Video & Transcript Research : 'confirmation process'
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FL
Florida 2025 Regular Session
Appropriations Committee on Agriculture, Environment, and General Government Apr 10th, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- Streamlining the removal process for these vessels is a pressing need to removal process for these vessels
- They are subject to the standard derelict vessel investigation process.
- How long does a restoration process takes?
- How long is that process?
- And by your vote, please show the confirmation of appointees on tabs.
MN
Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session
Conference Committee on S.F. 1832 - Jobs and Labor Omnibus - 05/14/25
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- What completely defies understanding is that DSHS has confirmed that, as of this week, Camp Mystic has
- Vice Chair Perry was alluding to this, our investigation generally confirms the appropriateness of all
- And finally, to confirm the importance of actually doing all of these things, the camp was required to
- And we'll confirm this is required by the plain text of the Texas Administrative Code, as I showed you
- , which is really a process that Texas is known for, that we review our agencies every 12 years, and
MN
Transcript Highlights:
- c><00:10:49.080>
patients process, there's a policy, patients process, there's a policy, patients - these processes. these processes.
- So, we really if we're trying to often it confirms it, and it requires often it confirms it, and it requires
- confirm that. confirm that.
- Gildemeister can probably confirm that.
Bills:
HF4343
Keywords:
sales tax, use tax, advertising tax, taxable services, digital advertising, online marketing, marketing services, search engine marketing, lead generation, internet advertising, ad agency, media buying, campaign planning, Minnesota tax law, service tax, broadening tax base, web advertising, promotional services, 1183, house
NM
New Mexico 2026 Regular Session
House - Appropriations and Finance Feb 14th, 2026 at 10:04 am
House Appropriations & Finance
Transcript Highlights:
- And just confirming, can I have a motion and a second to discuss the amendment, please?
- And as we all know, it's not as efficient a process.
- We go to a multi-hearing process across the state.
- Representative, could you confirm the 202 number on the amendment?
- I want to confirm that we have not yet seen the Senate Bill online.
Summary:
During the legislative meeting, House Bill 287 was discussed, which proposes the establishment of a permanent Health and Human Services Committee to oversee the state's $14.4 billion expenditure in this area. An amendment to the bill was adopted, which clarified funding and operational details. Public comments were solicited, but no one spoke in opposition. The committee ultimately voted, with some members expressing concerns about budget implications, but the motion to pass the bill as amended was made and seconded, with several members opposing it.
House Bill 371 was also addressed, which focuses on creating an Acequia Infrastructure Fund to support land grant and Acequia communities. The bill aims to provide a financial mechanism for these communities to access funds for infrastructure projects without relying on capital outlay requests. The committee discussed the bill's implications, potential funding sources, and the need for further amendments regarding representation and oversight. A motion to pass the bill was made, with some opposition noted, particularly regarding the lack of specificity in the bill's provisions.
Lastly, Senate Bill 143 was presented, which seeks to raise the caps on inspection fees under the Egg Grading Act, among other agricultural regulations. Supportive testimony was provided by representatives from agricultural organizations, emphasizing the need for updated fee structures. The committee engaged in discussions about the bill's implications for consumers and the agricultural sector, ultimately moving towards a vote to pass the bill.
HI
Transcript Highlights:
- Governor's Message 514 and 515 submit for consideration and confirmation John For consideration and confirmation
- During his nomination process, Mr. E. T.
- Uh through that process, he's committed Uh through that process, he's committed to emphasizing that electric
- I had the opportunity of confirming Mr.
- If not, said nominees for governor's messages have been confirmed.
Bills:
HB1800, HB1860, HB2250, HB472, HB649, HB1391, HB1481, HB1509, HB1511, HB1515, HB1518, HB1541, HB1548, HB1576, HB1618, HB1642, HB1643, HB1661, HB1667, HB1678, HB1682, HB1688, HB1692, HB1707, HB1710, HB1711, HB1713, HB1718, HB1721, HB1728, HB1737, HB1740, HB1741, HB1785, HB1801, HB1802, HB1804, HB1810, HB1815, HB1824, HB1838, HB1839, HB1853, HB1854, HB1864, HB1870, HB1881, HB1888, HB1890, HB1891, HB1894, HB1920, HB1959, HB1960, HB1969, HB1973, HB1974, HB2023, HB2050, HB2078, HB2094, HB2095, HB2104, HB2137, HB2152, HB2158, HB2171, HB2207, HB2218, HB2246, HB2270, HB2271, HB2272, HB2279, HB2282, HB2289, HB2293, HB2297, HB2300, HB2309, HB2310, HB2314, HB2319, HB2329, HB2338, HB2339, HB2344, HB2361, HB2385, HB2395, HB2417, HB2429, HB2443, HB2452, HB2474, HB2475, HB2498, HB2505, HB2547, HB2576
Keywords:
supplemental appropriations, state budget, Hawaii budget, biennial budget, capital improvement projects, CIP, general fund, special fund, green fee, special land and development fund, clean energy revolving loan fund, agricultural development revolving fund, community grants, nonprofit grants, Office of Community Services, housing, affordable housing, homelessness, health care, mental health
CO
Colorado 2026 Regular Session
Colorado Senate 2026 Legislative Day 044 Feb 27th, 2026
Colorado Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- <00:33:55.600>
Member consent calendar and confirmed. - Member consent calendar and confirmed.
- Department of Corrections has been part of the stakeholdering process.
- process. It really just um is making it process.
- Those appointments are confirmed. Uh, announcements. Senator Danielson. Thank you, Mr. President.
Summary:
The Senate convened with a quorum, approved the corrected February 25, 2026 journal, and received a series of committee reports. Those reports advanced several bills, including SB 110, SB 20, SB 115, SB 61, SB 35, SB 26, and SB 3, while SB 24 was postponed indefinitely. The chamber also confirmed or placed on the consent calendar several appointments, including reappointments to the boards of Fort Lewis College and the University of Northern Colorado, and later confirmed appointments to the Clean Fleet Enterprise.
The Senate elected Senator Kathy Kip as President Pro Tem by a vote of 21-12. It then took up SJR 013, recognizing Youth Mental Health Action Day, which was adopted 33-0 after remarks emphasizing youth suicide, rural behavioral health needs, and the importance of expanding access to mental health care. The Senate also passed SB 37, allowing local elected judicial officers to set weekend bonds, and SB 84, concerning privileges for certain state entities in connection with the state auditor’s fraud hotline.
In the Committee of the Whole, the Senate passed HB 1035 on second reading and HB 1064, concerning modifications to the youthful offender system, after adopting amendment L004. The House bill on youthful offenders was described as clarifying Department of Corrections contracting and helping youth with disabilities participate in YOS programming. The Senate also confirmed appointments to the Institute of Cannabis Research Governing Board. Several items were laid over, including SB 53, SB 43, and SB 21, and the chamber recessed until 11:30 a.m.
OK
Oklahoma 2026 Regular Session
Health and Human Services REVISED Apr 30th, 2026 at 01:00 pm
Health and Human Services
Transcript Highlights:
- I consider it an honor to be confirmed, and I appreciate the fact that it's just the appointment.
- So we spent a long time together prior to me agreeing to run this nomination and confirmation.
- That process will go through, and we will work very diligently to make sure that the agency is in a good
- We will continue to look at every MCO process that we have.
- I would ask that you please consider confirming Clayton Bullard.
MN
Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session
Commerce committee approves bill to eliminate prohibition of cadmium in some products 3/5/25
Transcript Highlights:
- We are in the process of engaging with the MPCA on behalf of the Art and Creative Materials Institute
- We are in the process of engaging with the MPCA on behalf of the Art and Creative Materials Institute
- <00:23:36.200>
of Association we are in the process of Association we are in the process of - He asked for confirmation from nonpartisan staff for the committee's benefit. Mr.
- <00:41:42.359>
for <00:41:42.520>the to just get confirmation for the to just get confirmation
Summary:
The committee took up House File 737, which would amend Minnesota’s lead- and cadmium-related product restrictions and was re-referred to the Committee on Environment, Finance and Policy. Representative Bjorn Olson said the bill was prompted by a constituent who could no longer make cadmium-based art supplies in Minnesota, and he argued the law unintentionally swept in professional art materials that are used safely and are important to Western art culture. The committee first adopted the author’s A2 amendment, which broadened the bill to include additional exemptions beyond paint and pastels, including certain pens, mechanical pencils, and vehicle keys/key fobs.
Testimony in support came from Darren Reenie of Wet Paint Artist Materials and Framing, who said artist paint and related supplies account for a significant share of sales and that the ban threatens independent art supply businesses and artists’ access to essential pigments. Josh Fiser of the Alliance for Automotive Innovation supported the key and key fob exemption, saying the current law is overly broad, exposure risk is minimal, and Minnesota should align with California and European Union standards. Bill Morgan of the Arts and Creative Materials Institute and Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association also supported the amendment, arguing there was little scientific basis for including pens, mechanical pencils, and professional artist materials, and citing prior reviews in the Consumer Product Safety Commission and the European Union.
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, through Assistant Commissioner Kirk Kadelka, opposed broad exemptions and emphasized that no amount of lead is safe for children. He said the law was based on evidence from consumer products associated with elevated blood lead levels and argued that safer alternatives exist for many of the items in the amendment, including pens, mechanical pencils, and some key components. He also raised concerns about exposure during production and disposal. Committee members questioned the scope of the exemptions and whether the industry had workable alternatives. The A2 amendment was adopted, and the bill was then advanced for further consideration and re-referred as noted by the chair.
MN
Minnesota 2025 1st Special Session
Committee on Energy, Utilities, Environment and Climate - 02/26/25
Energy, Utilities, Environment, and Climate
Transcript Highlights:
- Today's agenda will include two confirmation hearings.
- I am here today seeking your recommendation for my confirmation.
- planning process.
- <00:18:15.840>
the the resource planning process the the resource planning process the commission - <00:26:34.880>
for <00:26:35.240>solar processes for solar processes for solar installations
FL
Transcript Highlights:
- executive appointments of the above-named appointees to the office and for the term indicated be confirmed
- President, I move that the Senate accept the report in its entirety and confirm the appointments of the
- Senators, I rise in opposition to the confirmation of Tina Vidal-Douart.
- It feels gross, and we should reject the Senate confirmation. Thank you, Senators.
- There will be further updates as we go forward about the amendment process and the timing.
Summary:
The Senate convened with prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, and recognition of Doctors of the Day. Members then offered several gallery introductions and Capitol Day recognitions, including St. Johns County Day, Florida Space Day, Florida State Parks Day, AMIkids Day, Manatee County Days, New College of Florida Day, and Florida Keys Day.
The chamber received and adopted a committee report on 65 executive appointments. Debate focused on the confirmation of Tina Vidal-Douart, with one senator opposing her appointment over concerns about contracts tied to detention facilities and political contributions, while another senator spoke in support based on her assistance during COVID testing efforts. The report was adopted by a vote of 37 yeas and 0 nays.
On the special order calendar, the Senate passed Committee Substitute for Committee Substitute for Senate Bill 48 on housing, which requires local governments to allow accessory dwelling units under specified conditions and extends certain density bonus incentives for military families. The Senate also passed Committee Substitute for Senate Bill 578, creating a statewide Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Initiative through the Department of Elder Affairs. Both bills passed 38-0.
Appropriations Chair Hooper gave a budget update, saying the Senate budget rollout would move to February 12 in committee and February 18 in full appropriations. The Senate then waived rules to immediately certify all bills passed that day to the House, and adjourned until Wednesday, February 11, for committee meetings and other business.
HI
Hawaii 2025 Regular Session
PSM-HOU, HOU Public Hearings 04-10-2025
Public Safety and Military Affairs
Transcript Highlights:
- I just want to make sure that's why you were here, to confirm that you're going to do that.
- I just want to make sure that's why you were here, to confirm that you're going to do that.
- I just want to make sure that's why you were here, to confirm that you're going to do that.
- <00:45:28.880>
And <00:45:29.040>I reforming some of the processes. - And I reforming some of the processes.
Summary:
The joint committees heard HCR 66, which asks the State Building Code Council to update the state building code to allow point access block construction for residential buildings up to six stories. Testimony was generally in support, including from Housing Hawaii’s Future, the Grassroot Institute of Hawaii, and OPSD, with one registered opponent. No questions were raised, and the joint committee later adopted a recommendation to pass the resolution as is. Because the housing committee lacked quorum at that time, final action on the resolution was deferred to the housing-only agenda.
On the housing-only agenda, the committee first heard HTR 78, which states the intent that housing projects qualifying for credits under Act 31 remain eligible for those credits after the act’s repeal. Testimony was in support from HHFTC and the DIY chapter, and there were no questions or opposition noted. The committee then took up Governor’s Message 592, confirming Lisa Darcy to the HPHA board. Support came from HPHA board members and several individuals, and Darcy said she accepted the nomination and emphasized her experience and interest in HPHA’s work. Members questioned her about the HPHA board’s oversight role, the 10,000-unit RFQ, and media coverage of Kuhio Park Terrace relocations; she said she supports the project, values transparency, and would push for better context and accountability, though some members felt she had not directly answered concerns about on-the-ground oversight.
The committee also heard Governor’s Message 736, confirming Grant Chun to the HHFDC board. Support testimony highlighted his experience in nonprofit housing, real estate, and leadership roles, and Chun said he was pleased to serve the state. Members asked about his residence and his perspective on senior care at Hali Makua, where he said his family found the care compassionate and thorough, while noting staffing shortages. The transcript ends before any final vote on the housing-only items is shown.
NM
New Mexico 2025 Regular Session
IC - Military and Veterans Affairs Nov 5th, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- Process and into treatment.
- , through the healing process, and through the treatment process.
- From the food pantry, I asked the question for confirmation.
- A member can always re-ask a question or confirm. I don't stop that.
- capital outlay process, the first two sessions take over a year.
FL
Transcript Highlights:
- So we're working this bill through the process.
- Requesting records should be a straightforward process, but Florida law is inconsistent and confusing
- The right to inspect records, whether the law... ...forward process, but Florida law is inconsistent
- It's important that we have a peer review process, and that's across this country, across...
- So we're really excited about the process, and I'd be happy to take any questions.
Summary:
The committee took up a large health policy agenda. SB 1568 on electronic prescribing was explained as a federal conformity measure, but members raised concerns about preserving patients’ ability to obtain paper prescriptions and about exemptions for emergency, hospice, and other situations. Emergency physicians testified in support of e-prescribing but asked for flexibility, and the bill was reported favorably despite Senator Harrell’s opposition. SB 1606 on patient access to records sought to standardize record-production timelines and require electronic delivery when available; after an amendment correcting a drafting error, the bill drew concerns about HIPAA, behavioral health confidentiality, and the distinction between personal and legal representatives, and it was reported unfavorably as a committee substitute.
The committee then approved SB 1346 on fentanyl testing, with a technical amendment, to require hospitals and campus emergency departments to test for fentanyl in urine testing for suspected overdose or poisoning. SB 1224 on administration of controlled substances by paramedics was amended to clarify language and reported favorably. SB 656 on health care billing and collection activities was substantially revised by strike-all amendment to allow sale of medical debt to third parties under new limits, including no interest or fees and return of debt if charity care applies; it was reported favorably as a committee substitute. SB 68 expanded health facilities authority financing to include not-for-profit LLCs and parent companies, and SB 524 added Duchenne muscular dystrophy to the newborn screening panel; both were reported favorably.
Later, the committee approved SB 1842 on out-of-network referrals after multiple amendments, requiring providers to verify network participation at the point of service and notify patients in writing, though several members and physicians warned it could burden providers and increase workload. The committee also advanced proposed committee bill SB 7028, which revises the Casey DeSantis Cancer Research Program, adds oversight and reporting requirements, creates a pediatric cancer research incubator, and establishes the Bascom-Palmer VisionGen initiative; cancer center representatives testified in strong support, and the bill was reported favorably as a committee bill. SB 172 on specialty titles and designations was amended to clarify enforcement and was reported favorably after supporters said it would prevent misleading use of specialist titles, while opponents argued it could confuse practitioners’ titles. Finally, SB 1690 on surrendered infants was reported favorably after supporters said it would codify and expand safe-haven baby box procedures and opponents raised safety concerns about the devices. The committee also noted SB 1606 remained pending for reconsideration next week before adjourning.
HI
Transcript Highlights:
- outreach and engagement, that's a good process.
- that we've outlined in that the process that we've outlined in that that that process<00:03:31.319><
- <00:03:37.799>
so engagement that that's a good process so engagement that that's a good process - actually whether there's an OHA process actually whether there's an OHA process to<00:39:12.119>
- We are adjourned. and land um confirms that this measure and land um confirms that this measure is is
Summary:
The joint hearing focused on Senate Bill 4, which would transfer stewardship of Mauna ʻAla from the Department of Land and Natural Resources to the Office of Hawaiian Affairs. Committee chairs opened the meeting with housekeeping and noted the hearing was live-streamed, with a two-minute limit for testimony. Director Don Chang of the Board of Land and Natural Resources said DLNR had been working with OHA and had agreed to transfer certain lands subject to due diligence, including Kahana Valley and a parcel in Waimānalo, but urged the committee to finalize those mutually agreed parcels before taking on something new. He also described the current arrangement at Mauna ʻAla as a collaborative one involving the state and the royal trusts, with the state handling routine maintenance and the trusts contributing to larger repairs and improvements on a project-by-project basis rather than through direct annual appropriations.
Testimony was mixed. Supporters argued that OHA is better positioned to steward the site because of its cultural mission, Native Hawaiian governance, and ability to protect sacred places with greater cultural competency and accountability. Several speakers emphasized that Mauna ʻAla is not a state park and should be cared for by those with direct cultural ties and experience, and some cited OHA’s recent financial reforms and partnerships as reasons for confidence. Others, including representatives of the Daughters and Sons of the Hawaiian Warriors Makakoa, opposed the bill, citing concerns about OHA’s past financial management, transparency, and the need for more public information and testimony before any transfer. One testifier also argued the land transfer itself was unlawful and rooted in the history of the overthrow and annexation.
Members and testifiers also discussed the historical role of the royal trusts and family caretakers at Mauna ʻAla, with one descendant describing a long family stewardship and supporting OHA only if amended language preserved checks and balances and protected iwi and burial grounds. Another speaker said the family recognized James Mayo as kahu of Mauna ʻAla and supported the bill because prior DLNR efforts had not sufficiently protected traditional and customary rights. The hearing ended after public testimony and committee questions, with no vote or final action taken in the portion provided.
KY
Kentucky 2026 Regular Session
Legislative Ethics Commission (6-9-26)
Transcript Highlights:
- to proceed with that same process. to proceed with that same process.
- <00:09:20.920>
So, of our processing of things. So, of our processing of things. - process process and<00:12:19.560>
that's <00:12:19.720>going <00:12:19.840>to <00 - amendment. >> Missed a confirming amendment.
- Yeah, >> missed a confirming amendment. Yeah, okay. okay. okay.
Summary:
The Kentucky Legislative Ethics Commission met on June 9, 2026, with a quorum present and first elected David Nicholas as chair and Mike Soles as vice chair by acclamation. The commission then approved the prior meeting minutes and received staff reports, including March and April financial reports showing the office remained within budget. Staff also reported that the April filing cycle for employers and lobbyists had been completed and that the next reporting period would open September 1 and be due September 15.
The commission approved a 2% cost-of-living adjustment for staff for fiscal years 2026-2027 and 2027-2028, consistent with the state budget. Staff also updated members on office space: the current lease, in place since 1995, is being extended for six months at the current rate while the office evaluates whether to renew or move to a larger space. Members discussed the need for a better work environment and a small conference room, and staff said they would keep the commission updated as the process develops.
The commission then considered its annual recommended legislative changes to the LRC. Staff explained that the first three items were the same as last year’s recommendations and the fourth corrected a drafting issue where a confirming amendment had been missed. Members discussed the timing and usefulness of the recommendations, including a brief joke about hiring lobbyists, and then approved all four items for recommendation. Finally, the commission voted to enter executive session to discuss confidential complaints and, if necessary, informal opinions.
HI
Hawaii 2026 Regular Session
EDN Public Hearing - Tue Mar 31, 2026 @ 2:00 PM HST
Transcript Highlights:
- We were in a consultant confirm process with the unions.
- We were in a consultant confirm process with the unions.
- We were in a consultant confirm process with the unions.
- We were in a consultant confirm process<00:46:41.480>
with <00:46:41.640>the <00:46:41.760 - /c> concluded that consultant confirm concluded that consultant confirm process<00:46:45.240>
recently
Summary:
The committee heard testimony on several education resolutions, beginning with HCR 11 and HR 14, which ask the Board of Education and the State Public Charter School Commission to report on improving access to stable, suitable, and affordable facilities for public charter schools. The Charter School Commission supported the measure, and OHA also supported it while noting long-standing facility challenges, the lack of a dedicated facilities appropriation, and the strain on charter schools that have had to use operating funds for buildings and temporary structures. Kealakehe Academy, Hawaii Technology Academy, and several individuals also testified in support.
The committee then took up HCR 181 and HR 171, which seek a shared decision-making committee to develop an action plan for a K-12 Ka Waihona School in Kapolei. The Department of Education said it has already developed a strategic plan for Kaipuni education, has expanded immersion programs over the past decade, and is addressing growth through interim guidance and a new priority placement process. Community witnesses, including representatives of Ke Alo Ever, strongly supported the resolutions, emphasizing the need for a K-12 pathway, the importance of Hawaiian language and culture, and the role of community voice in planning. They argued that teacher shortages, especially for licensed Hawaiian immersion teachers, remain a major barrier and proposed a kumu recruitment and retention program tied to community, UH, and DOE partnerships.
The committee also heard HCR 187 and HR 177, which urge the Department of Education to begin initiatives to address teacher retention statewide. DOE and the University of Hawaiʻi College of Education said teacher retention is already being addressed through the Teacher Education Coordinating Committee, a five-year plan focused on building capacity, improving satisfaction, and compensation, and a new DOE human resources plan. In response to questions, DOE said it is seeking better school-level data on why teachers leave, is preparing for contract negotiations, and is working with the standards board and DLIR on an apprenticeship-related grant. TECC representatives said the group has been working since the pandemic era, may narrow its focus to retention as the most actionable area, and expects to provide more concrete recommendations in its annual report. The transcript ends as the committee moves on to the next item, HCR 47 and HR 43, without showing any votes or final actions on the measures heard.
US
US Federal 2025-2026 Regular Session
Business meeting to consider the nomination of Douglas Collins, of Georgia, to be Secretary of Veterans Affairs. Jan 23rd, 2025
Senate Veterans' Affairs
Transcript Highlights:
- If he's confirmed, as I expect he will be, I welcome the opportunity to work and advocate with him in
- If it's to be overturned, it has to be by the same rulemaking process that was pursued to make the rule
- out what that exactly means, but I'd also say that it would be useful to have Secretary Collins confirmed
- This committee needs to do its work, but the bottom line is, I think that having the Secretary confirmed
- As with his predecessors, if Congressman Collins is confirmed, I will, of course, work with him as a
VT
Vermont 2025-2026 Regular Session
Senate Session - 2026-01-30 - 11:30AM
Vermont Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- Do we are going to do the confirmation? So, we don't need to go into orders for today. Okay.
- We have a confirmation. >> Senator from Chittenden. >> Thank you, Mr. President.
- Your Committee on Judiciary voted 5-0 in support of this confirmation, and we ask the Senate to concur
- and we ask support of this confirmation and we ask the<00:17:11.600>
Senate <00:17:11.919> - The ayes have it, and you have confirmed the appointment of Colin Oang as Superior Court judge.
MN
Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session
Informational interview with Rep. Keith Allen (R-Kenyon) Nov 20th, 2025
Minnesota House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- We built a really good friendship over the process.
- And uh now that I've gotten the process.
- And I helping them learn in the process.
- students were protected in the process. students were protected in the process.
- The to confirm soybeans being purchased.
Summary:
The interview focused on the representative’s first session in a tied House, which he described as record-setting and a lesson in working across the aisle. He said bipartisan support became essential, and he highlighted working with Representative Liz Rehm on a couple of bills and spending the off-season building more bipartisan legislation aimed at issues affecting rural and greater Minnesota.
He also discussed a meeting with MSU Mankato’s president about civil discourse and freedom of expression on campus. His concern was protecting students who might push back against divisive comments from professors and ensuring they would not face repercussions or grade-related consequences for speaking up.
A major portion of the conversation covered agriculture and trade, especially tariffs and their effects on farmers. He said farmers are again facing difficult conditions, though not as severe as the 1980s farm crisis, and noted that recent U.S.-China soybean purchasing agreements helped raise soybean and corn prices. He also said greater Minnesota is facing serious nursing home closures and shortages, which are forcing seniors farther from their communities.
Looking ahead to 2026, he said he is working on several bills: a stop-arm bill to clarify penalties related to school bus violations, a robocall bill requiring callers to identify themselves with a number, and a mass casualty firewall act aimed at allowing charges when someone has assembled materials and plans for a mass casualty event. He said the mass casualty proposal is the one he is most proud of and that discussions with both DFL and Republican leaders have been positive.