Video & Transcript Research : 'Spaceport America'
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CA
California 2025-2026 Regular Session
Assembly Floor Session Feb 23rd, 2026
California House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands
- I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands
- The United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation, under God, indivisible
- You see, America would not be America without the contribution of Black Americans.
- thank you for helping us commemorate Black History Month celebration for their contributions to Black America
Summary:
The Assembly met with a quorum call at the start, then proceeded with Black History Month observances, including a libation ceremony, the Pledge of Allegiance, and remarks emphasizing remembrance, ancestry, and the importance of honoring Black history. The chamber also handled routine procedural matters, including dispensing with the journal, re-referring certain Senate budget items to the Budget Committee, and allowing guest introductions and other unanimous-consent requests.
The main floor action was on Assembly Concurrent Resolution 134, recognizing Black History Month. Members from multiple caucuses spoke in support, highlighting the historical contributions of Black Americans, the ongoing effects of slavery and segregation, the need to protect voting rights and education, and the importance of solidarity across communities. The resolution was adopted by voice vote after 74 co-authors were added.
The Assembly also adopted Assembly Concurrent Resolution 132, declaring February 28 as Rare Disease Day. Members shared personal stories about ALS and other rare diseases, described barriers to diagnosis, treatment, and insurance coverage, and called for more research and support. The resolution received broad bipartisan support, with 71 co-authors added before adoption by voice vote.
The chamber then recognized a series of Black History Month Unsung Heroes honorees, including community leaders, health professionals, advocates, and public servants, and later heard additional guest introductions. The meeting concluded with adjournments in memory of Peyton Trilling and John Jackson, followed by announcements and adjournment until February 26 at 9 a.m.
FL
Florida 2026 5th Special Session
Appropriations Committee on Higher Education Feb 18th, 2026
Transcript Highlights:
- boat maintenance skills, ended up joining the swim team, and being the oldest college swimmer in America
- I was in the swim team and being the oldest college swimmer in America for two years and participating
- boat maintenance skills, ended up joining the swim team, and being the oldest college swimmer in America
- for two years, and participating Thank you. in the swim team and being the oldest college swim in America
- SOUTHCOM area here in Latin America and the Caribbean to numerous countries.
Summary:
The Appropriations Committee on Higher Education convened with a quorum and first took up CS for SB 1694 on technology education. The bill would require technology-integrated postsecondary general education core courses to include digital literacy and competency instruction, including use of artificial intelligence tools, and would encourage high school computer science courses that include AI to teach how AI systems use data, their benefits and limitations, and responsible use in academic and personal settings. The bill sponsor and several supporters emphasized preparing students for an AI-driven workforce while teaching critical evaluation and ethical use; one speaker raised concerns about overreliance on AI and the need to preserve real-world skills. Senator Davis supported the measure and suggested introducing similar instruction earlier, possibly in middle school. The committee voted the bill favorably, with Senator Leak later recorded in the affirmative.
The committee then heard a large block of confirmations for higher education boards, including appointees to Tallahassee State College, the University of South Florida, the University of North Florida, Palm Beach State College, the College of the Florida Keys, Hillsborough College, Miami-Dade College, Florida A&M University, Florida Gulf Coast University, Florida International University, New College of Florida, Florida Polytechnic University, and the University of Florida. The appointees generally highlighted backgrounds in education, health care, law, business, technology, and public service, and described priorities such as student success, workforce alignment, affordability, fiscal responsibility, and institutional growth. One nominee to Tallahassee State College was asked about low NCLEX pass rates and said the college had a plan approved by the Florida Board of Nursing. Another nominee discussed Florida Poly’s STEM mission, and several members praised the nominees’ community ties and professional experience.
After hearing the appointees, the committee voted to report the block of confirmations favorably to the Ethics and Elections Committee. The committee then received a high-level overview of the higher education budget, totaling $11.9 billion, with major emphasis on workforce training and development. Highlights included increases for school district workforce education, the Florida College System, workforce development capitalization, a rural educator recruitment program, funding for the USF Center for Nursing, preeminent research universities, UCF’s community school grant program, UF’s literacy and math initiatives, UF’s autism and neurodevelopment center, and a postsecondary guardian program for campus security. Members asked a brief question about a workforce fund transfer, and the chair explained it was a transfer of an existing program with new funds added. No public comment was offered, and the meeting adjourned.
AZ
Transcript Highlights:
- I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands
- Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, Arizona chapters of the Hearing Loss Association of America
- Today I rise in support of the best and most effective Attorney General in the United States of America
- when it comes to law enforcement, Attorney General Chris Mays has a record that the United States of America
- in support of, in my opinion, the best and most effective Attorney General in the United States of America
Summary:
The House opened with prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, and a moment of silence honoring two Arizona Department of Public Safety personnel killed in a helicopter crash while responding to an active shooter incident in Flagstaff. Members also introduced numerous guests and Capitol Day visitors, including the Arizona Society of Anesthesiologists, the Arizona Dental Hygienists Association, and organizations serving deaf, hard of hearing, and deaf-blind Arizonans. A proclamation was read designating September 4 as Taekwondo Day in Arizona.
The chamber then processed a large number of bills through first reading, second reading, and Committee of the Whole. Measures receiving due-pass recommendations included HB 2075, HB 2120, HB 2155, HB 2328, HR 2004, HB 2051, HB 2072, HB 2178, HB 2203, HB 2395, HB 2010, HB 2043, HB 2108, HB 2135, and HB 2310. Several bills drew substantive debate, including HB 2051 and HB 2072 on lactation services and consultant certification for Medicaid reimbursement, HB 2203 on eliminating duplicative reporting requirements, HB 2395 on a voluntary mental health-related measure, and HB 2043, which sparked a sharp partisan exchange over whether it was a cleanup to felony-murder statutes or an anti-abortion/personhood measure.
On third reading, HB 2008, dealing with school libraries and public funding for library associations, passed 33-25 after debate over whether it would help keep ideology out of schools or further weaken library support. House Resolution 2004, a nonbinding resolution expressing disapproval of Attorney General Chris Mays’ public statements, also passed 33-25 after extensive floor debate over her comments, her record on law enforcement and consumer protection, and whether the resolution was appropriate. The House then adopted the Committee of the Whole reports, referred the passed measures for engrossing, and adjourned until Monday, February 9, 2026.
MS
Mississippi 2026 Regular Session
MS Senate Floor - 21 January, 2026; 10:00 AM
Mississippi Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- Indeed, we are extremely grateful that you have given to these United States of America a democratic
- these United that you have given to these United States<00:11:19.519>
of <00:11:19.839>America - States of America States of America a<00:11:22.000>
democratic <00:11:22.720>form < - Please join me for the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic
- To the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation, indivisible
Summary:
The Senate convened with a quorum present, received an invocation from Reverend Jerry Young of New Hope Baptist Church, and then took the pledge of allegiance led by Senator Mumford. The chamber quickly dispensed with the reading of the journal, committee reports, and bill and resolution titles, and there were no messages or petitions. Several guests were introduced, including the doctor of the day, a William Carey University student, a county sheriff, the senator’s wife, students and church members from New Hope Christian School and New Hope Baptist Church, physical therapists and assistants from the Mississippi chapter of the American Physical Therapy Association, and former Senator Chris Massie.
The main floor action was on Senate Resolution No. 2, which commended and congratulated the 2025 Jackson Academy Raider football team and head coach David Dugen for winning the MHSAA 4A Division I state championship. The resolution was adopted by voice vote after the title was read, and floor privileges were granted to the team. Coach Dugen addressed the Senate, thanking Senator Chassaniol, the school, families, coaches, and supporters, and describing the championship as the result of discipline, teamwork, and player leadership. The team presented a gift to Senator Chassaniol, and senators offered congratulations.
During announcements, senators noted several upcoming committee meetings and events, including White Coat Day at the Capitol, the Mississippi Ambulance Alliance reception, an Empower Mississippi summit, and multiple appropriations and committee hearings. Several senators also requested that the Senate adjourn in memory of individuals including John Guthrie, Colonel Jean Smith, Regina Roberts, and Brenda Le. Later, Senator Michelle and Senator Blackwell were added as co-authors to SR 2 without objection. The President announced that more than 500 bills had been assigned, that the Senate would not meet on Friday, and that the body would still meet Monday afternoon despite possible winter weather. The Senate then adopted a motion to stand in recess until 5:00 p.m., with the journal to reflect adjournment until 10:00 a.m. the next day.
CA
California 2025-2026 Regular Session
Assembly Floor Session Jun 16th, 2025
California House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- This horrifying act of political violence has no place in America.
- I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic.
- Thank you. of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation, under
- There is no America without folks who were enslaved. That is a truth.
- Emily was chapter vice president and sectional president for Future Farmers of America and Miss Kings
Summary:
The Assembly met after a quorum call and opened with a prayer, a Father’s Day reflection, and a moment of silence for the victims of the Minnesota lawmaker shooting. Members then moved through guest introductions recognizing student legislative programs, Black conservation leaders, interns, and first responders, including an off-duty firefighter who saved a driver’s life. The chamber also heard multiple adjournment-in-memory tributes, most notably for former Senator and Los Angeles Councilman Nate Holden, whose civil rights and housing discrimination work was highlighted, along with tributes to Stephen Golden Kranz, Emily Carpenter, and Doug Kranwinkel.
On the Daily File, the Assembly adopted ACR 90, Assembly Member Gibson’s resolution recognizing Juneteenth. The measure drew strong support from multiple caucuses, including the Latino, Jewish, LGBTQ, Women’s, and AAPI caucuses, with members emphasizing Juneteenth’s historical significance, the legacy of slavery, and the continuing need to combat racism and inequality. The resolution was adopted by voice vote after 66 co-authors were added.
The Assembly also adopted ACR 92, Assembly Member Mark Gonzalez’s resolution declaring June 2025 as Electronic Dance Music Month in California. Supporters described EDM as a cultural and economic force rooted in diverse communities and praised its values of inclusion and unity; the resolution received 65 co-authors and passed by voice vote. Finally, HR 45, Assembly Member Castillo’s resolution for Animal Rights Awareness Week, was adopted by voice vote after 55 co-authors were added, with the author and a guest from Sierra Pacific Fur Babies speaking about animal rescue and welfare work. The session ended with announcements and adjournment until June 19.
MN
Transcript Highlights:
- Uh, $200,000 is transferred one time into the Help America Vote Act account to provide a match for federal
- ><00:01:35.680>
Help transferred one time into the Help transferred one time into the Help America - 36.960>
account <00:01:37.360>to <00:01:37.600>provide <00:01:38.079>a America - Vote Act account to provide a America Vote Act account to provide a match<00:01:38.560>
for <00 - And so these funds will be used, along with our other Help America Vote Act funds, for three primary
FL
Florida 2025 Regular Session
March 18, 2025 - 03:00 PM
Transcript Highlights:
- We have Gerald Jed Carroll, Gun Owners of America.
- God bless America. I love it too. Okay. Next up we have Jim Spratt. Hey, Jim Spratt.
- Gerald Jed Carroll, Gun Owners of America, is an opponent of the bill.
- I'm Florida's deputy director for Gun Owners of America. My name is Jed Carroll.
- I'm Florida's deputy director for Gun Owners of America.
Summary:
The Housing, Agriculture and Tourism Subcommittee heard and advanced several bills. HB 615, allowing landlords to send required notices electronically with tenant written consent, was amended to allow either landlords or tenants to send messages electronically and passed favorably after testimony from legal aid and tenant advocates urging stronger opt-in, opt-out, and notice protections. HB 665, dealing with local government impact fees and development permits, would limit certain art-related impact fees, define “extraordinary circumstances,” and require more public process before fee increases; it passed after local government and industry testimony focused on refining the extraordinary-circumstances definition and concerns about public art funding. HB 365, a tenant protection bill for affordable housing units receiving public incentives, was amended to apply only to leases of 13 months or less and to take effect in July 2026; it passed with support from housing advocates and AARP and was described as preventing mid-lease rent increases while preserving renewal-time adjustments. HB 381, requiring issuance of addresses and parcel identification numbers within a set timeframe, was amended to extend the deadline to 20 business days and shift the fee consequence to the address fee rather than the building permit fee; it passed after discussion about delays affecting developers and local government responsibility.
WY
Wyoming 2026 Regular Session
House Special Investigative Committee, February 26, 2026
House Special Investigative Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- tomorrow night, little America. tomorrow night, little America.
- evening at Little America evening at Little America and<02:15:22.560>
uh <02:15:23.760> - I wish everyone in America had a friend like him.
- They'll do anything. as lobbying at uh the little America. It as lobbying at uh the little America.
- presentation in at the little America. presentation in at the little America.
MN
Minnesota 2025 1st Special Session
House Workforce, Labor, and Economic Development Finance and Policy Committee 3/25/25
Workforce, Labor, and Economic Development Finance and Policy
Transcript Highlights:
- Uh, and finally, we're planning to open a popup store at the Mall of America with the goal of providing
- Uh, and finally, we're planning to open a popup store at the Mall of America with the goal of providing
- Uh, and finally, we're planning to open a popup store at the Mall of America with the goal of providing
- Uh, and finally, we're planning to open a popup store at the Mall of America with the goal of providing
- <00:48:36.079>
with popup store at the Mall of America with popup store at the Mall of America
Keywords:
tourism, World Junior Hockey Championships, funding, economic impact, sports events, Minnesota, economic development, livability, marketing, partnerships, labor and industry, electrical licensing, electrical inspection, continuing education, online course approval, Internet continuing education, power limited technician, maintenance electrician, master electrician, technology circuits
MN
Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session
Elect Committee Meeting - 2026-03-11
Elections Finance and Government Operations
Transcript Highlights:
- , center bigger than Mall of America, center bigger than Mall of America, bigger<00:07:28.400>
- I represent the Mall of America.
- I represent the<00:36:12.240>
Mall <00:36:12.480>of <00:36:12.640>America. - I did for 5 years the Mall of America.
- Um, and so to to the Mall of America.
Keywords:
municipal nondisclosure agreement, NDA, public records, transparency, local government, county, city, town, school district, housing and redevelopment authority, economic development authority, port authority, economic development, land development, public financing, tax increment financing, TIF, abatement, municipal bonds, debt obligations
MN
Transcript Highlights:
- One could hear that and say, 'There it is, they're teaching kids that America is hopelessly racist.'
- One could hear that and say, 'There it is, they're teaching kids that America is hopelessly racist.'
- It's called *Ma America*.
- <00:34:37.720>
is continue to push that that America is continue to push that that America - You know, somebody made a reference of a book today about America.
MN
Transcript Highlights:
- This bill doesn't go in the opposite direction of what's trending now in America.
- This bill doesn't go in the opposite direction of what's trending now in America.
- If that were true, America would be the safest country in the world.
- If that were true, America would be the safest country in the world.
Summary:
The committee took up House File 4362, which would allow Minnesota public colleges and universities to prohibit visitors from carrying firearms on campus, similar to existing policies that already apply to students and employees. The bill’s author argued it was a modest step to help campuses protect staff and students from gun violence, citing the long history of school shootings and saying the decision should be left to each institution. Supporters, including representatives of the Inter Faculty Organization and Minnesota State College Faculty, said the current law leaves a loophole because campuses can restrict students and employees but not visitors, and they pointed to data and incidents suggesting many campus shootings involve non-affiliated individuals.
Opponents, including the NRA Minnesota state director and the Minnesota Gun Owners Caucus, argued the bill would create ineffective gun-free zones, disarm lawful permit holders, and expand firearm restrictions across large and sometimes unclear areas of public property. They also raised concerns about notice, due process, and the claim that criminals would ignore the restrictions. In member discussion, supporters emphasized campus safety, institutional discretion, and the responsibility to protect students, while opponents stressed Second Amendment rights and existing campus carry trends in other states.
After discussion, the chair announced a roll call vote on the motion to refer House File 4362 to the Public Safety Committee. The motion failed on a 7-7 tie, and the bill was not referred onward.
MS
Mississippi 2026 Regular Session
MS Senate Floor - 23 February, 2026; 4:00 PM
Mississippi Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- Please join me in the pledge to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which
- ><00:05:16.240>
of to the flag of the United States of to the flag of the United States of America - 17.840>
the <00:05:18.080>republic <00:05:18.720>for <00:05:19.039>it America - and to the republic for it America and to the republic for it stands<00:05:20.320>
one <00:05:
Summary:
The Senate convened with a quorum present, received an invocation from Reverend Tony Chrysler, and recited the Pledge of Allegiance. Routine motions were adopted to dispense with reading the journal, committee reports, and bill and resolution titles. The chamber also recognized Dr. Scott Hamilton as doctor of the day and welcomed a group from the Hancock County Youth Academy to the gallery.
On the calendar, several items were passed over and retained, including items one through six on the finance calendar, a motion to reconsider Senate Bill 3053, and House Bill 1076. No substantive debate on those measures was recorded in this segment. The Senate then moved into announcements.
Announcements included a capital prayer gathering the next morning, the Mississippi Legislative Sportsman’s Caucus catfish dinner, an appropriations committee meeting, a joint appropriations/IT meeting to discuss statewide computer and technology issues, a finance committee meeting, and notices that Insurance and Judiciary Division B would not meet the next morning. Members also requested that the Senate adjourn in memory of several individuals, including Jimmy Scott McMon of Starkville, Mary Margaret Casease of Oxford, Brent Coleman of Sebast, and Leila Bea Keys of Clarksdale and Robera Jameson of Marks. The Senate voted to stand in recess until 5:00 p.m., with the journal to reflect adjournment until 10:00 a.m. the following morning.
NY
New York 2025-2026 Regular Session
New York State Senate Session - 02/03/2026
New York Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands
- I rise today to recognize the outstanding students and advisers of Future Farmers of America.
- I rise today to recognize the outstanding students and advisers of Future Farmers of America.
- I rise today to recognize the outstanding students and advisers of Future Farmers of America.
Summary:
The Senate opened with the Pledge of Allegiance, approved the prior Journal, and then handled several introductions and resolutions. Senator Bailey introduced Jayson Fefami, described as the Bronx-based creator of the “quarter zip” trend, and the chamber welcomed him with applause. Senator Cooney presented a privileged resolution memorializing Governor Hochul to proclaim July 1, 2026, as Canada Day in New York, emphasizing the state’s economic, cultural, and border ties with Canada; the resolution was adopted. Senator Hinchey also spoke on a previously adopted resolution designating February 21-28, 2026, as National FFA Organization Week, with Senator Helming and visiting FFA students and advisers offering remarks in support of agricultural education and youth leadership.
The Senate then took up the calendar and passed a series of bills, including measures related to a fiscal task force, environmental conservation, urban development, education, workers’ compensation, elder law, real property, general business, state finance, insurance, tenant protection, and public health. Several bills passed unanimously, while others drew limited opposition; for example, the Environmental Conservation and Education measures had a handful of negative votes, and the real property bill drew more substantial opposition. Senator Webb explained her vote on a bill addressing college student food insecurity by exempting certain meal-share donations from sales tax, saying students should not have to choose between class and hunger. Senator Palumbo also explained his vote on the kratom labeling bill, supporting the measure while urging future action on the synthetic opioid 7-OH.
The chamber also discharged several identical Assembly bills from Rules and substituted Senate versions earlier in the day, and later passed those measures on the floor. At the end of the session, the Senate completed the calendar, reported no further business, and adjourned until Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at 3:00 p.m.
CA
California 2025-2026 Regular Session
Assembly Floor Session Jan 22nd, 2026
California House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands
- previously served as the director of government relations for the Armenian National Committee of America
- previously served as the director of government relations for the Armenian National Committee of America
- service and fueled his lifelong gratitude to the community that gave his family its start here in America
Summary:
The Assembly convened, established a quorum after a roll call, and opened with a prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance. Routine procedural motions followed, including unanimous-consent actions to suspend rules for adjournment-in-memory remarks, guest introductions, and expedited floor processing of certain bills and committee reports. The chamber also recognized several guests, including Sacramento Police Detective Jason Collins, student musician Ethan Shue, and Glendale Councilmember Artie Kasakian.
On the floor file, AB 1184 by Assembly Member Patterson, the Homeowner Association Accountability and Transparency Act of 2026, was presented as a measure to add basic transparency requirements for HOAs; it passed 56-0. AB 871 by Assembly Member Stephanie, addressing financial elder abuse and scam reporting/training for financial institutions, also passed 56-0. On the Senate side, SB 25 by Senator Umberg, which would give the California Attorney General earlier access to federal merger-notification filings to streamline merger review, passed 43-14 after the Majority Leader presented it.
The Assembly then held several adjournment-in-memory tributes, including Paul R. Ignatius, former U.S. Secretary of the Navy and Glendale native; Oxnard Police Commander Scott Aaron; Private First Class Tanner F. Rubio of the U.S. Marine Corps; and former Yolo County Supervisor Betsy Marchand. Members and family guests offered remarks honoring their service and legacies, followed by a moment of silence for PFC Rubio. The session concluded with announcements about upcoming floor and committee deadlines and adjourned until Monday, January 26 at 1 p.m.
MS
Mississippi 2026 Regular Session
MS Senate Floor - 19 January, 2026; 4:00 PM
Mississippi Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the stand for all right here.
- <00:08:25.039>
United <00:08:25.440>States <00:08:25.840>of <00:08:26.000>America - United States of America and the flag.
- United States of America and to<00:08:27.440>
the <00:08:28.639>stand for<00:08:34.320>
Summary:
The Senate opened with a roll call that established a quorum, followed by an invocation by Pastor Robert Hulet of Agape Church in South Haven and the pledge of allegiance led by Senator Jackson. The body then dispensed with the reading of the journal, committee reports, and bill titles. Several guests were introduced, including family members of Senators Carter and Thomas, and the chamber recognized a state flag flown in honor of Daniel Hudson Sparks.
The main item of business was Senate Bill 2017, the repeal of various obsolete commissions. Senator McConn explained that the bill, as amended by a committee substitute, would repeal 22 boards and commissions that had not met, had not filed minutes, or had not carried out their intended functions. Senator Norwood asked about a $47,000 item tied to the Status of Women Commission, and McConn said he believed the money had been appropriated but likely not spent because the commission had not met. The committee substitute was adopted, and the bill passed on final passage by afternoon roll call.
The Senate then moved to announcements, including a rules committee meeting after recess, a capital prayer group meeting the next morning, a finance committee meeting with a PERS presentation, and an appropriations subcommittee meeting. Senators also requested that the chamber adjourn in memory of several individuals, including Wesley Balden, Carl Wyers, and Joe Fernald. With roughly 300 to 350 bills reported as filed, the Senate recessed until the last bill was filed, with the journal to reflect adjournment until 10:00 a.m. the next morning.
KY
Kentucky 2026 Regular Session
Senate Legislative Session, Day 2 (1-7-26)
Kentucky Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands
- algiance to the flag of the United<00:02:40.720>
States <00:02:41.120>of <00:02:41.360>America - <00:02:42.319>
and <00:02:42.560>to <00:02:42.800>the United States of America - and to the United States of America and to the republic<00:02:43.599>
for <00:02:43.920>which
Summary:
The Senate convened with prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, then completed the roll call and confirmed a quorum. The journal from Tuesday, January 6, 2026, was approved without objection. No committee reports or floor amendments were presented.
Members introduced a series of new measures, including bills on parentage fraud, a state dog breed designation, pharmacist reimbursement, fishing in privately owned lakes and ponds, public library district boards, ad valorem tax rates, energy planning, Kentucky Fire Commission appropriations and an emergency clause, agritourism, school transportation and an emergency clause, end-of-line-of-duty death benefits, mandatory re-entry supervision, battery stewardship, and a joint resolution declaring Kentucky a “food is medicine” state. Several memorial resolutions were also introduced honoring Leonard Len Marian Spalding Jr., Dixie P. Hibbs, and Brian J. Hat.
During announcements, senators noted evening receptions at Government Strategies and Top Shelf, and reminded members about workplace harassment training the next day followed by a bipartisan lunch. Co-sponsorship requests were approved without objection for Senate Resolution 7 and Senate Bills 21, 17, and 22. The Senate then adjourned without objection until 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 8, 2026, after a final announcement about the Governor’s State of the Commonwealth address.
CA
California 2025-2026 Regular Session
Joint Convention of the California Legislature State of the Judiciary Mar 18th, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands
- court has helped chart the Golden State to be one of the most successful in the United States of America
- And it's this judicial independence that separates the United States of America And it's this judicial
- independence that separates the United States of America from the rest of the free world.
Summary:
The California Legislature met in joint convention for the annual State of the Judiciary address, with judges and justices from across the state in attendance along with Governor Newsom and other statewide officials. The opening included prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by the formal introduction of Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero and the California Supreme Court justices. Speakers emphasized the importance of judicial independence, the courts’ role in protecting rights and democracy, and the value of collaboration between the legislative and judicial branches.
Chief Justice Guerrero focused on the state of the judicial branch, beginning with budget pressures from prior cuts and noting partial restoration in the governor’s proposed budget, while urging continued stable funding for courts, court-appointed counsel, and judgeships in high-need counties. She highlighted the expansion and benefits of remote proceedings, ongoing judicial vacancies, workload growth, and efforts to improve data collection and case-weighting. She also discussed implementation of the CARE Act, the court interpreter workforce pilot, CASA and kin-first child welfare efforts, courthouse security and facilities projects, and the judiciary’s work on generative AI guardrails.
A major portion of the address addressed the recent problems with the California bar exam and broader State Bar oversight. Guerrero said the court would pursue remedies for examinees harmed by the failures and would strengthen admissions oversight, including the role of the Committee of Bar Examiners. She also reiterated support for pro bono legal services and discussed immigration-related courthouse access, citing state laws limiting cooperation with federal immigration enforcement in courthouses. The convention concluded after remarks thanking the judiciary and Legislature, and the joint session adjourned without any recorded votes or formal legislative action.
MA
Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session
Combatting Antisemitism Jun 21st, 2026 at 11:00 am
Transcript Highlights:
- Romani people, as well as mass killings of many other communities, anti-German prejudice spiked in America
- In America and elsewhere, Jews divided and argued over the idea of whether there should be a Jewish state
- . into our school system, systems writ large here in the Commonwealth in the United States of America
- We all know that anti-Semitism is a real and dangerous presence in America.
- And we have all witnessed that firsthand in America.
Summary:
The commission held a public comment hearing as it continued work toward a November 30 statutory deadline for its final report. The co-chairs reviewed logistics for the hybrid format, two-minute testimony limit, respectful conduct, and the plan to alternate between in-person and virtual speakers. The commission approved the minutes from its previous September 8 meeting by motion and vote, with no nays. Much of the testimony focused on how the commission should define antisemitism, especially whether to adopt the IHRA definition and whether it improperly conflates antisemitism with criticism of Israel or Zionism.
Many speakers, including Jewish educators, rabbis, academics, students, and legislators, described personal experiences with antisemitism and urged the commission to address hate while protecting free speech, academic freedom, and the ability to criticize Israeli government policy. Several called for the commission to reject or narrow the IHRA definition and instead consider the Jerusalem Declaration or other frameworks that distinguish antisemitism from anti-Zionism. Others emphasized that antisemitism should be addressed alongside racism, Islamophobia, white nationalism, and other forms of bias, and some urged broader anti-bias training in schools. A smaller number of speakers supported stronger action against antisemitism in schools and public institutions, including concerns about antisemitic materials in education and about organizations or events they viewed as promoting hate.
A recurring theme was the conflict in Gaza and its impact on the debate: some speakers condemned Israel’s military actions as genocide, apartheid, or colonialism and said criticism of those actions should not be treated as antisemitic, while others defended Israel, rejected genocide claims, and argued that anti-Israel activism can fuel antisemitism. Several speakers also raised concerns about campus discipline, union materials, and state facility rentals, and one speaker asked that state resources not be used by groups they viewed as inciting hate. No additional votes or formal actions were taken beyond approving the prior minutes and hearing public testimony.
MA
Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session
Formal House Session 28 Jun 21st, 2026 at 11:00 am
Massachusetts House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- asked to remain standing and join in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America
- : “I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands
- In 1996, the Contract with America, if you remember the Contract with America, the Republican Congress
- We came here believing in the promise of America that if you work hard, contribute to your community,
- America is a nation of immigrants, a symbol of courage and freedom for 250 years.
Summary:
The House first handled several routine matters, including adoption of a birthday resolution honoring Caroline San Martino Moran and suspension of Joint Rule 12 to allow consideration of a petition involving the City of Waltham and the Veterans Memorial Rink. It also advanced two local bills: one authorizing DCAMM to release a sewer line easement in West Roxbury, and another relative to the town administrator of Carlisle. Both bills were amended by Ways and Means and ordered to third reading or engrossed as amended. The chamber also passed a memorial-marker bill for fallen law enforcement officers in Milton and Canton.
The main floor debate centered on House Bill 5305, the “Protect Act,” which was presented as a measure to limit state and local involvement in federal civil immigration enforcement, restrict ICE access in courthouses and other sensitive locations, strengthen notice and language-access protections for detainees and workers, and expedite U and T visa certifications. Supporters, including members of the Black and Latino Caucus and other legislators, argued the bill would protect due process, encourage victims and witnesses to come forward, preserve public trust, and keep local police focused on criminal matters. They cited courthouse arrests, fear in immigrant communities, and the need for clearer boundaries between state and federal authority.
Several amendments were offered and voted on during consideration of H.5305. An amendment to strike Section 4 was rejected, as were amendments seeking to alter the courthouse enforcement provisions and to recognize immigration judge warrants. Other amendments were adopted, including one clarifying sheriff-related provisions, one expanding language around release dates, one adding protections related to school settings, and one expediting U visa certification for family members aging out. A roll call was taken on the bill and on multiple amendments, with the House ultimately adopting the amendments described and continuing consideration of the bill as amended.