Transcript Highlights:

• I move the Senate of Maryland stand adjourned until Monday, January 26th, supposedly at 8:00 PM, but
• Maryland stand adjourned until Senate of Maryland stand adjourned until Monday,<00:04:54.080> January
• 26th,<00:04:56.000> supposedly<00:04:56.639> at<00:04:56.960> 8:00 Monday, January
• 26th, supposedly at 8:00 Monday, January 26th, supposedly at 8:00 PM,<00:04:58.080> but<00:04

Keywords: Senate streaming session for Friday, January 23, 2026, 960, senate, all

Summary: The Maryland Senate held a brief pro forma session with a quorum call and routine procedural business. The chamber received a letter from the General Assembly Compensation Commission transmitting its 14th quadrennial report on legislative compensation and allowances, which was journalized. Senators also introduced Senate Bill 328, concerning property tax credits for disabled or fallen public safety officers, and several bond initiative items, including projects such as the Carroll County Youth Services Bureau, Cromwell Valley Elementary Playground, and Holland Hills Park; these were referred to the appropriate committees or the capital budget subcommittee. No substantive debate or votes occurred. Members shared announcements about delegation meetings, including the Eastern Shore delegation’s presentations from Congressman Andy Harris, MACo, and the Maryland Municipal League, and a mention of Western Maryland organizing activity. Leadership also noted that weather could affect the next meeting and advised members to check the website and watch for email updates. The Senate then adjourned, on motion of the majority leader, until Monday, January 26th, with the exact meeting time to be confirmed on the website.

Transcript Highlights:

• not<00:12:36.959> have<00:12:37.600> the<00:12:37.920> ability<00:12:38.399>
• <00:12:43.279> So,<00:12:43.519> I<00:12:43.680> just<00:12:43.839> I
• 12:45.519> it<00:12:45.760> took<00:12:46.000> us<00:12:46.320> three just
• c><00:12:47.680> dig<00:12:48.000> out<00:12:48.399> to<00:12:48.560> get
• the<00:12:56.800> news<00:12:57.120> media<00:12:57.440> is<00:12:57.760>

Keywords: House streaming session for Friday, January 23, 2026, 957, house, all

Summary: The House convened with 118 members present, opened with prayer, and proceeded through the day’s desk work. The clerk read introductory House bills 445 through 488, which were first read and referred to the appropriate committees, along with introductory House joint resolutions and several bond initiatives referred to Appropriations. A letter reassigning House Bill 149 to Economic Matters was also journalized. Committee announcements noted that several standing committees would not meet that day, while the House Rules and Executive Nominations Committee would meet virtually on Monday at 1:00 p.m. because of the snowstorm; the fiscal briefing was moved to 4:00 p.m. on Zoom. A substantial portion of the meeting focused on questions about the Rules Committee hearing process for House Bill 488, the congressional redistricting bill. Members asked about witness sign-up timing, whether the weekend extension was allowed, and whether there were conflicts of interest in the process. The parliamentarian and Speaker responded that the chair has discretion, that testimony sign-up had been extended through Friday, Saturday, and Sunday due to weather, and that if there were no electricity on Monday the hearing would be rescheduled. The Speaker also said the fiscal note for HB 488 would be available before the hearing. The rest of the session consisted largely of caucus, delegation, and guest announcements. Members announced upcoming meetings for the Waterman’s Caucus, Legislative Jewish Caucus, Women’s Caucus, LGBTQ+ Caucus, and a fire/EMS coalition, and noted the cancellation of an in-person Holocaust Remembrance event in favor of a virtual format. Guests and interns were recognized in the gallery, including representatives from the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, 100 Black Men of Charles County, Howard University students, and several student interns. The House also recognized the pages for their service and celebrated Delegate Marlon Amprey’s upcoming birthday. The chamber then adjourned until Monday, January 26 at 8:00 p.m., with the public again invited to submit testimony over the weekend.

Transcript Highlights:

• Not to be outdone<00:12:46.639> by<00:12:46.800> the<00:12:47.040> bankers<00:12
• the engineers,<00:12:48.480> today<00:12:48.720> is<00:12:49.040> CPA<00:12:49.519
• <00:12:52.800> So,<00:12:53.279> um<00:12:53.920> I<00:12:54.160> know
• :12:55.360> way<00:12:55.519> to<00:12:55.680> many<00:12:55.920> of they've
• <00:12:56.800> but<00:12:57.040> just<00:12:57.440> show<00:12:57.680> some

Keywords: House streaming session for Thursday, January 22, 2026, 957, house, all

Summary: The House met in session with 127 members initially present, opened with prayer and the journal reading, and then took up introductory business. House Bills 394 through 444 were read the first time and referred to the appropriate committees, and Introductory House Bond Initiatives Number Two was referred to Appropriations. The Speaker also announced and the House adopted appointments to the Joint Committee on Legislative Ethics and the Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee. Most of the meeting consisted of committee and delegation announcements. Appropriations, Environment and Transportation, Health, Judiciary, and Ways and Means all announced briefings later that day, while several other committees said they would not meet. Delegations from Frederick, Anne Arundel, the Eastern Shore, Prince George’s, Montgomery, Charles, Baltimore City, Baltimore County, and Southern Maryland announced upcoming meetings, many by Zoom. A Montgomery County delegate also announced a Public Safety and Administration Subcommittee briefing on the Department of Social and Economic Mobility. The floor included multiple guest and caucus recognitions. The Women’s Caucus promoted a service drive for hygiene, baby, and women’s products for the YMCA Druid Hill pantry, and the Legislative Black Caucus announced new leadership, with Chair N. Scott Phillips and Senate Vice Chair Shaneka Henson. The House welcomed visitors for Maryland Bankers Association Day, Transportation Association of Maryland advocacy day, the Maryland chapter of the American Council of Engineering Companies, CPA Day, and sportsmen and sportswomen day, along with student visitors and a guest of a Prince George’s County delegate. No substantive debate or recorded votes occurred beyond the adoption of committee appointments, and the House adjourned until Friday, January 23 at 11:00 a.m.

Keywords: Finance - Room 216, 22 January, 2026; 1:30 PM, 925, all

Transcript Highlights:

• :00.000> and<01:12:00.159> start<01:12:00.480> so<01:12:00.719> the<01:12
• <01:12:06.800> say<01:12:06.960> is<01:12:07.280> we<01:12:07.520> did
• 12:17.760> maybe<01:12:18.080> reschedu<01:12:18.800> those<01:12:19.199> two
• <01:12:23.360> I<01:12:23.520> I<01:12:23.760> can<01:12:23.840> put<
• > we<01:12:27.760> will<01:12:27.920> have<01:12:28.000> to<01:12:28.080>

Keywords: Appropriations - Room 409, 22 January, 2026; 1:30 P.M., 925, all

Summary: The committee first heard from the Mississippi Auctioneer Commission, which requested level funding. PJ Lindsay reported the agency granted 29 new auctioneer applications and 9 new firm applications, received 3 complaints, resolved 1, signed 1 consent order, and issued 1 suspension. Members questioned the commission about its cash balance, reserve levels, and a large variance between prior spending and the FY26 request; staff explained the difference was tied to technology and contractual costs, including planned computer system updates and out-of-state conference travel for board members. The commission also noted that auctioneering oversight is important because an estimated $4.5 billion will flow through Mississippi escrow accounts in 2025. The Board of Optometry then presented its budget and organizational changes. Board leaders said the board had transitioned away from a state employee model to a management company arrangement with JBAR/Cornerstone, which they said saved about $43,000 and improved service and efficiency. They described the creation of a licensing database and a new back-end system, and said the board was generally seeking level funding with a small increase for computer equipment tied to the new system. Committee members asked about the impact on PERS contributions, the former employee’s retirement, the board’s cash balance, lease arrangements, and whether licensees had complained; the board said the change required legislative approval, the former employee retired, the cash balance was about $399,900, and service complaints had decreased. The Mississippi Board of Licensure for Engineers and Surveyors reported a busy FY2025, including moving most licensure applications online, accepting supporting documents by email, expanding K-12 and college outreach, hosting student interns, visiting ABET-accredited schools, decoupling the surveyor exam registration process, and awarding about $400,000 in grants to engineering programs. The board said it licenses about 15,000 engineers and surveyors plus 8,500 interns, with most registrants from out of state, and that its fees are among the lowest nationally. For the budget, the board requested level funding overall but also sought a new investigator position, 5% salary progressions, increased travel funding for national meetings and STEM outreach, more contractual money for internships and IT modifications, additional supplies, and restoration of a $600,000 grant program that is funded every other year to support university and community college engineering and surveying programs. The board said its operations are supported by fees and that its cash balance is about $1.6 million.

Transcript Highlights:

• That's<00:12:34.560> not<00:12:34.720> a<00:12:34.800> it's<00:12:35.040> not
• <00:12:36.639> right<00:12:36.800> people<00:12:36.959> on<00:12:37.200>
• But<00:12:39.760> basically<00:12:40.320> we<00:12:40.560> would<00:12:41.040>
• :12:42.560> very<00:12:42.959> similar<00:12:43.279> to<00:12:44.079> what
• Um, see<00:12:47.519> if<00:12:47.680> we<00:12:47.760> can<00:12:47.839> cut

Keywords: Appropriations - Room 210; 22 January, 2026: 1:30 PM, 925, all

Summary: The meeting began with a budget presentation from the insurance commissioner’s office. The commissioner said most of the request was for personnel costs, including an increase above LBO and two additional IT positions tied to a possible conversion to a state-based system and cybersecurity needs. The office also discussed travel costs, contractual expenses, vehicle replacement, and hurricane mitigation funds, noting that some funds are in trust accounts and require legislative authority to spend. The commissioner also briefed members on possible policy changes affecting the ACA exchange and a proposed low-cost plan for the high-risk pool, warning that if coverage options are not developed, more people could shift into uncompensated care. Members asked about the budget request, the IT positions, and a constituent question about propane meter regulation, which the commissioner said falls under the Department of Agriculture and Commerce, though his office sometimes checks related issues informally. The committee then moved to the State Fire Academy hearing. The academy director described a workforce stabilization proposal focused on retaining and recruiting fire instructors, citing competition from local fire departments that pay more, a shrinking applicant pool, and a growing number of retirement-eligible staff. He said the academy’s instructors are being recruited away by municipalities, that recent applicant pools have produced very few qualified candidates, and that the academy may soon have to cut advanced courses if staffing does not improve. He referenced a State Personnel Board review that supported the need for compensation changes and said the academy is trying to remain competitive while continuing to train firefighters, hazmat responders, EMS personnel, and fire officers statewide. No formal votes or legislative actions were taken in the portion provided. Members mainly asked questions, requested written follow-up on some budget items, and indicated they would work with the agencies later in the session if pending bills or funding needs changed.

Transcript Highlights:

• > a<00:12:01.360> senior<00:12:01.519> at<00:12:01.680> University<00:12:
• <00:12:05.040> president<00:12:05.279> on<00:12:05.440> the<00:12:05.519>
• c> almost<00:12:13.360> as<00:12:13.600> a<00:12:13.760> a<00:12:14.000>
• So,<00:12:16.079> I<00:12:16.240> also<00:12:16.480> wanted<00:12:16.639> to<
• <00:12:37.120> Great<00:12:37.360> to<00:12:37.519> see<00:12:37.680> you

Keywords: Senate streaming session for Thursday, January 22, 2026, 960, senate, all

Summary: The Maryland Senate convened with an invocation by Reverend Abi Johni of Cedar Lane Unitarian Universalist Church, followed by the roll call establishing a quorum with 44 members present. The chamber then featured numerous introductions and recognitions, including legislative interns, a shadowing student, a constituent assisting this session, visiting advocacy groups such as the Maryland Bankers Association, the Transportation Association of Maryland, and the Maryland Association of CPAs, as well as several pages and other guests. Members also announced upcoming caucus and delegation events, committee briefings, and weather-related schedule contingencies. On the legislative side, the Senate received bill introductions, including Senate Bill 314 on immunity from liability for donations of pet supplies in judicial proceedings, and a bond initiative for a neighborhood community track and field project, which was referred to the capital budget subcommittee. The main floor action was consideration of Rule 116; after brief discussion, the Senate adopted the rule by a unanimous 44-0 vote, completing adoption of the Senate rules. Committee announcements noted upcoming hearings and briefings: Finance planned briefings on health insurance subsidies and private passenger auto insurance; Education, Energy, and the Environment scheduled briefings on climate-smart agriculture and federal policy impacts; Budget and Taxation planned an interagency commission briefing; and Judicial Proceedings announced 12 bill hearings, including two lengthy bills. The Senate also journalized the invocation, recognized the new leadership of the Maryland Legislative Black Caucus, and adjourned until the next pro forma session, with the adjournment also honoring Edward Risinger, a former Baltimore City Council member who had recently died.

Keywords: MS House Floor - 22 January, 2026; 2:00 PM, 925, all

Summary: The House convened with prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, established a quorum, dispensed with the journal reading, and reported no select committee reports. Members then recognized visitors and guests, including representatives from Mississippi College and Coastal American Insurance. The chamber spent considerable time honoring Mississippi College’s 200th anniversary, with remarks from members about the school’s history, its law school, and personal experiences there, followed by the presentation of a proclamation and applause. On the rules calendar, the House adopted several resolutions in blocks, including three House concurrent resolutions and then five House resolutions, all by unanimous or near-unanimous voice vote. One motion to reconsider House Bill 534 was tabled. The House also granted immediate release on the adopted resolutions. Later, a member introduced an out-of-order birthday recognition and a family baseball photo, which drew laughter and applause. On the general calendar, the House took up House Bill 4, a County Affairs bill concerning municipal annexation. The bill would require an election in both the municipality and the proposed annexation area if 20% of electors in the area petition for one, with annexation failing unless both sides agree; if defeated, the question could be brought back after five years. Members questioned whether the measure would make annexation much harder, whether business owners would vote, and how it compared with current court-based annexation procedures. The bill was laid on the table subject to call after discussion. Military Affairs, Transportation, and Medicaid were then reported as passing. The clerk announced upcoming committee meetings and a suffrage bill deadline, members made additional announcements including recognition of the doctor of the day and Recovery Day 2026, and the House adjourned to reconvene Monday at 4 p.m., weather permitting, with a possible delay to Tuesday or Wednesday if roads were impassable.

Transcript Highlights:

• It began January 1st.
• It began January<00:16:45.279> 1st.
• through the first two weeks of January through the first two weeks of January and<00:16:53.680><
• The request was made on January 12th.
• January 12th. All pawn industry licences January 12th.

Keywords: Appropriations - Room 216, 22 January, 2026; 8:00 AM, 925, all

Summary: The hearing began with the State Board of Architecture’s budget presentation. The executive director described the board’s mission to regulate architecture, landscape architecture, and certified interior design to protect public health and safety. He highlighted the board’s consolidated structure, license totals, high reciprocity rate, recent rule changes to reduce barriers to practice, and a proposed FY 2027 budget of $368,123, which included a 5% staff salary increase and higher operating costs. He also noted a newly identified need to modernize the licensing system, estimated at at least $25,000, and asked that the board not be reduced below the requested level. A board member also praised the small staff’s responsiveness and effectiveness. The State Board of Public Accountancy then presented its budget and policy requests. The executive director said the board regulates CPAs and CPA firms, oversees the CPA exam process, and has about 3,600 active individual licensees and 800 firms. The board requested only a 3% compensation increase for staff, plus a special request to allow an audit supervisor to repay the cost of a Becker review course through payroll deduction as part of succession planning. She also described a board-approved waiver program that began January 1, eliminating application fees for CPA exam candidates and retakes; 42 candidates had used the waiver in the first two weeks. In response to questions, she said the board does not assist CPAs with IRS disputes, but it does investigate complaints from the IRS, SEC, PCAOB, or others. Finally, a representative presented for the Board of Licensed Professional Counselors. She explained that the board regulates licensed counselors and psychotherapy providers, meets frequently, and has two staff members. The board’s main request was for additional investigative capacity: a full-time investigator and related funding, because complaints are currently handled by part-time investigators, contractors, and sometimes board members, which can require recusals from hearings. She said the state auditor had recently flagged complaint backlogs at regulatory agencies, supporting the request. The board also sought funding for a contractual administrative position, salary progressions, and a one-time technology increase to modify its new licensing system for the counseling compact and better search functions. Members questioned the board about its large cash balance, which was reported at about $860,000, and whether it should provide fee relief or other benefits to members; the presenter said the board would look into that and noted that revenues had increased significantly in recent years, partly due to out-of-state and telehealth-related licensing demand.

Transcript Highlights:

• So today, I<00:12:08.399> also<00:12:08.639> ask<00:12:08.880> that<00:12:09.120
• > we<00:12:09.279> keep<00:12:09.519> them<00:12:09.680> in<00:12:09.839>
• Uh<00:12:12.240> but<00:12:12.480> congratulations<00:12:13.120> on<00:12:13.360
• Uh<00:12:14.639> keep<00:12:14.880> going<00:12:15.040> at<00:12:15.200> it,<
• :12:53.680> think<00:12:53.760> we<00:12:53.920> had<00:12:54.079> a<00:12

Keywords: MS Senate Floor - 22 January, 2026; 10:00 AM, 925, all

Summary: The Senate convened with a quorum, received an invocation from Dr. Danny Irvin, and led the pledge of allegiance. Routine business followed, including unanimous consent to dispense with the reading of the journal, committee reports, and bill titles. The chamber also recognized several guests, including family members of senators, Dr. Diana Osbrook of the University of Mississippi, recovery day guests, Mississippi State women’s basketball coach Sam Purcell and staff, leaders from the Mississippi Trucking Association’s Lead MTA program, and students from Presbyterian Day School. A major item was Senate Resolution 10, commemorating the bicentennial of Mississippi College in Clinton. Mississippi College President Dr. Blake Thompson addressed the Senate, describing the school’s 200-year history, its church affiliations, and its planned name change to Mississippi Christian University. He also highlighted the school’s partnership with the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians and introduced the Choctaw Eagle mascot, Tuska. Senators praised the institution’s contributions to the state and its alumni in public office. On the calendar, several measures were taken up and passed over or retained, including Senate Bill 2017 on repealing obsolete commissions, Senate Bill 2259, a government efficiency/structure measure, child care facility licensing legislation, and a Mississippi Board of Pharmacy bill. Senator England was added as a co-author to Senate Bill 2017. The Senate also noted campaign finance report deadlines and remembered Senator Butler’s brother, Percy L. Butler, in memory. The meeting ended with extensive announcements about committee and subcommittee meetings, but the dominant procedural action was a weather-related recess resolution. After warnings of possible severe travel conditions on Monday and Tuesday, the Senate adopted a motion to recess until 5:00 p.m. that day, with the journal to reflect adjournment until 4:00 p.m. Monday unless weather conditions require reconvening Tuesday or Wednesday instead.

Transcript Highlights:

• Grades 9, 10, 11, or 12 shall be in addition to that.
• They're all outlined in section 12, and they're like eight or nine of them. Okay.
• :55.440> our<02:12:55.599> state.
• <02:12:55.920> We're<02:12:56.079> at<02:12:57.119> 140<02:12:57.440> plus
• We're at 140 plus, including<02:12:58.400> charter<02:12:58.800> schools.

Keywords: Education - Room 216, 22 January, 2026; 10:30 AM, 925, all

Summary: The committee took up several education-related bills. Senate Bill 2071 would allow school boards to vote on providing health insurance to board members and their dependents using local, not state, funds; it was advanced after Senator Brian objected that it could create an incentive for people to seek school board seats for the insurance benefit. Senate Bill 2072 would move the deadline for teacher supply cards earlier, from August to July, using EF funds, and it was reported. Senate Bill 2103 would require school boards to adopt policies banning or restricting student cell phone use during school and class time, and it was also reported. Senate Bill 21103 would remove a requirement that school counselors follow the National Association of School Counselors’ code of ethics and instead align them with the Mississippi teacher code of ethics; it passed without opposition. Senate Bill 2236 would authorize the use of LifeVac choking devices in schools, with the sponsor saying the devices are inexpensive and could be provided free to districts; it passed as well. The committee then spent most of its time on Senate Bill 2242, the Mississippi Math Act, which would create a statewide math improvement initiative within the Department of Education. The bill would deploy math instructional coaches, require K-5 universal math screeners three times a year, create individual math plans for students below benchmark, support algebra readiness, protect data under FERPA, and establish a fund for grants and other deposits. Senator Boyd said the bill is modeled on efforts in other states, especially Alabama, and is intended to build on Mississippi’s literacy reforms by focusing on support, intervention, and professional development rather than retention or punishment. Members raised concerns about cost, the proposed anti-lapsing language for the fund, and whether the bill should require high-quality instructional materials statewide rather than leaving curriculum choices to local districts. Senator Hopson estimated the program could cost about $3.5 million and suggested the anti-lapsing language might be removed or handled through appropriations. Senators Blunt, Hill, and Wiggins argued that the success of literacy reforms came from requiring standardized, high-quality instructional materials and accountability, not home rule alone. Senator Wiggins offered an amendment to require high-quality instructional materials for math statewide, and Senator Boyd said he was supportive of that as a friendly amendment. The discussion ended with the amendment still being worked through and the bill not yet finally disposed of in the excerpt.

Keywords: House streaming session for Wednesday, January 21, 2026, 957, house, all

Keywords: Appropriations - Room 216, 21 January, 2026; 8:15 AM, 925, all

Keywords: MS House Floor - 21 January, 2026; 2:00 PM, 925, all

Transcript Highlights:

• And I move the Senate of Maryland stand adjourned until Thursday, January 22nd at 10:00 a.m. >> Without
• Maryland stand adjourned until Senate of Maryland stand adjourned until Thursday,<00:02:33.599> January
• Thursday, January 22nd at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, January 22nd at 10:00 a.m.

Keywords: Senate streaming session for Wednesday, January 21, 2026, 960, senate, all

Summary: The Maryland Senate met in a brief pro forma session focused on administrative business and the formal start of budget season. The chamber waived the reading of the prior journal and substituted the previous day’s invocation. Leaders noted that the budget would be introduced and that committees would handle the detailed work later in the day. Several measures were read and referred to committees: Senate Bill 282, the President’s fiscal year 2027 budget bill, was sent to the Budget and Taxation Committee; Senate Joint Resolution 1, concerning salary recommendations for the governor and lieutenant governor from the President Governor Salary Commission, was also referred to Budget and Taxation; and Senate Joint Resolution 2, concerning judicial compensation recommendations from the President Judicial Compensation Commission, was likewise referred to Budget and Taxation. A Senate bond initiative from Senator Hedleman for a Pikesville High School comfort station was read and sent to the capital budget subcommittee. After the introductions, the presiding officer announced that the Senate had completed its constitutional duties for the day and that committee work would proceed. A quorum call confirmed three members present, and the Senate remained in session long enough for the majority leader to move adjournment. The chamber adjourned without objection until Thursday, January 22nd at 10:00 a.m.

Transcript Highlights:

• And<01:12:05.199> if<01:12:05.440> not,<01:12:05.679> would<01:12:05.920> the
• > it<01:12:09.520> work<01:12:09.760> its<01:12:10.000> way<01:12:10.159>
• There's<01:12:19.199> nothing<01:12:19.440> additional<01:12:19.920> that<01:12:
• >> So<01:12:25.760> and<01:12:25.920> and<01:12:26.159> you<01:12:26.320><
• <01:12:29.440> Chairman,<01:12:29.760> would<01:12:30.000> as<01:12:30.239><

Keywords: MS House Floor - 21 January, 2026; 2:00 PM, 925, all

Summary: The House opened with prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, a quorum call, and several guest introductions, including a pastor, a doctor of the day, medical students and physicians for MSMA White Coat Day, and visitors in the galleries. The chamber then moved to the calendar and took up House Bill 314, the Ibogaine Treatment Drug Development Grant Program Act. The sponsor described ibogaine as a potential treatment for opioid use disorder, PTSD, traumatic brain injury, depression, and related conditions, emphasizing that the bill would not legalize the drug but would authorize the State Department of Health to fund a consortium for FDA-regulated clinical trials with private matching funds, a university and hospital partner, and a requirement that at least 20% of commercialization revenue go to the state. Members asked about VA involvement, whether the trials would serve veterans or civilians, how the drug would be administered and monitored, why a statute was needed, and the source of the proposed state funding. The bill passed by a vote of 110 yeas and 1 nay. The House then considered House Bill 534, as a committee substitute, creating the Mississippi Health Exchange, a statewide health information exchange for real-time sharing of admission, discharge, transfer, and related patient information among hospitals, clinics, payers, and public health officials. The sponsor said the system would improve continuity of care, help with bed availability and mental health placements, and support public health analysis while protecting privacy through HIPAA compliance, an opt-out process, and limits on access to identified data. The bill would require hospitals, community mental health centers, and state hospitals to participate as a condition of licensure, designate a single nonprofit operator selected by the Department of Health, and create a fund for implementation and cybersecurity costs. Members questioned the bill about privacy protections, the opt-out process, whether data could be sold or shared improperly, costs to hospitals, whether hospitals and the hospital association supported the measure, and how the exchange would work in transfer scenarios. The sponsor said the bill would make unauthorized sharing illegal, that most hospitals already participate in some form of HIE, and that the exchange would not cost the state anything immediately because there was no appropriation attached. The discussion also noted possible help from rural transformation funding. The transcript ends during continued questioning of House Bill 534, before final passage or other action is shown.

Transcript Highlights:

• May<00:12:06.240> they<00:12:06.480> be<00:12:06.639> guided<00:12:07.040> by
• 00:12:26.800> you<00:12:27.040> will<00:12:27.279> soften<00:12:27.839> every
• ><00:12:42.079> for<00:12:42.320> the<00:12:42.560> common<00:12:42.959> good
• And<00:12:56.800> yay,<00:12:57.120> Lord,<00:12:57.440> we<00:12:57.760> ask
• <00:12:58.240> that<00:12:58.480> they<00:12:58.720> will<00:12:58.959> be

Keywords: MS Senate Floor - 21 January, 2026; 10:00 AM, 925, all

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.

Transcript Highlights:

• <00:12:00.480> Um<00:12:00.800> I<00:12:00.959> like<00:12:01.040> the
• You did a good<00:12:02.079> job<00:12:02.240> with<00:12:02.800> handout<00:12:
• and I<00:12:11.040> know<00:12:11.120> they<00:12:11.600> noticed<00:12:11.839>
• <00:12:31.519> of<00:12:31.680> them,<00:12:32.399> you<00:12:32.560> know,
• <00:12:38.240> and<00:12:38.480> some<00:12:39.040> just<00:12:39.279> give

Keywords: Appropriations - Room 210; 21 January, 2026: 1:30 PM, 925, all

Summary: The subcommittee heard the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks present its FY27 budget request and discuss accomplishments from prior appropriations. The commissioner highlighted improved conservation officer retention after salary increases, continued training and wellness efforts, upgrades to state parks and cabins, expansion of tiny homes, fisheries stocking and youth fishing programs, ongoing chronic wasting disease testing, and the Museum of Natural Science’s recent accreditation. The agency said it wants to maintain parks and facilities so they do not deteriorate again, and it emphasized tourism and public access benefits. Budget staff then outlined the request: $21.7 million in general funds, including increases for state parks, the museum, law enforcement, and chronic wasting disease; $23.2 million in state support capital and education funds; and $86.99 million in special funds authority. Major capital requests included $18.8 million for state parks projects at several parks, $1.25 million for law enforcement facilities, $2 million for Lake Lamar Bruce improvements, and $1.125 million for mobile teaching vans. Members asked for more detail on general fund increases, proof that law enforcement salary enhancements reached field agents, more information on the tiny home program and its return on investment, the source of motor vehicle funds, and a breakdown of requested pins and vacancies. The committee also questioned the agency about chronic wasting disease, with the department saying the $400,000 request supports testing and research and that live testing is not yet reliable. Members raised concerns about prioritization of lake and park maintenance, especially Lake Claude Bennett, and whether the agency is too reactive rather than proactive in addressing deteriorating facilities. The department said funding limitations and federal restrictions on certain lake dollars drive its priorities, and that it focuses on the most-used parks and lakes. No votes or formal actions were taken in the meeting.

Transcript Highlights:

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Keywords: Appropriations - Room 216, 20 January, 2026; 2:30 PM, 925, all

Summary: Mississippi State University officials testified in support of the university’s separately funded agricultural, forestry, and veterinary units, emphasizing their economic impact, research output, and need for continued state support. Keith Cobalt, vice president for the Division of Agriculture, Forestry and Veterinary Medicine, said the division generates a $1.7 billion impact on Mississippi, but warned that state and local funding has not kept pace with federal dollars or inflation. He argued that global competition, especially from China and Brazil, is hurting row crop and forestry producers, and highlighted a Vision 2030 study finding about $10 billion in agricultural and forestry value leaves the state through value-added processing. He also raised concerns about rural depopulation and proposed rural innovation hubs to help retain population and jobs. Nick Frank, dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine, said state appropriations make up about 25% of the college’s operating budget and are needed to support salaries, staffing, and service capacity. He described the college’s education, diagnostic, and clinical missions, including disease surveillance and responses to threats such as avian influenza, screwworm, and equine herpes virus. Frank said the college is expanding facilities with $18 million in 2024 state funding for a new farm animal hospital and cattle handling facility, but still needs additional support for equine and small animal renovations. He also requested support for rural veterinary scholarships and said inflation and salary competition from other schools and private practice are making retention difficult. In response to committee questions, Frank said the college enrolls about 118 to 119 students per class, with roughly 54 to 55 in-state students and tuition of about $29,900 for in-state and $53,000 for out-of-state students. He clarified that the “vet assistants” program is a four-year bachelor’s degree in veterinary medical technology, not a certificate. He also explained that staffing growth has largely been in the hospitals to address clinical shortages and improve care. Dr. Westberger, dean of the College of Forest Resources and director of the Forest and Wildlife Research Center, said Mississippi’s forests support a $19 billion economic impact, 84,000 jobs, and a $4.5 billion payroll, while also providing environmental benefits. He said the college and research center are nationally recognized, including an NSF ranking placing Mississippi State 10th in natural resource conservation research expenditures for a small university. Westberger highlighted research on forest management, pest detection, mass timber, wildlife disease surveillance, and value-added bioproducts, including efforts to attract mills and manufacturing. He said Mississippi has added 10 mills or mill expansions in five years with more than $1.5 billion in investment and over 1,000 high-paying jobs, and noted the college is planning a new mass-timber annex to address capacity and showcase the material. No votes or formal committee actions were taken in the portion provided.

Transcript Highlights:

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Keywords: Appropriations - Room 210; 20 January, 2026: 8:45 AM, 925, all

Summary: The committee heard an update from the Mississippi State Port Authority at the Port of Gulfport on operations, finances, and recent developments. The port emphasized that it is an enterprise agency that does not seek state general fund support, and reported a regional economic impact of $3.8 billion, about $62 million in state and local taxes, and thousands of direct and indirect jobs. The witness highlighted growth in refrigerated cargo, especially efforts to bring more Mississippi poultry through Gulfport, along with continued container traffic and intermodal work. Several major investments and new business lines were discussed. Ports America is required under its lease to invest $43 million, and the port recently received a fourth crane, a $20 million investment that allows two vessels to be worked simultaneously. The port also announced American Cruise Lines stops in Gulfport, which is expected to bring high-end cruise passengers spending time and money locally. Additional updates included growth in technology and blue economy activity at the Roger F. Wicker Center, NOAA’s autonomous vessel operations center, Oceanero’s workforce expansion, and military moves that generated about 70,000 man-hours of local labor. Committee members asked about the FY27 budget, travel, and capital outlay requests. The port said the travel increase was for flexibility and that it spends conservatively, and explained that the larger capital figures reflect a strategic plan and potential private-sector and grant-funded projects rather than expected annual spending. The FY27 request was described as a slight decrease from the prior year, with the main salary increase tied to PERS and health insurance costs, and no special appropriations language was requested. Members also discussed the effort to regain chicken exports through Gulfport, including plans for a future freezer warehouse and the impact of the Kansas City Southern railroad merger, which the port said has had some hiccups but may help in the long run.