Transcript Highlights:

• Who both have been stalwart supporters of this chamber, the Senate of Maryland, and we want to thank
• With 41 members in the chamber and a quorum being present, the Senate of Maryland is now back again in
• Senator Jennings Horse >> Senate Bill 453.
• With 39 members in the chamber and ... Senate welcome. Welcome. [applause] Senate welcome. Welcome.
• <00:27:03.760> and With 39 members in the chamber and quorum being present, the Senate of

Keywords: Senate streaming session for Friday, February 27, 2026, 960, senate, all

Summary: The Maryland Senate met on Friday, February 27, with an invocation by Reverend Howard Travers and several guest introductions, including family members, defense organization leaders, a South Asian Herald editor, Eagleton Institute fellows, and physicians from Johns Hopkins. The chamber journalized the prayer, confirmed a quorum, and then moved into bill introductions, House messages, and committee reports. Several measures were advanced without objection, including Senate Bill 338 to extend a work group report deadline on transfer of retirement system member services, Senate Bill 448 authorizing Carroll County public facilities bonds up to $27 million, Senate Bill 453 clarifying that the Arabian horse race associated with Preakness can be run at Laurel Park, Senate Bill 614 allowing Dorchester County detention officers to join the correctional officers retirement system if the county opts in, and Senate Bill 724 making a technical emergency adjustment to cost-of-living calculations for retirees because October CPI data was unavailable during a government shutdown. Each of those bills received favorable committee reports and was ordered printed for third reading after no objections or amendments were offered. Two bills were postponed for later consideration: Senate Bill 538 on Baltimore City raffles tied to organizations affiliated with professional baseball and football teams was special ordered to Wednesday of the following week, and Senate Bill 108 on water resources and wetlands enforcement was special ordered to March 3 while members worked on possible amendments. Senate Bill 56 on the Maryland Longitudinal Data System Center and third-party data sharing was also special ordered to the following Wednesday because committee discussion was ongoing. House Bill 6 and House Bill 372 were received and referred to the appropriate standing committees. The Senate also took up Executive Nominations Committee Report No. 3 and, after no nominations were separated out, confirmed the executive nominations by a vote of 41 in the affirmative. Later, the chamber heard a personal privilege statement from a Montgomery County senator about Julius Rosenwald and Rosenwald schools in Maryland, highlighting preservation efforts and an upcoming Scrabble tournament fundraiser at a Rosenwald school. The Senate then confirmed a quorum, and the Majority Leader moved that the Senate stand in recess until Monday, March 2 at 8:00 p.m., which was adopted without objection.

Transcript Highlights:

• Senator from uh the 45th. Oh, yes. Senator from uh the 45th.
• Senator Hedelman, >> Senate bill 988.
• Senator from the County delegation. Senator from the 45th.
• Senate welcome, please? Senate welcome, please?
• If so, the clerk will take the call. >> With 44 members in the chamber, accord being present, the Senate

Keywords: Senate streaming session for Wednesday, February 25, 2026, 960, senate, all

Summary: The Maryland Senate opened with an invocation by Reverend Dorene Robinson of Weman Memorial AM Church in Baltimore, followed by a quorum call showing 41 members present. The chamber then spent much of the session recognizing guests and visitors, including members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, the Morgan State Choir, the Winston Churchill High School varsity golf team, the Elijah Cummings Youth Program, students from several schools, faith leaders, and other community guests. Several senators also introduced personal guests and offered birthday recognitions, including Mrs. Eliza May Robinson and the Secretary of the Senate. On the legislative side, Senate Bill 988 on judicial facilities, stops, detention, and arrest limitation rules was introduced and referred to the Rules Committee. Bond initiatives were also read and referred to the Capital Budget Subcommittee. The chamber took up Senate Bill 108 on wetlands enforcement, but the minority leader said members still had questions, and the bill was special ordered until Friday without objection. The Senate also adopted a congratulatory resolution honoring the Winston Churchill High School varsity golf team for winning the 2025 4A/3A Maryland State Golf Championship, including recognition of senior captain Zoe Kusak’s individual title. Another resolution congratulated Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, North Atlantic Region, for its advocacy and community service. The session ended after committee schedule announcements and a motion to adjourn until the next day, with the Senate agreeing to adjourn until Thursday, February 26 at 10 a.m.

Transcript Highlights:

• :02.640> Simonire, >> Senate Bill 123, Senator Simonire, >> Senate Bill 123, Senator
• McCrae, Senate Bill 461, Senator McCrae, Senate Bill 461, Senator McCrae, Supplemental<00:14:
• :50.160> Henen, >> Senate Bill 298, Senator Henen, >> Senate Bill 298, Senator Henen
• Senate Bill 225, Senator M.
• "With 44 members in the chamber, a quorum being present, Senator Maryland remains in session recognizing

Keywords: Senate streaming session for Tuesday, February 24, 2026, 960, senate, all

Summary: The Senate convened with an invocation by Reverend Jod Gun, whose prayer was journalized by unanimous consent. The chamber then recognized several guests, including representatives from the National Alliance on Mental Illness, who were present for a resolution honoring Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week, as well as former Delegate and physician Dan Moheim, Towson University students, a veteran guest, and parents and young children visiting for Maryland Family Network’s Day in Annapolis. The Senate adopted a resolution recognizing the National Alliance on Mental Illness for its advocacy on tardive dyskinesia screening, early detection, and treatment, and designated May 5–9 as Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week. The resolution was read and adopted without objection. The chamber also unanimously welcomed the guest groups and thanked them for their service and advocacy. In second-reader action, the Senate advanced several bills with committee amendments adopted without objection. Senate Bill 113, the Longevity Ready Maryland Act, was amended to refine aging-related planning, website reporting, and Commission on Aging membership, then ordered to third reading. Senate Bill 123 updated the membership of the Oversight Committee on Quality of Care in nursing homes and assisted living facilities and was also sent to third reading. Senate Bill 336 extended the Task Force on the Responsible Use of Natural Psychedelic Substances for one year and added an HBCU representative. Senate Bill 394 expanded expedited partner therapy to bacterial vaginosis and added licensed certified midwives as authorized practitioners. Senate Bill 444 changed certificate-of-need requirements for certain intermediate care facilities, and Senate Bill 461 conformed the SNAP Heat and Eat Program to federal eligibility rules; both were advanced to third reading. The Education, Energy, and the Environment Committee then took up Senate Bill 108, which would authorize the Maryland Department of the Environment to impose administrative penalties for certain water, wetlands, dam, and riparian-rights violations and expand administrative enforcement tools. Several senators raised concerns about the scope of the bill, its effect on shoreline restoration, dams, stormwater and wetlands enforcement, and whether it could allow penalties without adequate process or encourage payment instead of correction. The floor leader responded that the amendment requires notice, an informal meeting, and consideration of good-faith efforts before penalties are imposed in certain cases, and said the bill does not change permit requirements. The debate continued as members sought clarification on how the bill would apply to private dams, HOAs, farmers, and shoreline projects.

Transcript Highlights:

• Go ahead and call the Senate to order. Sergeant, please secure the chamber doors.
• President. >> All right, senators. On this, uh, not as >> All right, senators.
• With 42 members of the chamber present, the Senate remains in session recognizing the Majority Leader
• I move the Senate of Maryland stand adjourned until Tuesday, February 24th, at 10:00 a.m. chamber, the
• Senate Maryland remains in chamber, the Senate Maryland remains in session<00:20:14.400> recognizing

Keywords: Senate streaming session for Monday, February 23, 2026, 960, senate, all

Summary: The Maryland Senate convened on February 23, 2026, with an invocation by Reverend David Drake of the Church of Resurrection in Timonium, introduced by the senator from District 11. The chamber also recognized Denise Henderson Hector for 50 years as a licensed mortician and director at Recent Sons Mortuary in Annapolis, honoring her as a trailblazer and community leader during Black History Month. The Senate then welcomed several student pages, a guest from District 25, and Dr. Sarah Merritt, the doctor of the day. The Senate devoted a lengthy portion of the session to honoring fallen service members. Members presented tributes to Staff Sergeant Jared Allen Fenry, Specialist Jacob Mullen, Petty Officer First Class Dakota Brown Cullison, and Private First Class Devon Moore, describing their military service, community involvement, and family lives. The chamber then observed taps and a moment of silence, and members noted that the families present were deeply appreciated. The remarks were journalized for the record. After the memorial presentations, the Senate moved to routine business. It considered the introduction of Senate Bill 984 on correctional services and private immigration detention facilities, referred to the Rules Committee, and a bond initiative for Elton Flood Mitigation Management, referred to the Capital Budget Subcommittee. House Bill 146 on on-site wastewater systems, inspection and pumping requirements, and implementation dates was also read and referred to the appropriate standing committee. The Senate left the third reading calendar for the next day, announced caucus meetings for both parties on February 24, and adjourned until Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.

Keywords: Senate streaming session for Friday, February 20, 2026, 960, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Today, as the Senate convenes, may this chamber itself be such a space.
• 01:32.880> this<00:01:33.119> chamber the Senate convenes, may this chamber the Senate
• Today, I'm pleased to welcome the members of the Maryland Pharmacy Coalition to the Senate Chambers as
• Today, I'm pleased to welcome the members of the Maryland Pharmacy Coalition to the Senate Chambers as
• <00:08:32.800> us<00:08:33.039> for Senate Chambers as they join us for Senate Chambers

Keywords: Senate streaming session for Thursday, February 19, 2026, 960, senate, all

Summary: The Maryland Senate convened with an invocation by Rabbi David Hland, followed by a series of introductions and recognitions for visiting groups and guests, including Delta Sigma Theta members for Delta Day in Annapolis, Towson High School students, the Maryland Pharmacy Coalition, interns, and other visitors. The Senate adopted a resolution honoring Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated Maryland chapters for service, scholarship, sisterhood, and social action, and also journalized the rabbi’s invocation. Several committee and delegation announcements were made, including upcoming bill hearings and voting sessions. On legislation, the chamber handled a number of special-order and third-reading bills. Senate Bill 56 and Senate Bill 99 were both delayed for further amendment work, with SB 99 ultimately amended and ordered printed for third reading. The Senate also received and referred a bond initiative and heard an executive nominations report, with the nominations set for consideration in open session at a later time. During third reading, the Senate passed numerous bills, including measures on mail and service animal program disqualifications, police promotion pay restrictions, counterfeit lease penalties, Motor Vehicle Administration identification card requirements, environmental health specialist board sunset extension, used vehicle bill of sale requirements, collective bargaining for ATC cannabis police officers, transfer-on-death designations for vehicles and vessels, heavy-weight port corridor permits, controllable electronic records, lead paint abatement bonding and insurance, civic excellence in public schools, child pornography penalties, cemetery sale/transfer requirements, tobacco licenses for electronic smoking devices, legal services board membership, Baltimore County Public Library supervisory bargaining, money transmitter definitions, scalp cooling insurance coverage, prosthesis and orthosis coverage, elevator inspection database access, tax increment financing in noncontiguous areas, professional liability disclosure for certain care facilities and midwives, immunity for donation of pet supplies, massage therapy board revisions, and others. One bill drew floor debate: Senate Bill 82, which would increase penalties for counterfeit lease of real property, was opposed by a senator who argued it would disproportionately impact renters and conflict with justice reform goals. Despite that objection, the bill passed. The Senate also changed one recorded vote on Senate Bill 252 from red to green by unanimous consent. Overall, the session was marked by routine passage of a large slate of bills, a few postponements for amendment negotiation, and several ceremonial recognitions and announcements.

Transcript Highlights:

• All right, with 39 members in the chamber and a quorum being present, the Senate of Maryland is again
• and a quorum being present, the chamber and a quorum being present, the Senate<00:03:16.879> of
• Senator from McGomery County. Senator from McGomery County.
• Senator Sing income tax >> Senate bill 961.
• With 43 members in the chamber and according being present, the Senate of Maryland remains in session

Keywords: Senate streaming session for Wednesday, February 18, 2026, 960, senate, all

Summary: The Maryland Senate met on Ash Wednesday, February 18, 2026, with a quorum present. The session opened with an invocation by Chaplain David Stadler, followed by journalization of his remarks and several introductions recognizing guests in the chamber, including dentists, an intern, a former legislative staffer, and representatives from the University System of Maryland and other groups. Senators also noted upcoming committee meetings and a Legislative Black Caucus photo the next day. The main floor action centered on a resolution honoring Maryland Career and Technical Student Organizations for Career and Technical Student Organization Week. The sponsor described the role of CTSOs in serving more than 12,000 students statewide and in building leadership, professional, and career skills. The resolution was read in full and adopted unanimously, with the Senate expressing congratulations and appreciation for the organizations’ work with young people. The Senate then took up layover items and calendar bills. Senate Bill 56, concerning Maryland Longitudinal Data Center external data sharing for multi-state reporting, was special ordered for one day after members raised privacy-related questions. Senate Bill 99, the Open Meetings Act/Local Board of Education Transparency Act measure, was also special ordered for one day after discussion of its committee amendment. The chamber also received administrative corrections from the Governor and referred them to the Executive Nominations Committee, and the majority leader later moved adjournment until February 19 at 10:00 a.m., which was adopted without objection.

Transcript Highlights:

• With 39 members of the chamber and a quorum being present, the Senate of Maryland is again back
• Senator Simonire, State >> Senate Bill 46.
• :48.880> Jackson, >> Senate Bill 293, Senator Jackson, >> Senate Bill 293, Senator
• Senator McCrae, >> Senate bill 287.
• With 39 members in the chamber and a quorum being present, the Senate of Maryland remains in session,

Keywords: Senate streaming session for Tuesday, February 17, 2026, 960, senate, all

Summary: The Senate convened with an invocation, quorum call, and several introductions recognizing guests, including Reverend Jennifer Carsner and her daughter, President Kirk Schmoke, representatives from Maryland independent colleges and universities, students from Stevenson University, Howard and Anne Arundel counties, Washington College, a constituent, and the Greater Washington, D.C.-Maryland chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. The chamber also adopted a resolution honoring Damatha Catholic High School for winning the 2025 WCAC football championship and another recognizing the Greater Bethesda Chamber of Commerce on its 100th anniversary. Both resolutions were adopted unanimously after brief remarks and roll calls. The Senate then took up executive nominations, separating nominee 16 from the main report. The chamber voted 42 in favor on the remaining nominations and then 42 in favor on nominee 16, giving all nominees the Senate’s advice and consent. On third reading, the Senate passed several bills, including SB 46, SB 25, SB 58, SB 163, SB 170, SB 188, SB 247, SB 356, and SB 379, with recorded affirmative votes ranging from 36 to 42. These measures covered topics such as veterans cemeteries, tax credits and tax modifications, education funding, transportation revenue bonds, biotechnology incentives, a stillborn child tax credit, and recovery residence grant funding. The chamber also advanced numerous second-reading bills, generally adopting committee reports and amendments without objection. Among the measures discussed were collective bargaining for Alcohol, Tobacco, and Cannabis Commission police officers; adoption of the 2022 Uniform Commercial Code amendments for controllable electronic records; cemetery sale and transfer oversight; an additional license for electronic smoking devices; collective bargaining for Baltimore County Public Library supervisory employees; payroll processor exemptions under the Money Transmission Act; scalp cooling coverage for chemotherapy patients; orthoses and prostheses coverage under health and Medicaid plans; an online database of elevator inspection certificates; service animal program disqualification standards; extension of the State Board of Environmental Health Specialists; disclosure of lapsed professional liability insurance for nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and nurse midwives; and revisions to massage therapy licensure rules. Most reports were favorable, with several technical or substantive amendments adopted and bills ordered printed for third reading. A notable policy discussion occurred on SB 56, which would allow the Maryland Longitudinal Data System Center to share individual-level student and workforce data with a third-party data center for multi-state reporting. The sponsor explained the bill as a way to compare Maryland outcomes with other states while using data-sharing agreements and oversight to protect privacy; a minority whip raised concerns about the type of third-party data center and whether the practice was new. The sponsor said the bill was intended to formalize and safeguard data sharing, and noted a technical amendment would be offered to correct the amendment language.

Keywords: Senate streaming session for Monday, February 16, 2026, 960, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Uh, we have a presentation from our state archivist in the old Senate chamber.
• Um and so that the old senate chamber.
• So we'll hold on these so that way we can get moving to the old Senate chamber.
• to the old Senate chamber in five minutes. >> Five minutes.
• [laughter] >> I move that the Senate of Maryland stand in recess to the old Senate chambers in about

Keywords: Senate streaming session for Monday, February 16, 2026, 960, senate, all

Summary: The Senate convened with 33 members present, heard an invocation from Reverend Lauren Holder of St. Martins in the Field Episcopal Church, and received several chamber introductions and welcomes, including district-night guests, former Delegate Sam Aurora, League of Conservation Voters constituents, and a new group of pages from across the state. The presiding officer also noted that a presentation by the state archivist in the old Senate chamber would be the main event of the evening. On the legislative side, the chamber read Senate Bill 960 on Maryland’s Public Charter School Program and school facilities funding rules, which was referred to the Rules Committee. Two bond initiatives were also read and sent to the Capital Budget Subcommittee: one for Carol Classical Charter School and one for Springboard Community Services’ Youth and Training Center. House Bills 28 and 226 were received from the House and referred to the appropriate standing committees. The Senate then announced that executive nominations would likely be held until the next day so more members could be present for votes. Caucus meetings were announced for the following morning, and a Senate Pass event was promoted for Thursday evening. After a quorum call showed 38 members present, the majority leader moved that the Senate recess to the old Senate chamber in about five minutes, and the motion was adopted without objection. The chamber was secured as members prepared to move for the evening program.

Keywords: Senate streaming session for Friday, February 13, 2026, 960, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• With 39 members in the chamber and a quorum being present, the Senate is again back in session.
• :05.599> Bidel, >> Senate bill 247, Senator Bidel, >> Senate bill 247, Senator Bidel
• > Wald<00:41:58.960> Striker Senate Bill 356, Senator Wald Striker Senate Bill 356, Senator
• With 41 members in the chamber and a quorum being present, the Senate of Maryland remains in session.
• Augustine, Senate Bill 186, Senator Augustine, Senate Bill 186, Senator Augustine, state<00:55

Keywords: Senate streaming session for Thursday, February 12, 2026, 960, senate, all

Summary: The Senate convened with 39 members present, heard the invocation from Reverend Meredith West, and journalized her remarks. The chamber then recognized several guest groups and observances, including Omega Psi Phi Fraternity’s Second District Corridor 1 for “100 Q’s in Annapolis Day,” the Kent Island High School boys lacrosse team for winning the Maryland 2A state championship, Arts Day participants, Rural Maryland Council members, Maryland Affordable Housing Coalition advocates, and visitors from the Maryland Judiciary. Senators also spoke about the meaning of Kente cloth during Black History Month, and the chamber recognized a birthday and thanked protocol staff for Valentine’s Day decorations. The Senate’s featured presentation was the annual Lincoln Day speech by the Senator from the 37th District. The senator reflected on Abraham Lincoln’s life, political career, and moral leadership, emphasizing his self-education, opposition to the expansion of slavery, the Emancipation Proclamation, Gettysburg, and the idea that the nation’s founding principles of liberty and equality guided Lincoln through the Civil War. The minority leader praised the address, and the Senate agreed without objection to journalize the remarks. After the ceremonial portion, the Senate moved to business. Bond initiatives on the calendar were read and referred to the Capital Budget Subcommittee. The Executive Nominations Committee reported favorably on a list of recess appointees, including gubernatorial secretaries, district court judges, and a state board appointee, and the report was special ordered to Monday, February 16, 2026. The chamber then began second-reader consideration of Budget and Taxation bills: Senate Bill 25, altering the cyber security technology and service tax credit, was amended and ordered printed for third reading; Senate Bill 58, creating a property tax credit for retail service station conversions, was discussed with questions about who would receive the credit and why the incentive was needed, and consideration was ongoing when the transcript ended.

Transcript Highlights:

• With 40 members in the chamber and a quorum being present, the Senate of Maryland is now back again in
• Senator from the 30th district. Uh, yes. Senator from the 30th district.
• With 40 senators in the chamber and according being present, the Senate of Maryland remains in session
• <00:14:03.199> chamber<00:14:03.519> and With 40 senators in the chamber and With 40
• senators in the chamber and according<00:14:03.839> being<00:14:04.000> present,<00:14

Keywords: Senate streaming session for Wednesday, February 11, 2026, 960, senate, all

Summary: The Senate convened with a quorum present, heard an invocation from Rabbi Deborah Wexler of Pikesville, and journalized the prayer without objection. The chamber also recognized several visitor groups, including Maryland Realtors Day, Maryland March for Change participants advocating for infant and maternal health, and students, faculty, and staff from Avalon School. Senators briefly highlighted upcoming committee meetings and caucus events, including a Legislative Black Caucus press conference, Aviation Day, and a reminder about protocol dues. On legislation, the chamber read Senate Bill 955 on real property, condominiums, and homeowners association election rules and referred it to the Rules Committee. Two Senate bond initiatives were also read and sent to the Capital Budget Subcommittee. Senate Bill 888 was announced as reassigned to the Rules Committee. The main floor action centered on Senate Bill 46 concerning state veteran cemeteries, where Senator Simon offered a floor amendment. Senator from District 7 explained the bill was prompted by concerns about how caskets are moved at veteran cemeteries, describing a practice he found disturbing and saying the issue should be addressed separately from the bill. The amendment and the amended report were both adopted without objection, and the bill was ordered printed for third reading. The Senate then handled a brief procedural exchange when a senator asked about speaking on the reassigned bill, and the presiding officer ruled the matter out of order because it had already been reassigned. After additional committee announcements, the Senate remained in session with 40 members present and then moved to recess until noon in the House chamber.

Transcript Highlights:

• With 42 members in the chamber and a quorum being present, the Senate of Maryland is again in session
• Senate Bill 260, Senator C.
• Senate. Senate.
• With 44 members in the chamber and a quorum being present, the Senate of Maryland remains in session.
• With 45 members in the chamber and a quorum being present, the Senate of Maryland remains in session.

Keywords: Senate streaming session for Tuesday, February 10, 2026, 960, senate, all

Summary: The Senate convened with an invocation, confirmed a quorum, and welcomed several guests and groups, including Maryland Library Association members, Stephen Decatur High School’s boys soccer team, Clarksburg High School’s girls flag football team, NAMI representatives, Baltimore Promise, local soil conservation district representatives, and a 911 center leader. The chamber also journalized the invocation and prepared for the Governor’s upcoming State of the State address by exchanging messages with the House and appointing Senate members to escort the Governor and Lieutenant Governor. The body then took up a series of Finance Committee bills, most of them receiving favorable reports and being ordered to third reading without objection. Measures discussed included SB 14 on small business health insurance SHOP enrollment effective dates; SB 22 on Department of Disabilities housing programs and affiliated foundations; SB 134 on Medicare supplement policy enrollment periods; SB 139 on third-party administrator enforcement; SB 199 on the Individuals with Disabilities and Service-Disabled Veterans Voting Fund; SB 205 codifying federal mental health parity requirements; SB 216 on unemployment insurance confidentiality; SB 43 on the Maryland Community Investment Venture Fund; SB 46 on state veterans cemeteries interment provisions; and SB 226 on the Maryland Heritage Area Authority. Several bills had brief amendments or procedural issues. SB 22 received a technical amendment changing “Attorney General” to “Office of the Attorney General.” SB 199 received an amendment adding a co-sponsor, and SB 46 was briefly set to lie over under the rule after a senator requested time to review a technical clarification. The chamber also received House Bill 1, which was referred to committee, and SB 624 was reassigned to the Education, Energy, and the Environment Committee. Most committee reports were adopted unanimously or without objection, and the Senate repeatedly congratulated the honored school teams and library advocates.

Transcript Highlights:

• With 41 members in the chamber and a quorum being present, the Senate of Maryland is again back in session
• >> Senate Bill 773, Senator Augustine, >> Senate Bill 773, Senator Augustine, Health<00:18
• Clerk read the bond initiatives. number four, Senate Senator A. number four, Senate Senator A.
• Uh, with 44 members in the chamber and a quorum being present, the Senate of Maryland remains in session
• being uh present, chamber and a quorum being uh present, the<00:32:02.000> Senate<00:32:02.240

Keywords: Senate streaming session for Monday, February 9, 2026, 960, senate, all

Summary: The Maryland Senate convened with a quorum present, opened with an invocation by the Reverend Mihi Kim Court of First Presbyterian Church in Annapolis, and received remarks praising her social justice work and support for the LGBTQ community. The chamber also welcomed several visiting groups, including the Poolsville Town Council, the Maryland Commission on Women, Citizens for a Cleaner County, BUILD, District 37 visitors, and child care advocates participating in an “Evening in Annapolis for Child Care.” The Senate also introduced its weekly pages from schools across the state. Before moving to legislation, senators briefly discussed Senate rules and quorum procedures, including whether the 2025 rules govern the 2026 session and how presence and voting work during a protest. The presiding officer confirmed that the 2025 rules remain in effect, that physical presence counts for voting, and that senators present may vote when called. The chamber then referred a large batch of newly introduced measures to standing committees, including bills on artificial intelligence in education, pharmacist vaccine orders, parole commission matters, lead risk reduction, solar and energy storage policy, and several joint resolutions and bond initiatives. The Senate also noted that 234 bills had been introduced that day, bringing the total to Senate Bill 954, and thanked the Senate staff and Department of Legislative Services for their work. Later, the body heard a Black History Month presentation from the senator from Baltimore City and Baltimore County highlighting the importance of historical memory and honoring figures such as Pauli Murray, Ella Baker, and Fannie Lou Hamer, with detailed remarks on their activism and contributions. The remarks were journalized, and the Senate adjourned without objection until Tuesday, February 10 at 10 a.m.

Transcript Highlights:

• Clerk will read the bills. >> Senate Bill 643. Senator Bailey.
• Clerk will read the bills. >> Senate Bill 680. Senator West.
• Uh, next is Senate bond initiatives, calendar 14.
• Uh, the Senate of Maryland remains in session.
• > remains<00:03:17.360> in the senator of Maryland remains in the senator of Maryland remains

Keywords: Senate streaming session for Friday, February 6, 2026, 960, senate, all

Summary: The Senate met in a brief pro forma session with a quorum call and the clerk calling the roll. The chamber considered the reading of the prior day’s journal and then introduced two bills: Senate Bill 643 by Senator Bailey, concerning natural resources, hunting, management, education, energy, and the environment, and Senate Bill 680 by Senator West, concerning intercepted communications penalty and judicial proceedings. Both bills were ordered read and referred to the appropriate standing committees. The Senate also took up Senate bond initiatives, including one for the American Legion Cook Pinkney Post 141, which was referred to the capital budget subcommittee. The presiding officer noted the approaching Monday deadline for bill introductions and commented on the growing number of measures filed. The session included remarks thanking the pages for their service and encouraging them to share their experience and apply again in the future. No substantive debate or votes on legislation occurred. The Senate then agreed to a motion to recess until Monday, February 9th at 8:00 p.m.

Transcript Highlights:

• Senator Kazone, human >> Senate bill 585.
• Senator Sidnor, Voting >> Senate bill 255.
• With 44 members in the chamber and a quorum being present, the Senate of Maryland remains in session.
• Senator from Howard. Senator from Howard.
• With 43 members in the chamber and a quorum being present, the Senate of Maryland remains in session.

Keywords: Senate streaming session for Thursday, February 5, 2026, 960, senate, all

Summary: The Senate convened with a quorum, heard an invocation from Reverend Carissa Serber, and journalized her remarks. Members then welcomed several guests and groups in the gallery, including Maryland Community Action Partnership advocates, Cecil College students and Dr. Mary Bolt, Cecil County Executive Adam Strait, the Maryland Association of Justice, Faith Baptist School students, and several interns and staff members. The chamber also introduced Senate Bill 585 and a bond initiative for the Active Achievers Youth Center, both of which were referred to the appropriate committees or subcommittees. The main floor debate centered on Senate Bill 255, the Voting Rights Act of 2026 for counties and municipal corporations. Senators questioned the bill’s scope, especially whether it would affect county commissioner election methods, who could bring suit, what “vote dilution” means, and whether the measure was tied to district maps or candidate filings. The sponsor explained that the bill creates a state framework for the federal Voting Rights Act, provides standing rather than a remedy, and applies when a protected class believes its vote has been diluted; political party was said not to be a protected class. The committee amendment was adopted without objection, and the amended bill was ordered printed for third reading. On third reading, Senate Bill 5 and Senate Bill 29 passed with constitutional majorities. Senate Bill 93 also passed. Senate Bill 141, dealing with election misinformation, disinformation, and deep fakes, was moved back to second reader for a technical amendment and then special ordered to Tuesday. The Senate also held a lighthearted recorded vote on Seahawks versus Patriots, with the Seahawks winning 28 to 8, and then received committee scheduling announcements for upcoming hearings and voting sessions.

Transcript Highlights:

• The Senate to order. Looks like we have the Senate to order.
• Senate Bill 520, Senator Kramer, property tax, charter counties, application of county tax limitations
• Clerk will read the bills. >> Senate Bill 570.
• Uh, let's go to Senate bond initiatives calendar 12.
• :01:39.840> Aaron's >> Number one, Senator Hershey Aaron's >> Number one, Senator

Keywords: Senate streaming session for Wednesday, February 4, 2026, 960, senate, all

Summary: The Senate convened in a pro forma session, called the roll, and noted that the chamber doors had been secured. Members exchanged brief announcements, including birthday wishes for Senator Feldman, and the body proceeded through routine calendar items. Senate Bill 520, concerning property tax limits in charter counties and public safety budget taxation, and Senate Bill 570, relating to baby food testing and the definition of baby food, were read and referred to their appropriate standing committees. The Senate also considered a bond initiative for Senator Hershey’s Aaron’s Place Food Hub and Innovation Campus, which was referred to the capital budget subcommittee. On the House side, House Bill 444, prohibiting certain immigration enforcement agreements in judicial proceedings, was referred to the appropriate standing committee, and House Bill 488, dealing with election districts and representation in Congress, was sent to the rules committee. After a quorum call confirmed three members present and that the Senate remained in session, the majority leader moved to adjourn. The Senate adjourned without objection until Thursday, February 5th at 10:00 a.m.

Transcript Highlights:

• The Senate will come to order. Sergeant at Arms will please secure the chamber doors.
• With 43 members in the chamber and a quorum being present, the Senate of Maryland is again back in session
• Senate Bill 29. Senator Kagan.
• Hester, Senate Bill 141, Senator Hester, Senate Bill 141, Senator Hester, election<01:20:45.760
• With 42 members in the chamber being present, the Senate of Maryland remains in session.

Keywords: Senate streaming session for Tuesday, February 3, 2026, 960, senate, all

Summary: The Senate opened with an invocation by Reverend Dr. Patrick Claybourne of Bethl AM Church in Baltimore, introduced by the senator from the 40th district, who highlighted the church’s long history, community work, scholarships, food pantry, school partnerships, and a planned rise center. The Senate journalized the invocation and then recognized several guests, including the Bethesda Roosters U16 rugby team, which was congratulated for winning the Maryland state title and the 2025 National U16 Championship, and members of the Joint Veterans Committee of Maryland. The chamber also welcomed a Johns Hopkins Police Accountability Board appointment letter, which was referred to the Executive Nominations Committee, and later a delegation from the Ghana Parliament legislative staff visiting with the Department of Legislative Services and NCSL representatives. The main floor business centered on Senate Bill 1, which would prohibit law enforcement officers from wearing face coverings. The minority whip argued against the bill, saying it was unenforceable, an improper use of legislative time amid other state crises, and could create a system where local officers detain federal officers for a civil violation; he also said officers mask themselves because of threats and doxxing. Senators in support argued the bill was needed to address masked ICE agents, protect public safety, and respond to concerns about civil rights abuses and intimidation. After debate and vote explanations from senators, including one emphasizing immigrant heritage and another supporting the bill as a protection measure, SB 1 passed with 31 affirmative votes. The Senate then passed Senate Bill 17, an emergency bill on alcoholic beverages related event promoters permits, by unanimous affirmative vote. It next took up Senate Bill 245, an emergency bill prohibiting immigration enforcement agreements. The minority leader questioned whether the bill would eliminate formalized 287(g) agreements and replace them with county-by-county policies, arguing that this could reduce uniformity, weaken safety, and create a patchwork of local practices. The bill’s sponsor responded that counties would still be bound by constitutional and legal limits, that the agreements provide minimal training and resources, and that the state should stop formally cooperating with federal immigration enforcement. The sponsor also said the bill would not increase profiling and that public safety would remain intact. The debate continued with concerns about Montgomery County’s evolving policy and the impact on smaller counties, but the transcript ends before final action on SB 245.

Transcript Highlights:

• All right, senators.
• Thank you, Senator.
• With 39 members in the chamber and a quorum being present, the Senate of Maryland is again in session
• Senate Bill 444. Senator Kramer.
• With 40 members in the chamber and a quorum being present, the Senate of Maryland remains in session.

Keywords: Senate streaming session for Monday, February 2, 2026, 960, senate, all

Summary: The Senate was called to order on February 2, 2026, with a quorum present. The session opened with an invocation by Rabbi Andrew Bush of Baltimore Hebrew Congregation, who reflected on Tu Bishvat, the 200th anniversary of Maryland’s 1826 legislation granting Jews the right to hold office, and broader lessons about language, imperfect solutions, persistence, and acting for others. His prayer was journalized without objection. The chamber also heard brief remarks recognizing his interfaith work and the significance of Tu Bishvat as an ecological holiday. The Senate then honored Maryland History Day participants and awardees. Students from several schools were introduced and congratulated as finalists in the 2025 National History Day competition, and the chamber adopted a resolution recognizing them. The Senate also recognized Lindsay Matthews of Eastern Middle School as the 2025 Maryland History Day Middle School Teacher of the Year and Sam Mowski of Loyola Blakefield as the 2025 National History Day High School Teacher of the Year, with resolutions adopted for both. Additional introductions included the doctor of the day, several Senate pages, and a personal recognition of Jasmine Miller, a Baltimore Polytechnic student and the niece of a senator. On the legislative calendar, the clerk read Senate Bill 444, Senator Kramer’s bill on certificate of need for intermediate healthcare facilities finance, and a bond initiative for Charles Mount Elementary School sponsored by Senator Sing. These items were ordered to the appropriate committees/subcommittee. No committee reports or substantive floor votes were taken beyond the ceremonial resolutions. The Senate also announced upcoming caucus meetings, reminded members to pay protocol dues, confirmed a quorum of 40 members, and adjourned until Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.