill requires evidence-based K-3 literacy curricula, regular student screening and family notification, dyslexia screening protocols, professional development for teachers, and a free state-developed curriculum option. Senators emphasized the need to address declining third-grade reading proficiency and equity gaps. The bill passed to be enacted by a unanimous roll call and was sent to the Governor. After the literacy bill, the Senate returned to the primary care bill, where senators again debated cost containment, innovation, and access. The final version included the adopted amendments and was passed to be engrossed by a roll call vote of 35-4. The Senate then adopted an adjournment order and recessed, adjourning in memory of Henry Thomas III, former Representative Ben Swan, and Mr. Dennis Frane.
MA
MA

Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

Senate Session (Full Formal with Calendar) May 7th, 2026

Massachusetts Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Driscoll Jr. Kelly A. Dooner. Yes. William J. Driscoll Jr. Peter J. Durant. Lydia Edwards? No.
  • Driscoll Jr. Peter J. Durant. Lydia Edwards. Peter J. Durant. Lydia Edwards. No. James B. Eldridge?
  • Driscoll Jr. Peter J. Durant. Lydia Edwards. Lydia Edwards. No. James B. Eldridge? No. Ryan C.
  • Driscoll Jr. No. Peter J. Durant. Lydia Edwards. No. James B. Eldridge. No. Ryan C. Fattman? Yes.
  • Driscoll Jr. Yes. Peter J. Durant. Lydia Edwards. James B. Eldridge. Yes. Ryan C. Fattman.
Summary: The Senate took up the Protect Act, a broad immigration-related bill, and first adopted Amendment 6 offered by Senator Kennedy. Kennedy framed the amendment as strengthening protections for DDS facilities and other disability-related settings, arguing that immigrant caregivers are essential to the direct care workforce and that these spaces should be treated as sensitive care environments. The chamber also agreed to print several senators’ remarks in the journal. Members then considered a series of amendments, with many withdrawn or rejected. An effective-date amendment was adopted, while multiple amendments from Senator Tarr and Senator Keenan dealing with 287G agreements, detainers, civil arrests, notification procedures, sanctuary-related language, and other enforcement provisions were defeated. Amendment 34, expanding safe-space language to include residential schools and residential programs licensed or funded by the state, was adopted. Amendment 11 on protecting immigrant victims of crime and trafficking was not adopted. Later, the Senate adopted Amendment 10 from Senator Edwards on courthouse curtilage and Amendment 20 establishing a commission on immigration, with Edwards noting minority-party representation would be included. Amendment 13 from Senator Miranda, protecting health care workers from retaliation when acting in good faith for patients, was also adopted. A corrective amendment from Senator Friedman was adopted, and Senator Montigny used the occasion to speak about human trafficking and the need to protect victims and prosecute traffickers. After the Ways and Means recommendation was adopted, the bill was ordered to a third reading and then passed to be engrossed by a roll call vote of 37-3. The Senate then took up a House amendment to a student learning and mental health bill, rejected the House changes, and appointed a conference committee. The chamber also adopted an order to adjourn and recessed until the following Monday.
MA
MA

Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

Senate Session (Full Formal with Calendar) May 7th, 2026

Massachusetts Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Driscoll Jr. Peter J. Durant. Lydia Edwards. Peter J. Durant. Lydia Edwards. No. James B. Eldridge?
  • Driscoll Jr. votes no. Thank you, Madam President. William J. Driscoll Jr. votes no. Thank you.
  • Driscoll Jr. Peter J. Durant. Lydia Edwards. Lydia Edwards. No. James B. Eldridge? No. Ryan C.
  • Driscoll Jr. No. Peter J. Durant. Lydia Edwards. No. James B. Eldridge. No. Ryan C. Fattman? Yes.
  • Driscoll Jr. Yes. Peter J. Durant. Lydia Edwards. James B. Eldridge? Yes. Ryan C. Fatman?
MA
MA

Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

Senate Session (Full Formal with Calendar) Jan 15th, 2026

Massachusetts Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Driscoll Jr.: No. Peter J. Durant: Yes. Lydia Edwards: No. James B. Eldridge: No. Ryan C.
  • Driscoll Jr. Peter J. Durant. Yes. Lydia Edwards. Yes. Peter J. Durant. Yes. Lydia Edwards.
  • Driscoll Jr. Yes. Yes. Yes. William J. Driscoll Jr. Yes. Yes. Paul R. Feeney. Yes. Dylan A.
  • Driscoll Jr. Peter J. Durant. Yes. Lydia Edwards. Yes. James B. Eldridge. Yes. Ryan C. Fattman.
  • Driscoll Jr. Yes. Paul Arfini. Yes. Paul Arfini. Yes. Paul W. Mark? Mark C. Montigny? Yes.
Summary: The Senate took up Senate Bill 2898, a campaign finance transparency bill for state ballot question committees, and considered a series of amendments. Several amendments offered by Senator Tarr were rejected, including proposals on safety-based redactions, standardized reporting definitions, contribution limits, municipal ballot question reporting, post-election audits for all statewide elections, and tax-exempt entities in ballot campaigns. Amendments by Senators Rausch, DiDomenico, and Finegold were adopted, including late contribution reporting, retroactive reporting with an emergency preamble, regulations for preliminary costs, and a ban on pay-per-signature arrangements for signature gathering. One amendment by Senator Edwards on stronger penalties for violations was withdrawn. The Ways and Means amendment, as amended, was then adopted, the bill was ordered to third reading, and it ultimately passed to be engrossed by a 38-0 roll call vote. The Senate then considered Senate Bill 2903, an act honoring Blue Star families, which would provide specialty license plates at no charge to the parent, child, or spouse of a law enforcement officer killed in the line of duty. Senators spoke in strong support, citing the recent funeral of Officer Stephen LaPorteur of Uxbridge and the continuing grief of families of fallen officers. The bill was ordered to third reading and passed to be engrossed unanimously by a 38-0 roll call. Later, the Senate adopted several committee extension orders. These extended deadlines for the Committees on Aging and Independence, Education, Public Service, and Economic Development and Emerging Technologies, with members and committee chairs explaining the need for additional time to complete work on pending bills, review commission recommendations, and finish cost analyses. The Senate also adopted an order to adjourn to the following Tuesday at 11 a.m., and the chamber adjourned in memory of Stuart H. Altman.
MA
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:
  • Driscoll Jr., Arthur R. Driscoll II, and Gene E. Howard.
  • Driscoll Jr., Arthur R. Driscoll II, and Gene E. Howard.
  • Driscoll Jr. Peter J. Durant? Yes. Yes. Lydia Edwards. No. James B. Eldridge. No. Ryan C. Fattman.
  • Driscoll Jr. Peter J. Durant? Yes. Yes. Lydia Edwards. No. James B. Eldridge. No. Ryan C. Fatman.
  • Driscoll Jr. Peter J. Durant? Lydia Edwards. James B. Eldridge. Yes. Ryan C. Fattman. Paul Feeney.
Summary: The Senate opened with recognitions of several young climate advocates visiting the State House and then adopted an adjournment in memory of Nancy Driscoll, with remarks honoring her long public service and family legacy. The chamber then took up Senate No. 2947, An Act Regarding Fair Housing Practices in the Commonwealth, after a Ways and Means redraft. Senators supporting the bill described housing discrimination against voucher holders and Black applicants, emphasized the need for stronger enforcement, transparency, and fair housing education, and noted the bill’s goal of increasing penalties and public reporting for discriminatory brokers. Several amendments were debated. Senator Tarr offered an amendment to require annual HUD-related compliance certifications from municipalities and public agencies, notification to the Attorney General of federal findings, corrective action plans, and possible enforcement consequences; it was defeated on a roll call, 6-30. Senator Kennedy’s gender-neutral language amendment changing “salesmen” to “salespersons” was adopted. Senator Payano’s amendment to require publication of license suspensions as well as revocations for discriminatory conduct was also adopted. Senator Edwards withdrew an amendment that would have expanded housing protections for returning citizens. Senator Keenan’s amendment to anonymize complaint summaries while preserving publication of revoked licensees’ names was adopted. After the Ways and Means amendment, as amended, was adopted, the bill was ordered to a third reading and then passed to be engrossed by a unanimous roll-call vote of 37-0, later clarified as 38-0. The Senate then adopted an order to meet again the following Tuesday at 11 a.m. and adjourned in memory of John Arizian and Nancy Driscoll.
WA
WA

Washington 2025-2026 Regular Session

House Early Learning & Human Services Jan 21st, 2026

Transcript Highlights:
  • We've heard over the years that JR is a read. Operating capacity level.
  • When we're talking about JR to 25, we've heard in this bill, in last year's version of it, that JR is
  • So it's not that youth who need to be in JR can't go to JR. It's preserved easily.
  • We share your goal of safely reducing the overall JR population.
  • James, you ready this time? I'm ready. I'm prepared in advance. Good afternoon, Mr.
Summary: The committee heard testimony on House Bill 2456, which would create a juvenile firearm early intervention alternative for youth charged in juvenile court with unlawful possession of a firearm in the second degree. Staff explained that the program would require prosecutor agreement, intensive community supervision, random suspicionless searches, therapy and mentoring services, periodic court review, and dismissal of the charge upon successful completion. The bill would also raise concealed pistol license fees by $100 each and dedicate the revenue to a new account funding the alternative. Representative Davis said the bill is intended to fill the gap between firearm possession charges and later juvenile sentencing, and to fund evidence-based services; one member questioned whether the fee increase functions more like a tax than a fee. The chair then paused testimony on HB 2456 to return to the other bill. The bulk of the hearing focused on House Bill 2389, which would expand suspended disposition alternatives, reduce some juvenile robbery sentencing ranges, add a midpoint review for certain youth committed to DCYF, and create new rules for juvenile rehabilitation capacity and emergency transfers. Supporters, including youth currently or formerly in juvenile facilities, defense advocates, restorative justice providers, and some judges, argued the bill would reduce overcrowding, improve rehabilitation, address racial disparities, and give judges more individualized options. Several testified that youth need treatment, family connection, and incentives for progress rather than long confinement, and that current sentencing practices are outdated and underuse suspended dispositions. Opponents, including sheriffs, prosecutors, county officials, victim advocates, and some judges, argued the bill would shift costs and responsibility to counties, require resources that do not exist, and weaken accountability for serious offenses such as robbery, assault, and trafficking. They raised concerns about expanded appeals, added court workload, the need for more staffing and programming, and the impact on victims and public safety. DCYF said it supports reducing overcrowding but wants clearer emergency transfer authority for Green Hill; facility staff described improved conditions as population has fallen, but said overcrowding still creates safety and programming problems. No vote was taken in the portion of the hearing provided.
HI
HI

Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

HHS Public Hearing 04-13-2026

Health and Human Services

Transcript Highlights:
  • James Montgomery, also State Rehabilitation Council. James Montgomery, are you present?
  • </c><00:08:11.599><c> James</c> rehabilitation council. James rehabilitation council.
  • :16.080><c> on</c> James Montgomery, you're present on James Montgomery, you're present on Zoom.
  • Sylvia Rom's nomination is Michael Goloya Jr. Come on up. >> Good afternoon. Michael Goloya Jr.
  • Michael Goloya Jr. Heim &gt;&gt; Good afternoon. Michael Goloya Jr.
Committee: Senate Health and Human Services
Summary: The Health and Human Services Committee heard a series of gubernatorial nominations, primarily to the State Rehabilitation Council, the Policy Advisory Board for Elder Affairs (PABEA), the Hawaii State LGBTQ+ Commission, and the Center for Nursing Advisory Board. Nominees included Patrick Gartside, Judith Daniels, James Montgomery (not present), Christine Park, Tammy Napoleon, Scott Spelina, Roy Katsuda, and Dr. Sylvia Rom. Each nominee described their background and why they wanted to serve, with recurring themes of disability advocacy, vocational rehabilitation, nursing workforce development, elder issues, and LGBTQ+ health and community support. Department of Human Services and Executive Office on Aging representatives generally testified in strong support of the nominees and emphasized their qualifications and relevance to the boards’ missions. Members and agency witnesses also discussed substantive policy issues during the nominations. For PABEA nominee Scott Spelina, the committee asked about a bill involving strict liability and elder abuse-related criminal penalties; Spelina supported the approach, saying it would be easier to enforce and better protect seniors. For other nominees, testimony highlighted the need for stronger rehabilitation services, qualified vocational rehabilitation counselors, adult education partnerships, and nursing recruitment and retention, especially on Kauaʻi. Dr. Sylvia Rom’s nomination drew broad support from commission members and community supporters, with testimony focusing on LGBTQ+ health, gender-expansive youth, and intersectional advocacy. No final votes were taken during the hearing. The chair repeatedly stated that decision-making would be deferred until later in the calendar, and in some cases until the nominee was present or quorum was available. One nomination, James Montgomery, was skipped because he was not present on Zoom, and Kevin Nakamura’s nomination was also deferred to a later date. The committee accepted written and oral testimony and generally moved through the nominations without questions from members.
MA
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:
  • Driscoll Jr. Peter J. Durant? Yes. Lydia Edwards. Thank you. Peter J. Durant? Yes. Lydia Edwards.
  • James B. Eldridge? Yes. Ryan C. Fattman? Yes. Paul R. Feeney. Dylan A. Fernandes. Yes. Barry R.
  • Driscoll Jr. Peter J. Durant. Yes. Lydia Edwards. James B. Eldridge. Yes. Yes. Lydia Edwards.
  • Driscoll Jr. William J. Driscoll Jr. votes yes. Two is better than one. Please, yes.
  • Driscoll Jr. Peter J. Durant. Yes. Lydia Edwards. James B. Eldridge. Lydia Edwards. James B.
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
MA

Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

Senate Session (Full Formal with Calendar) Apr 1st, 2026

Massachusetts Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Driscoll Jr. Peter J. Durant? Yes. Lydia Edwards. Thank you. Peter J. Durant? Yes. Lydia Edwards.
  • James B. Eldridge? Yes. Ryan C. Fattman? Yes. Paul R. Feeney. Dylan A. Fernandes. Yes. Barry R.
  • Driscoll Jr. Peter J. Durant. Yes. Lydia Edwards. James B. Eldridge. Yes. Yes. Lydia Edwards.
  • Driscoll Jr. William J. Driscoll Jr. votes yes. Two is better than one. Please, yes.
  • Driscoll Jr. Peter J. Durant. Yes. Lydia Edwards. James B. Eldridge. Lydia Edwards. James B.
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.
MA
MA

Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

Senate Session (Full Formal with Calendar) Apr 1st, 2026

Massachusetts Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • James B. Eldridge? Yes. Ryan C. Fattman? Yes. Paul R. Feeney. Dylan A. Fernandes. Yes. Yes.
  • Driscoll Jr. Peter J. Durant. Yes. Lydia Edwards. James B. Eldridge. Yes. Yes. Lydia Edwards.
  • Driscoll Jr. William J. Driscoll Jr. votes yes. Two is better than one. Please, yes.
  • Driscoll Jr. Peter J. Durant. Yes. Lydia Edwards. James B. Eldridge. Lydia Edwards. James B.
  • Driscoll Jr. votes yes. Senator Collins. Nick Collins votes yes. Senator Fattman.
TX
TX

Texas 89th Regular

Land & Resource Management Apr 3rd, 2025

Land & Resource Management

Transcript Highlights:
  • Scott Norman Jr.: 14 last session that Chairman Harris had.
  • Scott Norman Jr.: Well, that could be the situation.
  • Scott Norman Jr.: That's correct. I wouldn't think so.
  • For the record, it shows you're James Mayville.
  • James Mayville: Yes, sir, that's correct. Chairman: Please proceed. James Mayville: All right, Mr.
Bills: HB602 , HB1322 , HB1930 , HB2225 , HB2304 , HB2494 , HB3275 , HB3810 , HB3919
Committee: House Land & Resource Management
Keywords: affordable housing, land use, zoning, urban planning, community development, housing crisis, mixed-use development, sustainability, municipal utility district, board of directors, qualifications, land ownership, Texas, taxation, residency, municipal approval, subdivision plans, local governance, plats, local government
TX
TX

Texas 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Mar 31st, 2025

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Guzman Jr., HR 522.
  • Dale Ralph Gonzalez, Jr. H.R. 533 by Meijer. Alfred G. Mello, Jr. H.R. 533.
  • Before by Meijer, James Darby Walker. H.R. 535 by Meijer. Andrew Stephen Masson.
  • H.R. 536 by Morales of Maverick, William Rattay Jr. H.R. 539 by Schofield, Paula K. Hughes.
  • H.R. 598 by Morales of Harris, the Honorable James Earl Carter, Jr., 39th President of the United States
MA
MA

Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

Senate Session (Full Formal with Calendar) Jul 23rd, 2026

Massachusetts Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • We have with us today Bill Owens Jr. and Shara Owens Schwartz.
  • Roy and James A. Roy of Fitchburg, his brother, Sean J.
  • Driscoll Jr. Peter J. Durant. Lydia Edwards. James B. Eldridge. Ryan C. Fattman. Thank you.
  • James B. Aldridge? Yes. Senator Moore. Michael O. Moore votes yes. I don't know the time.
  • Driscoll Jr. Peter J. Durant. Yes. Lydia Edwards. James B. Eldridge. Excuse me.
WA
WA

Washington 2025-2026 Regular Session

House Appropriations Feb 5th, 2026

Transcript Highlights:
  • We've also heard that JR is not a safe place for young people to be.
  • James? Good afternoon, Mr. Chair, members of the committee.
  • And on deck will be James Crandell and Rose Gunderson.
  • James? Good afternoon, Mr. Chair, members of the committee.
  • No, thank you very much, James.
Summary: The committee heard public hearings on several bills. HB 2675 would eliminate a number of state accounts and transfer remaining balances from two accounts to the general fund, while also changing how revenues in the Salary Insurance Contribution Increase Revolving Account are deposited; OFM testified in support and there was no public opposition. SHB 1903 would create a statewide low-income energy assistance program through the Department of Commerce, funded by the general fund and Climate Commitment Act revenues; supporters said it would address Washington’s underfunded and uneven energy assistance system, while utilities and rural co-ops raised concerns about cost, reporting burdens, utility authority, and implementation details. SHB 2384 would require actuarial reviews for certain continuing care retirement communities with prepaid life care contracts; residents and consumer advocates supported the added transparency, while providers opposed the added review costs and said they already pay for actuarial work. SHB 1982 would expand the ability of tribal members to vacate convictions tied to treaty rights, add OPD representation and a tribal liaison position, and then an amendment was described that would remove the liaison position and eliminate the fiscal impact; the sponsor and OPD supported the bill, and testimony emphasized correcting past treaty-rights convictions. The committee also heard SHB 2389, a broad juvenile justice bill that would expand suspended disposition options, create midpoint review hearings, reduce some robbery ranges, and address juvenile rehabilitation capacity and transfers. Supporters argued it would reduce racial disparities, favor community-based rehabilitation when safe, and improve outcomes, while prosecutors, sheriffs, counties, judges, cities, victim advocates, and some tribal law enforcement warned it would weaken accountability for serious violent offenses, increase court and local government burdens, and shift costs without funding. Several witnesses and the bill sponsor discussed proposed amendments, including removing presumptions and the mid-sentence review. The committee then heard SHB 2439, which would raise tobacco and vapor product license fees, create a responsible vendor program, add manufacturer certification and enforcement provisions, restrict certain products and sales practices, and redirect tobacco tax revenue to public health, cancer research, and youth prevention accounts; public health and prevention groups supported it, while retailers and industry representatives opposed the fee increases and some of the new restrictions. Finally, HB 2681 would sharply increase cannabis license fees and index them to inflation; OFM supported the change as aligning fees with program costs, while cannabis businesses and associations opposed or sought changes to the fee structure and CPI indexing. The committee also heard a briefing on SHB 2215, which would require the Caseload Forecast Council to forecast SNAP and state food assistance caseloads in light of upcoming federal cost-sharing changes; no questions were raised at the briefing.